A woman’s diet before conception has an important role in her reproductive health. It affects fertility and early stages of pregnancy. Improper diet can have harmful effects on ovulation, menstruation and the onset of pregnancy. On the other hand, it can prevent conception because of insulin insensitivity, an excess of male hormones, hyperproduction of leptins, etc. It is well known that excess weight and obesity can lower the chance of conception and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.
Natural estrogen acts in synergy with progesterone and guards almost all vital functions important for women’s health in her reproductive period.
Lack of estrogen has numerous damaging effects on a woman’s health, and it is very important to take natural estrogen from foods as a preventive measure. Adequate intake is essential for maintaining the right hormonal balance. Phytoestrogens are substances which naturally contain steroid hormones. Isoflavones bind to Alfa and beta estrogen receptors in the body. At the same time, they work as antioxidants. Isoflavones are a type of phytoestrogens and are present in certain foods. It has been proven that eating phytoestrogens from soy (soybeans and soy products: tofu, soy milk, soy powder and soy protein), flaxseed (flax oil, or capsules), cabbage family vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower) and red clover tea stimulate estrogen secretion. As well, strawberries and apricots possess lignins which are converted in phytoestrogens in the digestive tract.
Mineral Boron increases the level of steroid hormones (present in apples, pears, legumes, peanuts and honey).
A balanced, hormone-regulating diet includes an adequate intake of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It is important to replace simple sugars like chocolate with complex sugars such as hazelnuts, almond, and walnuts. In addition, it is important to take omega-6 fats because of their role in hormone regulation.
Pumpkin and sunflower seeds should also be a part of the diet as they contain not only good fats but also carbohydrates important for the metabolism.
All microelements are also important for vitamin absorption (Fe, Zn, Cu, FL, Mg, Se). If we fail to intake enough vitamin A, C or E with our food, we need to use vitamin supplements.
We shouldn’t forget the importance of regular hydration (we need water for absorption and elimination). Enough sleep and an adequate rhythm, as well as appropriate physical activity, have positive effects on steroid hormone synthesis and their effect on the specific tissues. Simple sugars, caffeine, and alcohol have negative effects and cause hormonal imbalance.
In addition to a healthy diet, some medications have shown to have a positive effect on ovarian function and quality of life. For example Aspirin, Glucocorticoids, Growth hormone (GH), Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS), Sildenafil and others.
Enzymatic antioxidants are also very useful, such as Superoxide dismutase, Catalase, Glutathione system, as well as non-enzymatic antioxidants, such as vitamins or vitamin-like substances: Vitamin E, C, Selenium, Zinc, Folic Acid, Coenzyme Q10, Melatonin, Mio-Inositol, L-Carnitine, and others.