The femme Journal
Endo-friendly smoothie - approved by femme nutritionists
Elevated inflammation has been identified as a driver of endometriosis and wider immune dysfunction also seems to be involved. Check out this Breakfast Smoothie that is endo friendly! Written by Julie Gough What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This tissue, known as endometrial implants, can be found on organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. During the menstrual cycle, these implants respond to hormonal changes, causing inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue. Check out this recipe by our Nutritionist, Julie Gough, that has been designed to help nourish the body and support the immune system and reduce the inflammatory response. The typical anti-inflammatory diet emphasises fruits, vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds and healthy fats and restricts processed foods, sugar, dairy and gluten. BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE Serves 1: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed 1 tbsp almond butter 1 tsp maca powder 1 tbsp protein powder (wild berry or vanilla) 250ml coconut milk 2 handfuls spinach 1 ripe kiwi fruit, peeled Method: Place all ingredients into a cup blender. Blend until smooth. Best eaten straight away however the ingredients can be packed together the night before for a quick blend in the morning.
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Celebrating Women's History Month
As March unfolds, so does a vibrant celebration of resilience, courage, and achievement — Women's History Month. It's a time to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of women throughout history and their ongoing journey towards equality and empowerment. This annual observance provides a poignant opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of women's experiences, from the unsung heroines who shaped communities to the iconic figures who defied norms and shattered glass ceilings. Across the globe, women have left an indelible mark in every sphere of human endeavour. From science, literature, and politics to art, business, and social activism, their influence knows no bounds. Yet, too often, their stories have been relegated to the footnotes of history. Women's History Month serves as a powerful corrective, amplifying their voices and illuminating their legacies. We celebrate visionaries like Marie Curie, whose ground-breaking research in radioactivity earned her two Nobel Prizes, or Rosa Parks, whose act of defiance catalysed the civil rights movement. We honour the resilience of Malala Yousafzai, who continues to advocate for girls' education despite facing adversity, and the tenacity of Amelia Earhart, whose pioneering flights inspired generations of aviators. But Women's History Month is not only about commemorating the past; it's also about galvanising action in the present. It's a call to address persistent inequities and dismantle barriers that hinder women's progress. It's about fostering an inclusive society where every woman and girl can thrive, irrespective of their background or circumstances. In today's world, we see women leading businesses, commanding armies, and spearheading social movements. Yet, we also recognise the unfinished work ahead. Gender disparities persist in areas such as pay equity, representation in leadership roles, and access to healthcare and education. Women continue to face discrimination, violence, and systemic injustices. As we honour the achievements of women past and present, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of gender equality. Let us amplify women's voices, challenge stereotypes, and create pathways for advancement. Let us support initiatives that promote women's empowerment and ensure that every girl grows up in a world where her dreams are limitless. This Women's History Month, let's celebrate the courage, resilience, and achievements of women around the world. Let's honour their contributions, learn from their stories, and work together to build a future where gender equality is not just a dream but a reality. After all, when women succeed, societies prosper, and humanity thrives.
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The link between mood and food.
