This is an impressive story using donor's egg and sperm!
She is an amazing mum!
http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/editors-choice/2011/07/05/he-s-all-mine-the-amazing-story-of-how-one-woman-overcame-heartache-to-conceive-her-baby-86908-23248952/
Showing posts with label Fertility. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fertility. Show all posts
Friday, July 22, 2011
Blood Type Affects Fertility
This is an interesting article.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43711661/ns/health-womens_health/
Apparently, blood type O female tends to suffer premature ovarian reserve failure, compared to other blood types.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43711661/ns/health-womens_health/
Apparently, blood type O female tends to suffer premature ovarian reserve failure, compared to other blood types.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Timing to Eat affects Fertility
This is interesting and the theory may apply to human too!
http://media-newswire.com/release_1152338.html
http://media-newswire.com/release_1152338.html
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Reduce stress to improve fertility
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/05/10/lowering-stress-improves-fertility-treatment/?partner=rss&emc=rss
This is a really interesting article!
This is a really interesting article!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Antioxidants Vs Fertility
Seems like female should not take antioxidants supplement as it may affect ovulation but male should take more .......
Female related:
Antioxidants lead to fertility problems
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health/Antioxidants-lead-to-fertility-problems/articleshow/7319930.cms
Male related:
Antioxidants May Boost Baby Making
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/antioxidants-increase-male-fertility/story?id=12641649&page=1
Female related:
Antioxidants lead to fertility problems
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health/Antioxidants-lead-to-fertility-problems/articleshow/7319930.cms
Male related:
Antioxidants May Boost Baby Making
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/antioxidants-increase-male-fertility/story?id=12641649&page=1
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Alkaline foods for conception
I recently read about natural food therapy to improve fertility. In such therapy, women eats alkaline rather than acid foods.
In summary, the chemical processes during digestion have an ideal pH at which they are most efficient and the human body functions at a slightly alkaline pH between 7.0 and 8.0. The pH of blood is slightly alkaline and the body has many stores of alkalizing minerals to keep it that way.
Where do we get these minerals? Our food supplies our minerals (not including vitamin and mineral supplements). The total balance of minerals in a particular food is either acid or alkaline. A food is not classed as acid or alkaline by how it tastes. It has everything to do with the residue that remains once the food has been metabolized.
When food is metabolized to produce energy, a residue remains that is either acid, alkaline or neutral. It is important to note that although a food may taste acidic, it may leave an alkaline residue.
Alkaline-forming foods include vegetables, fruits, soybeans, almonds, most legumes, potatoes with skin, bananas, millet and buckwheat. Acid-forming foods include meat, fish, eggs, cheese, most grains and nuts, and peanuts. Neutral foods include fats and oils.
Many diseases and allergic reactions are associated with an over-acid condition of the body fluids. Symptoms such as pain and weakness may indicate that the alkaline reserves of the body are exhausted.
In addition, taking large amounts of Vitamin C especially as synthetic ascorbic acid increases the body’s acidity.
Attaining a healthy PH balance is essential for reproductive health. If cervical mucous becomes too acidic, it can become hostile to sperm and prevent implantation (sperm favor an alkaline existence). For an ideal PH balance, 70-80% of your diet should be from alkaline foods, while 20-30% can come from acidic foods. Saliva is alkaline, so remember to chew your foods well to create an internal environment conducive to fertility.
Highest Alkaline Forming Foods:
String beans, banana, dandelion greens, dates, figs, prunes, raisins and Swiss Chard.
High Alkaline Forming Foods:
Almonds, asparagus, avocado, fresh beans, beets, black-berries, carrot, cranberries, chives, endive, sour grapes, kale, dried peach, persimmon, plum, pomegranate, raspberries, rooibos tea and spinach.
Alkaline Forming Foods:
Agar, alfalfa, apple, fresh apricot, globe artichokes, bamboo shoots, snap beans, sprouted beans, most berries, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cantaloupe, cauliflower, celery, cherries, chestnuts, chicory, coconut milk, collards, corn (when fresh), cucumbers, daikon, eggplant, escarole, garlic, ginger root, gooseberry, grapefruit, guava, horseradish (fresh and raw), kelp, kohlrabi, leek, lemon, lettuce, line, loganberry, mango, melons, raw, milk, m millet, acidophilus yogurt and whey.
Neutral Oils:
Almond, avocado, coconut, cottonseed, linseed (flaxseed), olive, safflower, sesame, sunflower, and walnut.
Highest Acid Forming Foods:
Alcohol, artichoke root, barley, bread, buckwheat, caffeine, coffee, corn (when processed and not fresh), custards, drugs, most flours, ginger preserves, honey, lentils, pate, oatmeal, peanuts rice, rye grain, soy bred, soy noodles, sorghum, spaghetti, and other pastas, sugar cane, raw beets tobacco, walnut, wheat.
Acid Forming Foods:
Dried beans, cashews, coconut, cranberry juice and concentrate, egg yolk, filberts, fruit jellies, (canned jams, sulfured, sugared, dried), grapes, pasteurized milk products, dry peas, pecans, Damson plums, tofu, fries and water chestnuts.
Acid Forming Fats:
Butter, cream, margarine and lard.
In summary, the chemical processes during digestion have an ideal pH at which they are most efficient and the human body functions at a slightly alkaline pH between 7.0 and 8.0. The pH of blood is slightly alkaline and the body has many stores of alkalizing minerals to keep it that way.
Where do we get these minerals? Our food supplies our minerals (not including vitamin and mineral supplements). The total balance of minerals in a particular food is either acid or alkaline. A food is not classed as acid or alkaline by how it tastes. It has everything to do with the residue that remains once the food has been metabolized.
