If it’s January, it’s Veganuary. The effect of healthy food on body is well documented. Food influences the way our body works, can help with fertility issues or can make us happier (dark chocolate, we are looking at you!).
If you decided to join Veganuary and eat only a plant-based diet, Dr Divya Manglam, our resident Nutritionist at Harley Street Fertility Clinic, can give you some advice on the best foods to eat. Dr Manglam (MSc Fertility Nutrition) advises a diet “is all about balance”.
Dr Manglam’s Top Tips to Vegans:
- Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) is a root vegetable, packed with essential nutrients, a great source of fibre, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. It increases the blood flow - a great blood flow to the uterus is essential for a successful pregnancy. To thicken the lining of the uterus, beetroot juice is recommended daily, in combination with other superfoods that increase blood flow like pomegranate or berries. The folate in beetroot help reduce the risk of miscarriages and might help with embryo implantation. Beetroot is highly recommended during pregnancy to avoid neural tube defects in a growing baby, such as spina bifida.
- Ginger: Helps with inflammation which can adversely impact the reproductive system as it reduces blood circulation- vital for ovulation, menstrual cycle and fertilisation.
- Oranges: An excellent source of antioxidants as it contains vitamin C, fibre, Calcium and Potassium. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that promotes fertility and prevents the decline of ovarian function with age. It also helps with developing healthy eggs.
- Turmeric: treats menstrual cycle issues like irregular periods, PCOS, endometriosis, ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids. It also stimulates the blood flow to the pelvic area and uterus.
- Avocado is filled with a good source of folate, potassium, good (monounsaturated) fats and antioxidants.
- Oats are a great source of fibre, balance the blood sugar and keep you full for longer.
- Adding protein in each meal is very important- lentils, tofu, edamame beans, tempeh, chickpeas, peanuts, pumpkin seeds (adding them into snacks), kidney beans etc.
- Cow's milk can be replaced with soy milk, almond milk, oat milk and coconut milk.
If you would like to find out how food can influence your fertility, to have a personalised diet plan, or to book an appointment with our resident nutritionist Dr Divya Maglam, please call us on 020 7436 6838.