This blog discusses how different types of food can affect our mood and well-being. It highlights the link between what we eat and how we feel, noting that processed and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta can leave us feeling bloated and low. On the other hand, certain foods can improve our mood by affecting the neurotransmitters in our brain. The key takeaway is the importance of consuming the right nutrients to maintain balanced neurotransmitters and stabilise blood sugar levels, which can positively impact mood. Written by Julie Gough Our bodies respond differently to types of foods in different ways. There is link between what we eat and how we feel. Some foods including processed and refined carbohydrate like white breads and pasta can leave us feeling bloated and also making us feel low; others can actually improve our mood. This is because what we eat can affect the neurotransmitters the brain produces and therefore how we feel. We must feed our brains the right nutrients to produce balanced neurotransmitters to boost our mood. Our blood sugar also impacts our mood, foods high in sugar can cause a sudden increase in blood sugars this is then followed by a quick crash when our body clears the sugar, these sugar lows can impact our mood making us feel low Good Mood Foods Omega-3 and omega-6 fats are found in oily fish (e.g. wild salmon, sardines, trout and mackerel) raw nuts and unsalted nuts and seeds. These fats have been well researched for brain health having a critical role in the structure and function of the brain and therefore can impact mood. The body cannot make these fats, so must be part of the daily diet. Aim to include oily fish in your diet 2-3 times a week and have a handful of nuts and seeds daily as a snack. If you don`t like oily fish then you could take an omega 3 supplement. These contain fibre that can slow down the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream and stabilise blood sugar levels. Complex carbs also contain B vitamins, magnesium and zinc, which are brain-boosting nutrients. Complex carbs include: oats, beans, brown rice, rye bread, pluses and vegetables. This is vital for good brain health and increase release of mood boosting chemicals in the brain as well as helping to maintain blood sugar levels. Aim to include protein into every meal. Good sources include eggs, poultry, seafood, tofu, fish, beans nuts and seeds This is an amino acid (amino acids are the building blocks of protein) which our body converts into serotonin our ‘feel good’ hormone. Foods to include: peanuts, turkey, salmon and eggs. To boost your mood, include these foods in your diet daily. Bad Mood Foods White breads, pasta, cakes, chocolate, fizzy drinks and many high sugar breakfast cereals can cause blood sugar fluctuations increasing the feelings of anxiety leading to a low mood. Too much alcohol and caffeine too frequently can trigger the brain into producing hormones that may increase the feelings of stress and anxiety. Alcohol can also reduce serotonin the “feel good” hormone Found in meat, dairy products and also hydrogenated fats found in processed foods can compete with our good fats blocking them out impacting our mood. They can give you side effects including mood swings, headaches and dizziness. In addition heavy metals can be found in some foods including lead and mercury, which can impact brain health Our gut bacteria play a huge role in our mood and happiness, many factors play a role in producing the gut microbiome including diet, environment, season and health status. When the human microbiome is challenged with changes in diet, stress or antibiotics the physiology of the microbiome changes. The gut microbiome can regulate emotions and 90% of our serotonin (“feel good hormone”) are located in the gut and the most common pharmacological treatment for mood disorders are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which have gastrointestinal side effects.
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Celebrating your story with Anna Hobson
Drawing from her background in culture and human behaviour, Anna Hobson found her purpose in life coaching after experiencing mental health challenges, including eating disorders and OCD, during a challenging transition in her early thirties. Read on to learn more about self-sabotage. Written by Anna Hobson Hi I’m Anna Hobson and I’m a certified coach with the European Mentoring Coaching Council since 2016 and I’m affiliated with the UK's Association of Executive Coaches. Drawing from my background in culture and human behavior, I found my purpose in life coaching following a challenging transition in my early thirties. Having personally experienced mental health challenges, including eating disorders and OCD, I understand the impact of the "be perfect" mindset on quality of life. I’m passionate about helping others navigate their inner dialogue and self-narrative, particularly empowering women to reach their full potential. "The worst bully you'll ever experience in life, is yourself." As the ‘self love’ movement continues to gain momentum, we can find ourselves in juxtaposition. Are you comfortable with ‘self love’? What exactly does ‘self love’ really mean? Why do I still beat myself up about what I’m not doing, and overlook everything I am doing?! Cut yourself a little bit of slack please! I don’t know about you, but I absolutely am my own worst critic; from the finest of details about my work, my appearance, my behaviours. I critique myself on such a micro level it’s exhausting. We are being encouraged more and more to be kind to ourselves, but for many of us, this isn’t an easy feat. Without wanting to pay lip service to it, the act and habit of self love (I prefer self compassion) takes practice. By just noticing one thing that feels good about yourself, one thing you did well today, or by holding the space that little bit longer in the mirror to really accept your beauty, matters. Warm up your inner dialogue and stop bullying yourself. "Are your people, really your people?" Our family and friends form our largest influence of social connections and are usually the most important relationships in our world. But what if I asked you to notice how you feel when you’ve spent time around them? Have you ever seen those little fridge magnets in your local garden centre with quotes like ‘Friends are the family we choose’? It’s little nudges like this that as I’ve got older, have got me thinking. In my own adult life, when I’ve experienced highs and really tough and challenging lows, if I reflect on those times and I’m honest with myself, the people I thought would always be there, weren’t always there. It’s a hard reality to face into and can feel really quite painful, but it can also equip you to protect your soul, your energy and importantly, your heart. Your people are the ones who should champion you, celebrate you, care for you, be curious about you and your life, show you compassion, accept you, acknowledge your growth – not criticise it…. So I ask you, are your people, really your people? "Today, I choose to wear my own hat!" I don’t know about you, but sometimes I feel as though the weeks fly by and whilst I have the bet intentions to squeeze every opportunity out of every day, I blink and another week has gone! There are many hats we wear; work hat, mum hat, wife hat, girlfriend hat, daughter hat, friend hat, chauffer hat, carer hat, chef hat, pet nanny hat, personal maid hat, fridge filler hat and so on… phew, that’s a LOT of hats and it’s nowhere near all of them. Question…. when do you take some properly selfish time to wear your own hat and show up for yourself? I suspect if you’re really honest, the answer will be rarely. Whatever that looks like, even if it’s a simple bubble bath, candles lit, with the door closed so you have some uninterrupted time, just for you. This is a call to action, for you to take some properly selfish time out. Show up for yourself today - the other hats can wait. I promise.