When food is metabolized to produce energy, a residue remains that is either acid, alkaline or neutral. It is important to note that although a food may taste acidic, it may leave an alkaline residue.
Alkaline-forming foods include vegetables, fruits, soybeans, almonds, most legumes, potatoes with skin, bananas, millet and buckwheat. Acid-forming foods include meat, fish, eggs, cheese, most grains and nuts, and peanuts. Neutral foods include fats and oils.
Many diseases and allergic reactions are associated with an over-acid condition of the body fluids. Symptoms such as pain and weakness may indicate that the alkaline reserves of the body are exhausted.
In addition, taking large amounts of Vitamin C especially as synthetic ascorbic acid increases the body’s acidity.
Attaining a healthy PH balance is essential for reproductive health. If cervical mucous becomes too acidic, it can become hostile to sperm and prevent implantation (sperm favor an alkaline existence). For an ideal PH balance, 70-80% of your diet should be from alkaline foods, while 20-30% can come from acidic foods. Saliva is alkaline, so remember to chew your foods well to create an internal environment conducive to fertility.
Highest Alkaline Forming Foods:
String beans, banana, dandelion greens, dates, figs, prunes, raisins and Swiss Chard.
High Alkaline Forming Foods:
Almonds, asparagus, avocado, fresh beans, beets, black-berries, carrot, cranberries, chives, endive, sour grapes, kale, dried peach, persimmon, plum, pomegranate, raspberries, rooibos tea and spinach.
Alkaline Forming Foods:
Agar, alfalfa, apple, fresh apricot, globe artichokes, bamboo shoots, snap beans, sprouted beans, most berries, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cantaloupe, cauliflower, celery, cherries, chestnuts, chicory, coconut milk, collards, corn (when fresh), cucumbers, daikon, eggplant, escarole, garlic, ginger root, gooseberry, grapefruit, guava, horseradish (fresh and raw), kelp, kohlrabi, leek, lemon, lettuce, line, loganberry, mango, melons, raw, milk, m millet, acidophilus yogurt and whey.
Neutral Oils:
Almond, avocado, coconut, cottonseed, linseed (flaxseed), olive, safflower, sesame, sunflower, and walnut.
Highest Acid Forming Foods:
Alcohol, artichoke root, barley, bread, buckwheat, caffeine, coffee, corn (when processed and not fresh), custards, drugs, most flours, ginger preserves, honey, lentils, pate, oatmeal, peanuts rice, rye grain, soy bred, soy noodles, sorghum, spaghetti, and other pastas, sugar cane, raw beets tobacco, walnut, wheat.
Acid Forming Foods:
Dried beans, cashews, coconut, cranberry juice and concentrate, egg yolk, filberts, fruit jellies, (canned jams, sulfured, sugared, dried), grapes, pasteurized milk products, dry peas, pecans, Damson plums, tofu, fries and water chestnuts.
Acid Forming Fats:
Butter, cream, margarine and lard.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Laptop computers affect mens fertility
New research published in the medial journal Fertility and Sterility (Nov 2010) reveals that laptop computers can roast a man’s testicles to the point where sperm production (and quality) starts to drop.
To conduct the study, researchers placed temperature sensors on the scrotums of 29 men, then asked those men to use laptop computers on their laps. It didn’t take long before scrotum temperatures rose to levels known to damage sperm production — just 10 to 15 minutes of computing time.
Testicles are supposed to stay cool. And I don’t mean “wow, that’s cool” but rather that they are supposed to remain a degree or two below body temperature in order to maximize sperm production. When the testes get too hot — even with as little as a one degree Centigrade rise in temperature — sperm production starts to fall. Using a laptop computer on your lap can cause temperatures to rise by 2.5 C in one hour, according to this research.
And the men in the study didn’t even notice the rise in temperature, by the way. Probably because they were too busy updating their Facebook pages with comments like, “Check it out, I’m actually getting paid to roast my nuts for the advancement of science!”
In the world of temperature-sensitive sperm production, 2.5 C is equivalent to a scrotum barbeque cook-off. And all it takes is a little laptop computing to send temperatures soaring
Surprisingly, even using a laptop cooling pad didn’t help, researchers reported. Scrotum temperatures still rose just the same.
Reuters reported that Belkin International, Inc., makers of laptop computer cooling pads, “…did not wish to comment on the new findings.” (http://www.reuters.com/article/idUS…)
No surprise there. This is dangerous territory for marketers. After all, there’s really no way to spin this story in a positive direction. Even if Belkin unleashed ads such as, “Feeling the heat? We keep your scrotum cool,” they would be hit with complaints about lewd marketing tactics.
It turns out the biggest determining factor of whether a laptop computer heats up your testicles is your leg position while computing. I’m not making this up: Researchers found the best position was to spread your legs wide while computing in order to dissipate heat and cool your man-crotch
Because men who can’t keep their junk cool are actually practicing a form of laptop birth control. Although the drop in sperm quality from laptop heat isn’t considered permanent, it’s technically a form of short-term sperm suppression. Sort of like soaking your sack in a hot tub for twenty minutes
To conduct the study, researchers placed temperature sensors on the scrotums of 29 men, then asked those men to use laptop computers on their laps. It didn’t take long before scrotum temperatures rose to levels known to damage sperm production — just 10 to 15 minutes of computing time.
Testicles are supposed to stay cool. And I don’t mean “wow, that’s cool” but rather that they are supposed to remain a degree or two below body temperature in order to maximize sperm production. When the testes get too hot — even with as little as a one degree Centigrade rise in temperature — sperm production starts to fall. Using a laptop computer on your lap can cause temperatures to rise by 2.5 C in one hour, according to this research.
