For many couples, getting pregnant is not as easy as 1,2, 3…
In fact, for an increasing number of couples, as many as 1 in 6, falling pregnant is more than tough, it’s stressful, frustrating and can lead to feelings of inadequacy. It can also test even the strongest of relationships.
But could something as simple as the mineral zinc be the missing link?
What are some of the main causes of infertility?
It’s estimated that about 40% of infertility is due to the male, although most men wouldn’t like to admit it and 40% is due to the female and far too many women would assume it’s their “fault”.
Some common causes of infertility include:
– low sperm count
– abnormal sperm
– PCOS and other hormonal issues such as endometriosis or poor ovulation
– stress
– unexplained issues
Any or all of these conditions may be exacerbated by a toxic lifestyle, intake of social poisons (alcohol and/or tobacco), poor diet or obesity.
But there IS hope! Clinical research has shown again and again that improving the health of both prospective parents through natural measures can enhance fertility and lead to a successful pregnancy.
The natural approach
That old adage, “you are what you eat” is so apt when it comes to getting pregnant. Nutrients are vitally important to your fertility. Zinc is one of the most crucial ones as it is critical for both the male and female but unfortunately too many people don’t absorb enough in their diet. For the guy, zinc deficiency is linked to poor sperm count and lower testosterone and I’m sure you don’t need me to explain why they’re so important!
For the female, zinc affects the quality of the egg and ovulation. We women are also susceptible to cracked nipples, perineal tears, stretch marks, prolonged labour and hair loss if our zinc levels are low during pregnancy. Who wants to put up with any of them?!
And when it comes to your new baby, if you want to minimize pregnancy complications and have a baby with a healthier birth weight, you might want to consider eating zinc-rich foods and/or zinc supplementation. And there’s more! Zinc is paramount when it comes to cell division and DNA synthesis, which occurs at an amazing rate once a sperm fertilises an egg; in the first 3 months the new foetus increases by an amazing 2.5 million times compared to a “mere” 230 times in each of the subsequent semesters. And that’s just one single nutrient! So you see, what you eat really does affect your health AND that of your future baby.
That’s why following a preconception programme for at least 3 months prior to conceiving can help optimise your chances of falling pregnant and of having a healthy baby. It’s not just about what you put in your mouth but also means cleaning up your home AND your body! It took over 12 months for me to conceive but it was a journey that was so worth it. My own experience is what inspires me to help other couples like you trying to conceive.