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International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Recognising the critical importance of women in the STEM sector, particularly in leadership roles, femme health emphasises the need for diversity and inclusion to drive innovation and address pressing healthcare challenges. By amplifying women's voices in senior STEM positions, fresh perspectives and insights are brought to the table, fostering creative problem-solving and influencing research agendas to prioritise issues like sustainability and socioeconomic pressures. As a female-led company with one of the only female managing directors in the IVD industry, we are really passionate about the importance of women in business, but particularly in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) sector. Including more women in senior STEM roles is critical for innovation. Bringing women to the table will lead to fresh ideas and perspectives, as well as encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving. Women’s perspectives will also shape the direction of research and strategic direction, as women tend to focus on different issues such as sustainability and socioeconomic pressures. Finally, including women in senior STEM roles may also help to close the gender health gap. The UK currently has the worst gender health gap in the G20 meaning that women receive poorer healthcare than men. This is mainly due to a lack of research into women’s health; for example, there is 5 times more money spent on erectile dysfunction (which affects 19% of men), than on premenstrual syndrome (which affects 90% of women). At femme health we are committed to working with brands who share our values and our hopes for the standard of reproductive care in the UK. Hear more from some of these brands on the importance of focusing on women’s health as well as promoting and nurturing women in STEM roles. Find out more about Proov Dr. Amy Beckley is the founder and CEO of Proov, and the inventor of the first and only FDA-cleared at-home PdG test to confirm successful ovulation. Amy has an MBA and a PhD in Pharmacology, and has studied hormone signalling for over 20 years. When Amy was trying to get pregnant, she suffered nearly seven miscarriages – and no test or doctor could explain why. She ultimately turned to IVF to have her son. It was only after she uncovered the source of her troubles – a problem with ovulation – that she successfully conceived, this time without the help of IVF. She then set out to create an accurate, effective diagnostic to empower women to test at home. Amy invented the PdG test in her basement, commercialised the original Proov technology through crowdfunding in 2016 and launched it officially in 2017. Now, Amy and Proov offer an array of at-home diagnostic tests and support to help women get pregnant faster. Proov's flagship product remains the PdG test, which is a way to understand if you have insufficient progesterone in your system. Amy calls it “successful ovulation” as opposed to just ovulation. What that means, is “ovulation” means producing an egg; successful ovulation means you produce an egg and have a healthy uterine environment because it saw enough of this hormone for long enough. Proov has a patented method that measures the implantation window. By measuring a hormone called PdG in urine 7 to 10 days after peak fertility, women find out if they have enough of this hormone for long enough to have the maximum chance of conception. For the UK customers whose PdG results are suboptimal, Proov has entered into a clinical partnership with Plan Your Baby. UK Proovers whose ovulation report shows low levels of PdG may choose to make an appointment online (for a fee) with a certified Plan Your Baby Fertility doctor who, after assessment of results may prescribe Progesterone supplementation. Just with a click, no need for in person visits, referrals or waiting lists. Shop for Proov Predict here We love Ovum OVUM felt the fertility industry takes advantage of women at what is arguably one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. Many of us would just about buy or try anything if we felt it improved our chances of conceiving. Jenny started OVUM when she began trying to conceive themselves and wanted clarity on what exactly they could be doing to improve their chances, from a medical and scientific perspective. No BS, no falling for the misleading advertising, no herbs and voodoo baby dances - they just wanted to know what they could be doing to genuinely help their chances whilst still keeping sane. The benefits for those taking these prenatal, conception and fertility supplements aren’t what they could or should be. Cheaper and less absorbable forms of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are used and often in lower, inefficient dosages where profit takes priority over efficacy. Once they’d done their homework it was clear that today’s prenatal, conception and fertility supplements fall short of what should be available as the new standard to all. For this very reason they will soon become a B Corp (certification pending), making OVUM a company that pledges to use business as a force for good. Certified B Corps are businesses that meet the highest possible standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. OVUM is vegan, not tested on animals and BPA and all plastics-free packaging. You can find out more here. At OVUM they’re about letting the research guide their Scientists and Fertility Doctors who in turn determine the formulation of our fertility supplement. So, with OVUM you can rest assured