And the men in the study didn’t even notice the rise in temperature, by the way. Probably because they were too busy updating their Facebook pages with comments like, “Check it out, I’m actually getting paid to roast my nuts for the advancement of science!”
In the world of temperature-sensitive sperm production, 2.5 C is equivalent to a scrotum barbeque cook-off. And all it takes is a little laptop computing to send temperatures soaring
Surprisingly, even using a laptop cooling pad didn’t help, researchers reported. Scrotum temperatures still rose just the same.
Reuters reported that Belkin International, Inc., makers of laptop computer cooling pads, “…did not wish to comment on the new findings.” (http://www.reuters.com/article/idUS…)
No surprise there. This is dangerous territory for marketers. After all, there’s really no way to spin this story in a positive direction. Even if Belkin unleashed ads such as, “Feeling the heat? We keep your scrotum cool,” they would be hit with complaints about lewd marketing tactics.
It turns out the biggest determining factor of whether a laptop computer heats up your testicles is your leg position while computing. I’m not making this up: Researchers found the best position was to spread your legs wide while computing in order to dissipate heat and cool your man-crotch
Because men who can’t keep their junk cool are actually practicing a form of laptop birth control. Although the drop in sperm quality from laptop heat isn’t considered permanent, it’s technically a form of short-term sperm suppression. Sort of like soaking your sack in a hot tub for twenty minutes
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Taking a Break from TTC
I'm taking a break from TTC so that's why you dont see me post anything regarding fertility related topic.
I'm busy with my San Fran trip preparation and also concentrating to get my wounds heal ..........
Anyway, the wounds are too painful to make me wanna get intimat with RY.
After a week from the bad fall, the wounds are still rather raw but I can see its healing ....... it may take another week for it to heal completely (I hope), I dont want to go USA with such painful and ugly wounds on my arms.
But glad to inform that the chipped lips is almost 90% healed and the one on my left knee is drying up now.
Those on the arms are still pretty raw ........
Today when I was at the TCM, she was amazed to see my rather bad raw wounds and even suggested the posture that I should get into for her acupuncture session.
After this fall, I realised that most of the time, we simply take things for granted, it's only when you lost it then you realised the importance.
With the injured arms, I find it difficult to do simple movement like flipping my body around in bed and slinging my handbag on my shoulder. I also need to be extra careful when I move around crowded street for fear of the passer-by knocking into me or brush over my arms.
I must appreciate my healthy body better now and not to take it for granted!
Indeed Health is Wealth!
I'm busy with my San Fran trip preparation and also concentrating to get my wounds heal ..........
Anyway, the wounds are too painful to make me wanna get intimat with RY.
After a week from the bad fall, the wounds are still rather raw but I can see its healing ....... it may take another week for it to heal completely (I hope), I dont want to go USA with such painful and ugly wounds on my arms.
But glad to inform that the chipped lips is almost 90% healed and the one on my left knee is drying up now.
Those on the arms are still pretty raw ........
Today when I was at the TCM, she was amazed to see my rather bad raw wounds and even suggested the posture that I should get into for her acupuncture session.
After this fall, I realised that most of the time, we simply take things for granted, it's only when you lost it then you realised the importance.
With the injured arms, I find it difficult to do simple movement like flipping my body around in bed and slinging my handbag on my shoulder. I also need to be extra careful when I move around crowded street for fear of the passer-by knocking into me or brush over my arms.
I must appreciate my healthy body better now and not to take it for granted!
Indeed Health is Wealth!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
FSH got Worst!
Its really bad news that my Apr FSH reading has gone up to 26!
Yes, its 26 and there's not typo error.
This reading means I wont be able to proceed to IVF short protocol.
Doc asked me to repeat the test this coming cycle to check if it's still as high.
If the reading is still high, I'll need to go for donor's egg or adoption .........
I dont think I'll repeat the FSH test so soon, I'll instead take a break before I go for the test as I dont wanna stress myself up.
Doc told me to try naturally ourselve and he was rather nice, he told me that there're ladies who got FSH 200 and yet got preg naturally ........
I replied that him that I'll buy "TOTO" (lottery ticket) at the same time to see which strike first.
He said, maybe I strike both.
We all know that the chances of getting preg naturally is very very low, the probability is so slim that its equivalent to wininng of lottery.
He just being nice and polite to instill some hope in me which I appreciate since he's known as a doc of few words.
Life still goes on, I think I'll plan for a holiday to US - San Francisco this July.
Yes, its 26 and there's not typo error.
This reading means I wont be able to proceed to IVF short protocol.
Doc asked me to repeat the test this coming cycle to check if it's still as high.
If the reading is still high, I'll need to go for donor's egg or adoption .........
I dont think I'll repeat the FSH test so soon, I'll instead take a break before I go for the test as I dont wanna stress myself up.
Doc told me to try naturally ourselve and he was rather nice, he told me that there're ladies who got FSH 200 and yet got preg naturally ........
I replied that him that I'll buy "TOTO" (lottery ticket) at the same time to see which strike first.
He said, maybe I strike both.
We all know that the chances of getting preg naturally is very very low, the probability is so slim that its equivalent to wininng of lottery.
He just being nice and polite to instill some hope in me which I appreciate since he's known as a doc of few words.
Life still goes on, I think I'll plan for a holiday to US - San Francisco this July.
Monday, May 10, 2010
What is the "normal" Ovary Size?
I've done some research on the normal ovary size for different age group.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6WG6-45F4NJG-7D&_user=10&_coverDate=06%2F30%2F2000&_rdoc=1&_fmt=high&_orig=search&_sort=d&_docanchor=&view=c&_searchStrId=1329560796&_rerunOrigin=google&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=8972ce6cded5761cf21e490ca0d2b09d
Abstract
Objective. The goal of this study was to determine the relationship of ovarian volume to age, height, and weight in women undergoing transvaginal sonography.
