For many women, #ovulation passes by unnoticed – but when it’s not working properly it can impact on more than your fertility. Naturopath Janella Purcell looks at improving ovarian health naturally.
See FULL Article:Ovulation issues and natural healing
Foods for healthy ovaries:
1. Wholegrains: Barley, rye, spelt, freekeh, brown rice, millet and amaranth.
2. Foods high in chromium: These foods help fight insulin resistance and control sugar cravings. They include sweet potato, corn, wholegrains (see above), seafood, apples, oranges, bananas and vegies such as tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, onion, garlic, basil, lettuce, chilli, green capsicum, beetroot and mushrooms.
3. Dark leafy greens: Baby and English spinach, Asian greens, beet and turnip greens, rocket, kale (see right) and parsley. These nutrient-packed vegies
are high in calcium, vitamin C, folate and magnesium.
4. Quinoa: The Incas called it “the mother grain”, although it’s not actually a grain but a seed from a herb that grows at very high altitudes. It’s packed with protein, calcium and fibre. Use it as you would rice or try the noodles, flour or milk.
5. Flaxseeds: They contain hormone-balancing lignans and phytoestrogens (plant sources of oestrogen) that help to stabilise a woman’s oestrogen-progesterone ratio, which helps regulate ovulation. They are also anti-inflammatory, assist with weight loss and act as an anti-depressant.
6. Kale: This superfood has more antioxidants than any other vegie. It’s loaded with calcium, which plays an important role in egg maturation and follicle development in the ovaries.
7. Sesame, sunflower and poppy seeds: These are a great source of vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium and fatty acids. On top of that, they provide a very good source of zinc, which is known to aid reproductive health.
8. Licorice root: This has been shown to reduce testosterone, which can be a problem when it comes to normal ovarian functioning. Avoid excessive amounts if you are on blood-thinning drugs or have any heart condition, such as elevated blood pressure.
9. Legumes: These are full of protein, fibre and B vitamins. They are also a great source of complex carbohydrates that will help keep your blood sugar even and reduce cravings.
10. Herbs: Paeonia is specifically for managing ovarian health, while echinacea boosts the immune system, chaste tree balances your hormones, and gymnema is for insulin resistance
and blood-sugar imbalances.
What to AVOID:
- Caffeine, alcohol, too many soy products, refined and processed oils, red meat and dairy, sugar and refined carbohydrates.
- Reduce or quit smoking and practise yoga and some form of cardio. Underlying stress must be reduced, especially around relationships and money.