you’re benefiting from the latest findings and know you’re giving yourself the best possible chance of becoming pregnant. Shop for OVUM here Take charge with Biosure At BioSure they are passionate about their role in changing the perception of self-care and self-diagnostic testing. They do this by empowering you with world-leading products, so that you have increased choice, enabling you to take responsibility for your own testing and wellbeing, on your own terms, with confidence. Everything they do is designed and refined with your unique needs in mind so you can make your own informed choices with power and knowledge. BioSure Global develop, manufacture, source and distribute rapid tests with the highest levels of accuracy, many rivalling those of standard laboratory tests. Their rapid diagnostic and detection tests are invaluable tools where immediate results are the primary consideration. The tests that they manufacture and supply are used worldwide for the management of human infectious disease. BioSure Global specialise in providing solutions utilising rapid Point of Care Tests (POCT) and has unique expertise in self-testing. They passionately believe that this technology through integration into healthcare settings and for use as self-tests can revolutionise testing protocols, reduce late diagnoses, provide cost effective testing solutions for the general population and engage hard to reach key populations. Ultimately budgets can be spread further through far lower delivery costs and immediate diagnosis. BioSure Global has been recognised for its work in numerous awards: Winner in the national Barclays’ Entrepreneur Awards 2020, recognising entrepreneurs who are transforming their industries, the economy, and society. Our CEO Brigette Bard won a @Cofinitive #21ToWatch award, recognising innovation and entrepreneurship across the globe. BioSure made Start Up Of The Day on the Innovation Origins independent news platform in Europe for contributing to the world of innovation. Brigette Bard made the Maserati 100 Index 2019 – celebrating entrepreneurial excellence in the UK. 2018 Winners of Pitch@Palace 10.0 Shop for BioSURE AMH test here
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Decoding AMH: How Understanding Your Egg Reserve Can Help You TTC
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels are crucial for individuals navigating the emotional challenges of trying to conceive (TTC). AMH, produced by ovarian follicles, serves as a key marker for ovarian reserve, indicating the quantity of eggs in a woman's ovaries. Lower AMH levels may suggest a lower egg count, influencing the conception timeframe. Check this blog out to venture more into AMH. Written by Tracey Sainsbury Understanding Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels can be a pivotal step in managing the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive (TTC). This hormone, produced by ovarian follicles, serves as an essential marker for ovarian reserve, indicating the quantity of eggs remaining in a woman's ovaries. While TTC can bring joy and excitement, the uncertainty and stress surrounding fertility can often lead to anxiety. However, understanding and monitoring AMH levels can provide valuable insights and potentially alleviate some of that anxiety. Firstly, awareness of AMH levels offers a glimpse into a woman's ovarian reserve, giving an estimate of fertility potential. Lower AMH levels may indicate a lower egg count, potentially influencing the time frame and approach one might consider for conception. This understanding empowers individuals to make informed decisions and seek appropriate fertility assistance if needed, reducing the uncertainty surrounding conception. Secondly, tracking AMH levels can aid in planning. While not a definitive predictor of fertility or conception success, monitoring changes in AMH levels over time can help individuals and healthcare providers develop a more comprehensive fertility plan. This can include discussions about optimal timing for attempting conception, considering lifestyle changes, or exploring assisted reproductive technologies, all contributing to a more proactive approach to TTC. Additionally, understanding AMH levels can be reassuring. High levels of anxiety often stem from the unknown, especially in matters as sensitive as fertility. Having a clearer picture of ovarian reserve through AMH testing can alleviate some of the fear of the unknown, providing a tangible aspect of fertility to focus on and potentially reducing anxiety associated with conception. However, it's crucial to note that while AMH levels offer valuable insights, they are just one piece of the fertility puzzle. Various factors beyond egg quantity can influence fertility, including egg quality, hormonal balance, and overall health. Therefore, while AMH levels provide useful information, they should not be viewed as the sole determinant of fertility or a woman's ability to conceive. In conclusion, understanding AMH levels can significantly contribute to reducing TTC anxiety by providing valuable insights into ovarian reserve, aiding in planning, and offering a sense of reassurance. It's essential to approach fertility by considering all the various factors and seeking professional guidance when needed. By embracing this knowledge, individuals navigating the journey of conception can feel more empowered and informed, potentially easing the emotional strain often associated with trying to conceive.Eager to understand your own AMH levels? Head to our shop and try BioSURE's Ovarian Reserve Home Test (AMH), with results within 48 hours! Shop Now.