Methods. Thirteen thousand nine hundred sixty-three women 25–91 years of age undergoing annual transvaginal sonography as part of the University of Kentucky Ovarian Cancer Screening Program were the subjects for this investigation. Each ovary was measured in three dimensions, and ovarian volume was calculated using the prolate ellipsoid formula (L × H × W × 0.523). Mean ovarian volume according to age was calculated for each decade of life.
Results. Data were obtained from 58,673 observations of ovarian volume. Mean ovarian volume was 6.6 ± 0.19 cm3 in women less than 30 years of age; 6.1 ± 0.06 cm3 in women 30–39; 4.8 ± 0.03 cm3 in women 40–49; 2.6 ± 0.01 cm3 in women 50–59; 2.1 ± 0.01 cm3 in women 60–69; and 1.8 ± 0.08 cm3 in women ≥70. Mean ovarian volume was 4.9 ± 0.03 cm3 in premenopausal women and 2.2 ± 0.01 cm3 in postmenopausal women (P < 0.001). The use of exogenous estrogens was associated with a significant reduction in ovarian volume in women 40–59 years of age, but not in women ≥ 60. Ovarian volume was unrelated to patient weight but was greater in tall women (>68 in.) than in short women (<58 in.).
Conclusion. There is a statistically significant decrease in ovarian volume with each decade of life from age 30 to age 70. Mean ovarian volume in premenopausal women is significantly greater than that in postmenopausal women. The upper limit of normal for ovarian volume is 20 cm3 in premenopausal women and 10 cm3 in postmenopausal women.
Are you within the range as mentioned in the study above?
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6WG6-45F4NJG-7D&_user=10&_coverDate=06%2F30%2F2000&_rdoc=1&_fmt=high&_orig=search&_sort=d&_docanchor=&view=c&_searchStrId=1329560796&_rerunOrigin=google&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=8972ce6cded5761cf21e490ca0d2b09d
Abstract
Objective. The goal of this study was to determine the relationship of ovarian volume to age, height, and weight in women undergoing transvaginal sonography.
Methods. Thirteen thousand nine hundred sixty-three women 25–91 years of age undergoing annual transvaginal sonography as part of the University of Kentucky Ovarian Cancer Screening Program were the subjects for this investigation. Each ovary was measured in three dimensions, and ovarian volume was calculated using the prolate ellipsoid formula (L × H × W × 0.523). Mean ovarian volume according to age was calculated for each decade of life.
Results. Data were obtained from 58,673 observations of ovarian volume. Mean ovarian volume was 6.6 ± 0.19 cm3 in women less than 30 years of age; 6.1 ± 0.06 cm3 in women 30–39; 4.8 ± 0.03 cm3 in women 40–49; 2.6 ± 0.01 cm3 in women 50–59; 2.1 ± 0.01 cm3 in women 60–69; and 1.8 ± 0.08 cm3 in women ≥70. Mean ovarian volume was 4.9 ± 0.03 cm3 in premenopausal women and 2.2 ± 0.01 cm3 in postmenopausal women (P < 0.001). The use of exogenous estrogens was associated with a significant reduction in ovarian volume in women 40–59 years of age, but not in women ≥ 60. Ovarian volume was unrelated to patient weight but was greater in tall women (>68 in.) than in short women (<58 in.).
Conclusion. There is a statistically significant decrease in ovarian volume with each decade of life from age 30 to age 70. Mean ovarian volume in premenopausal women is significantly greater than that in postmenopausal women. The upper limit of normal for ovarian volume is 20 cm3 in premenopausal women and 10 cm3 in postmenopausal women.
Are you within the range as mentioned in the study above?
Sunday, May 2, 2010
What've I been doing for the past few weeks?
I've been busy reading up about diminishing egg reserve and ways/ means to improve the egg quality.
After reading from the various sources, I realised that there's no way the increase the egg quantity since we're borned with a pre-determined qty of follicles but we're able to improve the egg quality and it would be to load up more protein & anti-oxidant health supplement.
Protein to aide in the egg growth and the anti-oxidant is to delay aging so that the body is able to produce the fertility related hormones .........
I'll try to take whey protein, DHEA, COQ10, grape seed extracts, multi-vit, Alpha Lipoic Acid etc prior to my next IVF cycle .......
After reading from the various sources, I realised that there's no way the increase the egg quantity since we're borned with a pre-determined qty of follicles but we're able to improve the egg quality and it would be to load up more protein & anti-oxidant health supplement.
Protein to aide in the egg growth and the anti-oxidant is to delay aging so that the body is able to produce the fertility related hormones .........
I'll try to take whey protein, DHEA, COQ10, grape seed extracts, multi-vit, Alpha Lipoic Acid etc prior to my next IVF cycle .......
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Interesting Fertility Blog to Share
This is a very good blog to follow.
http://shrinkingfibroids.blogspot.com/
The author has tried out many means to improve her fertility odds and has also done alot of useful research.
http://shrinkingfibroids.blogspot.com/
The author has tried out many means to improve her fertility odds and has also done alot of useful research.
Monday, February 22, 2010
TCM Updates on 21 Feb
Yesterday I went to the TCM and updated about my late cycle (mens at CD37) and the commencement of the birth control pills.
She aked if I'd like to take any chinese medication now till completion of IVF cycle and she wanted me to make the decision as she knew that KKH doesnt endorse the use of chinese medication.
She said I've to be comfortable with my own decision since IVF is a very stressful journey and she doesnt want to add unnecessary stress to me should I consume chinese herbs (what if the stimulation response is poor this time and I may blame myself for taking the herbs).
She was an experienced fertility doc/ surgeon in China and its common and part of the IVF protocol there to do acpuncture and medication concurrently before/ during & after IVF treatment.
After much consideration, I think I wont take the medication for fear of unnecessary worries on the stimulation impact.
The TCM kept telling me not to be stressed since I've done what I can and should let nature take its cause.
To be frank, would you not be worried after 3 successful pregnancy but end up in miscarraiges?
But true enough, I think I should/ must try to relax.
Wish me luck!
She aked if I'd like to take any chinese medication now till completion of IVF cycle and she wanted me to make the decision as she knew that KKH doesnt endorse the use of chinese medication.
She said I've to be comfortable with my own decision since IVF is a very stressful journey and she doesnt want to add unnecessary stress to me should I consume chinese herbs (what if the stimulation response is poor this time and I may blame myself for taking the herbs).
She was an experienced fertility doc/ surgeon in China and its common and part of the IVF protocol there to do acpuncture and medication concurrently before/ during & after IVF treatment.
After much consideration, I think I wont take the medication for fear of unnecessary worries on the stimulation impact.
The TCM kept telling me not to be stressed since I've done what I can and should let nature take its cause.
To be frank, would you not be worried after 3 successful pregnancy but end up in miscarraiges?
But true enough, I think I should/ must try to relax.
Wish me luck!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Interesting Fertility Blog to Share
Hi
I happened to come across this Fertility Blog and find it useful to share and for permanaent referencing.
http://waywardstork.blogspot.com/
I happened to come across this Fertility Blog and find it useful to share and for permanaent referencing.
http://waywardstork.blogspot.com/
Fertility Food
Fertility Food:
Pineapple - Contains bromelain which can act as a blood thinner, that can increase blood flow to the uterus. Bromelain is found in fresh pineapple, specifically in the core. Pineapple also contains selenium that helps to thicken the uterine lining and promote a healthy womb lining which aids with implantation.
Brazil nuts -- A top source of selenium, a vitamin that helps keep sperm cells healthy while also helping sperm motility and quality. Brazil nuts are also a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect sperm cells against free-radical damage. Brazil nuts also help with implantation and to thicken the uterus lining.
Yams - Wild yams are said to be a fertility superfood that have also been linked with multiple births. A tribe in Africa whose diet consists mostly of yams was recently found to have exceptionally high rates of twins and multiple births. Yams are thought to contain chemicals that stimulate hyperovulation, increasing your chances of conceiving.
Maca - A fertility superfood from Peru which helps to balance the hormones, increase egg health, increase progesterone in the body, increase sperm count and health, and is a tonic for the endocrine system.
Royal Jelly - A fertility superfood which is said to increase egg health, quality of egg, and general fertility. It is rich is vitamins, calcium, iron, amino acids and immune stimulating properties. Interestingly, royal jelly is the food that is fed to the queen bee which is what makes her the queen bee. She goes on to live 6 years and lays up to 2000 eggs per day. Other bees live less than two months.
Bee Propolis and Bee Pollen - Two fertility super foods that are rich in nutrients to help the immune system, and it also helps women who have endometriosis.
Whole grains - Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, whole wheat and quinoa are complex carbohydrates that contain an abundance of B and E vitamins that are essential for cellular reproduction, hormonal balance and the production of healthy ova and sperm. Women should be sure to eat lots of oatmeal.
Oily Fish - Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are the best source of essential fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6 which play an important role in regulating reproductive functioning, improving blood flow and enhancing sperm quality and mobility.
Full Fat Dairy - Research has found that women who eat at least one portion of full fat dairy a day are significantly less likely to suffer from fertility problems that those who eat half fat or non dairy options. Whole dairy is a great source of calcium which is important in the development and maintenance of the nervous system, bones and blood. Great sources are whole milk, whole yogurt, cheese, ice cream. Have fun eating up!
Olive Oil -- Provides a rich source of vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant and an essential fertility nutrient for both men and women as it improves the viability of sperm and helps to regulate both ovulation and the production of cervical mucus and healthy hormone functioning.
Garlic - Contains an abundance of fertility boosting nutrients which enhance male fertility and help prevent the chromosome breakage that may play a role in early miscarriage. Garlic also contains vitamin B6 which helps to regulate hormones and strengthens the immune system.
Blueberries - A superfood loaded with antioxidants. They are a natural disease fighting food, high in fiber, and contain a potent dose of proanthocyanidins beneficial for cognitive function, cardiovascular, and reproductive health.
Avocados - One of the most potent antioxidants and disease fighting foods available.
Green tea -- This one is controversial, because it contains caffeine, which is a fertility no, no. But, if you are so inclined to have a cup, this miracle tea contains antioxidants useful for cancer protection and, if taken regularly, can help to lower cholesterol, improve blood sugar balance and increase your energy and fertility.
Wild Fresh Salmon -- A miracle food that is extremely high in essential fatty acids. All of the cell membranes in the body are comprised of fatty acids and our brain is over 70% fatty tissues. These fats are crucial for a healthy mind, memory, blood pressure regulation, and fertility enhancement.
Raw Pumpkin & Sunflower Seeds - A great food for male fertility, as they contain high levels of zinc and essential fatty acids which are vital to healthy functioning of the male reproductive system. These seeds have been shown to help with male fertility. It is recommended that a man with a low sperm count eat 1/4 cup a day.
Almonds & Walnuts - these raw nuts are rich in healthy oils, zinc, selenium, and vitamin E that can increase sperm and egg quality.
Flaxseed - A miracle food that in known for it's cancer protective ability, along with providing a good source of fiber and essential fatty acids that will aid fertility.
Lean Red Meat - Lean red meat is a great source of iron which helps to prevent anemia, decreases the risk of ovulatory infertility and plays a role in the production and function of red blood cells. Red meat is also a good source of vitamin B12 which is essential in the maintenance and development of the nervous system.