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Introducing Amy Hart: A Conversation on Ambassadorship, Fertility and Women's Wellness
In her first chat with us, Amy Hart, femme health's new brand ambassador, shares her perspectives on fertility and women's health. She celebrates femme health for its product range and support system, emphasising the need for equitable fertility grant access across the UK. Amy advises those on their fertility journey to seek comprehensive information and emotional support, highlighting the supportive community that femme health is building. Introduction:At femme health, we're committed to transforming fertility and women's health care. We believe in supporting women from the very start of their menstrual journey through to menopause and beyond. It's with great excitement that we introduce Amy Hart, our new brand ambassador. An outspoken advocate for fertility awareness and women's wellness, Amy shares her insights into the ever-changing world of fertility and women's health. femme health: Amy, you’ve shown a keen interest in femme health's holistic approach to supporting women's fertility journeys. How has this influenced your approach, especially with the diverse range of products we offer? Amy Hart: Absolutely! I'm continually impressed by the range at femme health. It's a welcome change from the endless social media scrolling. I'm planning a shift to organic period products and am also preparing for baby number two after my wedding. Exploring fertility supplements is definitely a priority for me. femme health: You've mentioned your hope for a second child post-wedding. As a femme health brand ambassador, do you think your approach to conceiving with Stanley will be different this time? Amy Hart: Definitely. Before joining femme health, navigating this space felt overwhelming, like having countless tabs open on my computer. I love to research, and having all these resources in one place is a stress-reliever. The convenience of accessing supplements, products, and expert advice on the site is unmatched. The articles and expert panel are incredibly helpful. femme health: We're aware of the regional disparities in the UK regarding access to fertility grants. What's your perspective on this issue? Amy Hart: The postcode lottery for fertility grants is something I'm very passionate about. It's incredibly unfair. Partnering with femme health was an easy decision for me, as we both envision equitable access to fertility grants across the UK. I’m impressed with femme health's collaboration with the Fertility Foundation and their commitment to donate a portion of their marketing income to this cause. femme health: As a role model, what advice would you give to those beginning their fertility journeys? Amy Hart: My advice would be to gather as much information as you can, seek emotional support, and try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Emotional support can come from partners, family, or even online communities. When I froze my eggs, I received incredible advice from my followers. Not everyone has such a network, which is why I'm excited about what femme health is doing. The femme community is a rich source of diverse experiences and tips. Let's support each other and celebrate each success story!