Honey - Honey has been used to enhance fertility throughout history as it is incredibly rich in the minerals and amino acids that nourish the reproductive system and stimulate ovarian function.
Whey protein powder - Getting enough protein in your diet can have a huge effect on fertility. If you do not get enough protein in your diet, consider a protein powder that is organic or raised without hormones and antibiotics, and the protein source should never be soy.
Spirulina - A tiny aquatic plant that has more protein than soy, more Vitamin A than carrots, more iron than beef, and is easy to digest.
Spinach - Spinach and other leafy greens are an excellent source of folic acid which is important in optimizing sperm production, facilitating regular, healthy ova production and helping to prevent neural tube defects during early pregnancy. It is also a great source of iron and vitamin C which helps to enhance sperm quality by protecting the DNA stored within it from damage.
Oysters -It is the abundance of zinc that gives it its fertility boosting qualities. Zinc is often considered to be the most important fertility nutrient as it has been shown to help with both healthy sperm and egg production.
Chillies - Have been known to increase the flow of blood around the body, ensuring that the reproductive system gets a healthy supply. Chillies also stimulate endorphin production which means more fertility boosting, stress releasing, happy hormones circulate around your body. But don’t eat them after ovulation/transfer.
Red, Orange, & Dark Geen Vegetables - Getting enough vegetables is important for boosting overall reproductive health.
Citrus Fruits- Contain folic acid and can help with fertility.
Legumes (beans, peas, lentils, garbanzo)-- A good source of protein that can aid with fertility.
Eggs - High in selenium to help create a healthy uterus for implantation. Also a great source of protein to help with egg and sperm quality.
Quinoa -- A superfood that is a great source of protein that is linked to fighting cancer and increasing fertility.
2 Liters of Filtered Water Per Day(preferably not bottles) -- It should be filtered and clean to help flush out toxins from the body and increase general reproductive health. Plastic bottles could have PCB chemicals that leak into the water and contribute to cancer and low fertility.
** Remember to take a prenatal vitamin daily with extra folic acid.
** Try to buy organic wherever possible, because chemicals in non-organic foods have been linked to infertility. All vegetables and dairy should be organic. Fish should be wild, chicken should be free-range or organic, all red meats should be grass fed or organic, All grains should be whole and naturally grown.
Fertility Food No-no's:
No Regular Bananas -- If you eat bananas, which is a good thing, you must buy organic. There is pretty clear evidence that a common agricultural chemical used in growing bananas effects sperm morphology and motility---to the point of sterilizing farm workers. The chemical is absorbed into the growing fruit, so peeling it doesn't help. So make sure your bananas are organic men!
Cut out all Alcohol -- Alcohol can reduce your fertility by up to 50%.
Cut out Caffeine -- Caffeine in coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate has been shown to reduce male & female fertility. As little as one cup of coffee a day can cut your chances of conception in half.
Cut out Junk Food, Processed Foot and Saturated Fats -- This speaks for itself, but you need to be sure that your body is gaining nutrients from food, not empty calories.
Do Not Diet -- Even though it's tempting to want to fit into those new jeans, diets could be counterproductive to fertility.
Decrease Sugar -- Refined sugars not only make you gain weight but can disrupt your body's blood sugar levels. They will initially give you energy but later on you will suffer from an abrupt crash, and even more fatigue.
No Artificial Sweetener -- Although there has been a great deal of debate, studies have found that artificial sweeteners, like aspartame, may be linked to cancer and decreased fertility.
Watch your Herbal Supplements: Some people swear by herbs, but many doctors feel that you should cut all herbs while on fertility medications, because they can interfere with the process. This includes herbal teas, even chamomile. Instead try steamed milk, hot lemon with water, or apple cider!
After Ovulation/Transfer avoid Fish: Don't eat sushi or any raw fish. Avoid fish that have high mercury content due to their environment—including swordfish, tilefish, king mackerel, shark, and shell fish.
No Soft Cheeses after Ovulation/Transfer: Avoid cheeses such as brie, feta, and anything that is creamy or unpasturized.
Pineapple - Contains bromelain which can act as a blood thinner, that can increase blood flow to the uterus. Bromelain is found in fresh pineapple, specifically in the core. Pineapple also contains selenium that helps to thicken the uterine lining and promote a healthy womb lining which aids with implantation.
Brazil nuts -- A top source of selenium, a vitamin that helps keep sperm cells healthy while also helping sperm motility and quality. Brazil nuts are also a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect sperm cells against free-radical damage. Brazil nuts also help with implantation and to thicken the uterus lining.
Yams - Wild yams are said to be a fertility superfood that have also been linked with multiple births. A tribe in Africa whose diet consists mostly of yams was recently found to have exceptionally high rates of twins and multiple births. Yams are thought to contain chemicals that stimulate hyperovulation, increasing your chances of conceiving.
Maca - A fertility superfood from Peru which helps to balance the hormones, increase egg health, increase progesterone in the body, increase sperm count and health, and is a tonic for the endocrine system.
Royal Jelly - A fertility superfood which is said to increase egg health, quality of egg, and general fertility. It is rich is vitamins, calcium, iron, amino acids and immune stimulating properties. Interestingly, royal jelly is the food that is fed to the queen bee which is what makes her the queen bee. She goes on to live 6 years and lays up to 2000 eggs per day. Other bees live less than two months.
Bee Propolis and Bee Pollen - Two fertility super foods that are rich in nutrients to help the immune system, and it also helps women who have endometriosis.
Whole grains - Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, whole wheat and quinoa are complex carbohydrates that contain an abundance of B and E vitamins that are essential for cellular reproduction, hormonal balance and the production of healthy ova and sperm. Women should be sure to eat lots of oatmeal.
Oily Fish - Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are the best source of essential fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6 which play an important role in regulating reproductive functioning, improving blood flow and enhancing sperm quality and mobility.
Full Fat Dairy - Research has found that women who eat at least one portion of full fat dairy a day are significantly less likely to suffer from fertility problems that those who eat half fat or non dairy options. Whole dairy is a great source of calcium which is important in the development and maintenance of the nervous system, bones and blood. Great sources are whole milk, whole yogurt, cheese, ice cream. Have fun eating up!
Olive Oil -- Provides a rich source of vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant and an essential fertility nutrient for both men and women as it improves the viability of sperm and helps to regulate both ovulation and the production of cervical mucus and healthy hormone functioning.
Garlic - Contains an abundance of fertility boosting nutrients which enhance male fertility and help prevent the chromosome breakage that may play a role in early miscarriage. Garlic also contains vitamin B6 which helps to regulate hormones and strengthens the immune system.
Blueberries - A superfood loaded with antioxidants. They are a natural disease fighting food, high in fiber, and contain a potent dose of proanthocyanidins beneficial for cognitive function, cardiovascular, and reproductive health.
Avocados - One of the most potent antioxidants and disease fighting foods available.
Green tea -- This one is controversial, because it contains caffeine, which is a fertility no, no. But, if you are so inclined to have a cup, this miracle tea contains antioxidants useful for cancer protection and, if taken regularly, can help to lower cholesterol, improve blood sugar balance and increase your energy and fertility.
Wild Fresh Salmon -- A miracle food that is extremely high in essential fatty acids. All of the cell membranes in the body are comprised of fatty acids and our brain is over 70% fatty tissues. These fats are crucial for a healthy mind, memory, blood pressure regulation, and fertility enhancement.
Raw Pumpkin & Sunflower Seeds - A great food for male fertility, as they contain high levels of zinc and essential fatty acids which are vital to healthy functioning of the male reproductive system. These seeds have been shown to help with male fertility. It is recommended that a man with a low sperm count eat 1/4 cup a day.
Almonds & Walnuts - these raw nuts are rich in healthy oils, zinc, selenium, and vitamin E that can increase sperm and egg quality.
Flaxseed - A miracle food that in known for it's cancer protective ability, along with providing a good source of fiber and essential fatty acids that will aid fertility.
Lean Red Meat - Lean red meat is a great source of iron which helps to prevent anemia, decreases the risk of ovulatory infertility and plays a role in the production and function of red blood cells. Red meat is also a good source of vitamin B12 which is essential in the maintenance and development of the nervous system.
Honey - Honey has been used to enhance fertility throughout history as it is incredibly rich in the minerals and amino acids that nourish the reproductive system and stimulate ovarian function.
Whey protein powder - Getting enough protein in your diet can have a huge effect on fertility. If you do not get enough protein in your diet, consider a protein powder that is organic or raised without hormones and antibiotics, and the protein source should never be soy.
Spirulina - A tiny aquatic plant that has more protein than soy, more Vitamin A than carrots, more iron than beef, and is easy to digest.
Spinach - Spinach and other leafy greens are an excellent source of folic acid which is important in optimizing sperm production, facilitating regular, healthy ova production and helping to prevent neural tube defects during early pregnancy. It is also a great source of iron and vitamin C which helps to enhance sperm quality by protecting the DNA stored within it from damage.
Oysters -It is the abundance of zinc that gives it its fertility boosting qualities. Zinc is often considered to be the most important fertility nutrient as it has been shown to help with both healthy sperm and egg production.
Chillies - Have been known to increase the flow of blood around the body, ensuring that the reproductive system gets a healthy supply. Chillies also stimulate endorphin production which means more fertility boosting, stress releasing, happy hormones circulate around your body. But don’t eat them after ovulation/transfer.
Red, Orange, & Dark Geen Vegetables - Getting enough vegetables is important for boosting overall reproductive health.
Citrus Fruits- Contain folic acid and can help with fertility.
Legumes (beans, peas, lentils, garbanzo)-- A good source of protein that can aid with fertility.
Eggs - High in selenium to help create a healthy uterus for implantation. Also a great source of protein to help with egg and sperm quality.
Quinoa -- A superfood that is a great source of protein that is linked to fighting cancer and increasing fertility.
2 Liters of Filtered Water Per Day(preferably not bottles) -- It should be filtered and clean to help flush out toxins from the body and increase general reproductive health. Plastic bottles could have PCB chemicals that leak into the water and contribute to cancer and low fertility.
** Remember to take a prenatal vitamin daily with extra folic acid.
** Try to buy organic wherever possible, because chemicals in non-organic foods have been linked to infertility. All vegetables and dairy should be organic. Fish should be wild, chicken should be free-range or organic, all red meats should be grass fed or organic, All grains should be whole and naturally grown.
Fertility Food No-no's:
No Regular Bananas -- If you eat bananas, which is a good thing, you must buy organic. There is pretty clear evidence that a common agricultural chemical used in growing bananas effects sperm morphology and motility---to the point of sterilizing farm workers. The chemical is absorbed into the growing fruit, so peeling it doesn't help. So make sure your bananas are organic men!
Cut out all Alcohol -- Alcohol can reduce your fertility by up to 50%.
Cut out Caffeine -- Caffeine in coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate has been shown to reduce male & female fertility. As little as one cup of coffee a day can cut your chances of conception in half.
Cut out Junk Food, Processed Foot and Saturated Fats -- This speaks for itself, but you need to be sure that your body is gaining nutrients from food, not empty calories.
Do Not Diet -- Even though it's tempting to want to fit into those new jeans, diets could be counterproductive to fertility.