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Foods to help improve your menopause symptoms
In "Foods to Improve Your Menopause Symptoms," Julie Gough, a qualified nutritionist with expertise in women's health at Femme, provides insights on managing menopause through diet. With environmental factors contributing to hormonal imbalances, menopause symptoms like hot flushes and fatigue can be challenging. Julie suggests a natural approach, emphasising cruciferous vegetables for liver support, and explains the benefits of phytooestrogenic foods. She delves into the three main groups of phytoestrogens, explores gut health's impact on hormone balance, and recommends a Mediterranean diet. Julie's expertise offers valuable guidance for women navigating menopause naturally. Thank you, Julie, for your insightful contributions! Foods to improve your menopause symptoms by Julie Gough, a qualified nutritionist specialising in female health. Your diet can be a powerful tool in managing hormone levels during your transition into menopause and beyond. It seems even more so these days, as we are now commonly exposed to xeno-oestrogens through our environment such as herbicides and pesticides on food, traces of hormones in tap water and dairy products. There is also BPA in plastics, hormone disruptors in cleaning products, air fresheners and many more. Menopause is a natural transition marking the end of a woman`s reproductive years and starts when menstruation has ceased for 12 months and the ovaries no longer produce estrogen and progesterone. The period prior to this is called peri-menopause and during this time there can be wild fluctuations in the levels of estrogen and progesterone. This decline and fluctuation in hormones can lead to unwanted and in some cases, debilitating symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, anxiety, brain fog, mood swings, fatigue, joint aches and pains and weight gain. Estrogen is produced from the egg follicles and levels reduce as our egg cells deplete in quality and number. Progesterone is produced after the egg is released (ovulation) and also decreases as ovulation becomes less frequent. Post menopause we still produce smaller quantities of estrogen from conversion of testosterone through a process called aromatase. However, this is a less potent form. The adrenal glands are responsible for the production of cortisol, our survival hormone that is triggered during the stress response. Keeping stress levels under control is key to helping manage the transition through menopause and chronic or poorly managed stress can be a driver of menopause symptoms. If HRT is not for you Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the conventional treatment for menopause symptoms. However, what if you can`t take HRT due to risk factors or do not wish to take it? The good news is that you can manage your menopause naturally and as this is also a critical time window for your long-term health due to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis, it is a good time to really overhaul your diet and lifestyle and get to know your body and its signals. Venerable vegetables A group of foods called cruciferous vegetables are leafy green vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage sprout and spinach. These foods contain phytoestrogens. “Phyto” is a Greek word meaning plant and estrogenic being one of the female (and male) sex hormones. They support the liver and improve phase ll detoxification as they contain all of the essential nutrients required for this process such as B12, folate and magnesium. B vitamins and magnesium are also essential co- factors for hormone production and help us to maintain a healthy balance. B vitamins are water soluble and so how you cook your vegetables is very important. Boiling results in a nutrient loss as the vitamins are released into the water which is generally then tipped away. Steaming will help to retain the vitamins in the foods. In addition to this it is important to check where your vegetables have come from. It is best to buy these foods locally and when in season as these will contain the highest level of nutrients. If they have been transported a long way they will have been picked before becoming ripe and we know that the nutrient content starts to reduce soon after picking or cutting. The foods ripen during the transit process and then are generally packed in plastic packaging (remember the xeno-estrogens?) and sat under bright supermarket lights causing further depletion of nutrients. Clinical studies have shown that consuming more foods with phytoestrogenic properties can be a helpful alternative to HRT as when we eat these types of foods our bodies respond as if our own estrogen was present and this can have a balancing effect. There are many types of phytoestrogens and they are categorised into 3 main groups: Lignans – flaxseeds are the richest source of lignans. dried fruit such as prunes, apricots and dates, grains such as rice, oats, barley, quinoa, wheat bran, cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, nuts Isoflavones – spinach, legumes such as chickpeas, lentils, red kidney beans, soya beans edamame beans Coumarins – cabbage and Brussel sprouts and sprouting seeds such as alfalfa and mung beans. Women in Eastern cultures such as Japan are often said to experience a lower incidence of menopause symptoms and a lower incidence of osteoporosis. It is believed that this is due to the soy content of the eastern diet but they also consume sea vegetables such as seaweed, kelp and nori. These contain essential minerals such as iodine which nourish glands like the thyroid, an essential organ for hormone balance along with regulating our metabolism, energy, appetite and digestion. When other hormones start to become imbalanced the thyroid can be affected resulting, in some cases, in an under or over active thyroid. Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction can overlap the symptoms of menopause and so it is worth considering if it is worth testing this, especially if symptoms are unusual or do not respond to treatment. Ageing As we age our body systems are naturally slowing down, in particular our digestion and detoxification capabilities are reduced and these are linked directly to hormone imbalances. Many women suffer from bloating, cramps and other IBS like symptoms during the perimenopause and menopause. There are friendly bacteria in your gut, and what you eat helps maintain them and keep harmful bacteria at bay. A healthy gut can improve your emotional wellbeing, increase production of the ‘happy hormone’ serotonin which is produced in the gut, reduce inflammation and improve your general health and wellbeing. It is important that you support your digestion by increasing fibre and incorporating prebiotic and probiotic foods. Healthy gut bacteria is the key to good health and hormone balance. It can help with your energy levels, immune system and weight. Fibre includes fruit and vegetables, wholegrains, nuts and oats. Prebiotics stimulate the growth of good bacteria, and these include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, chicory, ginger, cabbage, beetroot, bananas, blueberries, and apples. Probiotic foods contain live bacteria and yeasts and may help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria. These include kefir, live yoghurt, kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi and live apple cider vinegar. Digestive issues such as constipation can lead to higher levels of beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme that is linked to estrogen reactivation that not only exacerbates hormone imbalances but has been linked to an increased risk for breast cancer. Another group of foods called prokinetic foods increase gut motility (transit through the colon). Ginger is a natural prokinetic. Try adding chunks to smoothies, soups, casseroles, stir fries. Emerging research has identified the best diet to relieve the symptoms of menopause is the Mediterranean diet. This is because it is rich in whole foods, low in carbohydrates, high in protein and fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy fats, and low in processed foods and sugars. The information presented here is not a replacement for medical advice, it is based on scientific studies in humans and animals and clinical experience. You should consult your doctor if you have any existing health problems or are taking any prescribed medications before making any dietary and lifestyle changes.