Decrease Sugar -- Refined sugars not only make you gain weight but can disrupt your body's blood sugar levels. They will initially give you energy but later on you will suffer from an abrupt crash, and even more fatigue.
No Artificial Sweetener -- Although there has been a great deal of debate, studies have found that artificial sweeteners, like aspartame, may be linked to cancer and decreased fertility.
Watch your Herbal Supplements: Some people swear by herbs, but many doctors feel that you should cut all herbs while on fertility medications, because they can interfere with the process. This includes herbal teas, even chamomile. Instead try steamed milk, hot lemon with water, or apple cider!
After Ovulation/Transfer avoid Fish: Don't eat sushi or any raw fish. Avoid fish that have high mercury content due to their environment—including swordfish, tilefish, king mackerel, shark, and shell fish.
No Soft Cheeses after Ovulation/Transfer: Avoid cheeses such as brie, feta, and anything that is creamy or unpasturized.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Temp Updates
This cycle is really weird .......... on CD22 (1 Feb) till CD24 (3 Feb) my temp raise to 36.2'C, CD 25 was 36.4'C, CD 27 & 28 at 36.5 .......... this morning CD28 it drop to 36.3'C.
I think my mens should be coming this few days .......... but I do hope for a miracle .......... a miracle to be preggy naturally so that I need not go thru the IVF treatment.
IVF is a very stressful journey ..........
I shall talk about it in the next posting.
I think my mens should be coming this few days .......... but I do hope for a miracle .......... a miracle to be preggy naturally so that I need not go thru the IVF treatment.
IVF is a very stressful journey ..........
I shall talk about it in the next posting.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Hormone gone haywire!
Its CD21 today and my tempreature is 35.8'C!
What's wrong with me?
I showed the TCM by temp tracking and she said I dont seem to be ovulating this month.
She didnt prescribe any medicine to me this time and just asked me to monitor by temp progress.
She told me relax and not let stress affect my hormonal imbalance.
What's wrong with me?
I showed the TCM by temp tracking and she said I dont seem to be ovulating this month.
She didnt prescribe any medicine to me this time and just asked me to monitor by temp progress.
She told me relax and not let stress affect my hormonal imbalance.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
No Sign of Ovulation
Today is CD17 and I've no sign of ovulation - body temp has been constant at 36.0'C.
The mid-cycle light bleed stopped on Monday (CD15).
I'm very worried since it's unusual for me not to ovulate at this time.
My ovulation should be around CD14 and by CD12, I should be able to feel the swell around my ovary area.
Maybe I'm too stressed which contributed to my "unusual cycle".
Need to calm myself down.
Should try not to think about ovulation and TTC .........
The mid-cycle light bleed stopped on Monday (CD15).
I'm very worried since it's unusual for me not to ovulate at this time.
My ovulation should be around CD14 and by CD12, I should be able to feel the swell around my ovary area.
Maybe I'm too stressed which contributed to my "unusual cycle".
Need to calm myself down.
Should try not to think about ovulation and TTC .........
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Mid-cycle Bleeding
Yesterday was CD13 and I was shocked to see some light bleeding and it continue today.
I was rather worried so I told my TCM this morning when I did my usual Sunday accupunture.
My BBT has been rather stable at 36.2'C and no sign of increasing.
When I told her (TCM) about the low temp and light spotting, she told me it's normal for to see some mid-cycle bleeding since it's ovulation "break through" bleeding due to the hormonal change.
She said this should only last for about 2 to 3 days and after which I should be able to see some body temp change.
I shall monitor and hopefully it's like what she said and I look forward to a high body temp.
I was rather worried so I told my TCM this morning when I did my usual Sunday accupunture.
My BBT has been rather stable at 36.2'C and no sign of increasing.
When I told her (TCM) about the low temp and light spotting, she told me it's normal for to see some mid-cycle bleeding since it's ovulation "break through" bleeding due to the hormonal change.
She said this should only last for about 2 to 3 days and after which I should be able to see some body temp change.
I shall monitor and hopefully it's like what she said and I look forward to a high body temp.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Health Supplement that I'm taking now
Just a summary of what health supplements I've been taking.
Morning
Cordycept pills (2 tabs in the morning empty stomach) for about 2 months.
After my morning shower (about 45mins interval), DHEA 2 x 25mg (about 2 months)
Take breakfast, then take 1 tab of COQ10 (50mg - about 2 weeks) + 2 tabs of Fish Oil
Reach office and settle down then take my TCM chinese herbs
Afternoon
After lunch, take 2 tabs each of Brands schisandra and chicken essence, 1 tab each of Vit B complex, folic acid & eye bright.
Vit C 500mg during tea time
Evening
Evening before dinner, take another tab of DHEA (25mg)
After dinner, rest for an hour then take the TCM chinese herbs.
Do you think I'm taking alot of supplements?
I hope I've managed to space out the supplements.
I really wish that the above can help boast my fertility well being.
Morning
Cordycept pills (2 tabs in the morning empty stomach) for about 2 months.
After my morning shower (about 45mins interval), DHEA 2 x 25mg (about 2 months)
Take breakfast, then take 1 tab of COQ10 (50mg - about 2 weeks) + 2 tabs of Fish Oil
Reach office and settle down then take my TCM chinese herbs
Afternoon
After lunch, take 2 tabs each of Brands schisandra and chicken essence, 1 tab each of Vit B complex, folic acid & eye bright.
Vit C 500mg during tea time
Evening
Evening before dinner, take another tab of DHEA (25mg)
After dinner, rest for an hour then take the TCM chinese herbs.
Do you think I'm taking alot of supplements?
I hope I've managed to space out the supplements.
I really wish that the above can help boast my fertility well being.
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