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Metformin, Clomid and other medications: fertility treatment options for PCOS
For those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) aiming to conceive, this blog explores fertility-enhancing options, including medications and lifestyle changes. PCOS, a leading cause of infertility, disrupts ovulation due to hormonal imbalances. Medications like Metformin and Clomid address insulin resistance and stimulate ovulation, respectively. Lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet focusing on low-glycemic foods, regular exercise combining cardio and strength training, and supplements like Inositol, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Vitamin D, can further improve fertility outcomes. Consulting a healthcare provider for a personalized treatment plan is crucial for those navigating PCOS and fertility challenges.Thanks, Zita West, for this insightful piece! Written by Zita West If you're dealing with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and you're considering getting pregnant, you may be wondering what your options are for increasing your chances of success. Let's explore the different medications often recommended for improving fertility in PCOS, as well as lifestyle changes that can further enhance your chances. Why Does PCOS Affect Fertility? PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility among women. The hormonal imbalances, including elevated levels of male hormones and irregularities in oestrogen and progesterone, often lead to ovulatory issues. This can make getting pregnant with PCOS challenging. Commonly Prescribed Medications Metformin Commonly used to treat insulin resistance, Metformin can also help regulate ovulation and thereby improve fertility in women with PCOS. It addresses insulin resistance, a key factor in PCOS side effects that can contribute to infertility. Clomid Clomiphene citrate, better known as Clomid, is often the first medication doctors prescribe for PCOS-related fertility issues. It works by stimulating the ovaries to release eggs. Lifestyle Changes to Enhance Success Diet A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help regulate insulin levels and improve the symptoms of PCOS. Specifically, focusing on low-glycemic foods can mitigate insulin resistance, further aiding fertility efforts. Exercise Regular physical activity can help manage insulin resistance and other symptoms of PCOS. A combination of cardio and strength training is highly beneficial for improving fertility outcomes. Supplements for Enhanced Fertility Inositol Particularly myo-inositol is recommended for its role in improving ovary function and fertility among women with PCOS. Omega-3 Fatty Acids These essential fatty acid are known for reducing inflammation and may help improve hormonal balance in PCOS patients. Vitamin D Vitamin D deficiency is commonly found in women with PCOS and may negatively impact fertility. Supplementing with Vitamin D can improve metabolic parameters. Enhanced Fertility After 30 While fertility generally declines with age, by combining medical treatment with lifestyle changes, your chances of getting pregnant with PCOS after 30 can be significantly enhanced. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for a tailored treatment plan that addresses your individual needs, especially if you're dealing with the complexities of PCOS and fertility. PCOS can present numerous challenges to fertility, but with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, many successfully conceive. If you're considering getting pregnant and have PCOS, a combination of medications, diet, exercise, and supplements can significantly improve your chances. For more support, you can find our PCOS collection here.
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In The Press
Simplify Your Fertility Tracking with Tempdrop
Take the guesswork out of cycle tracking with Tempdrop, the smart wearable thermometer that fits seamlessly into your routine. Designed to learn your unique patterns, it provides accurate, reliable insights without the hassle of early wake-ups or daily charts.
