If you're trying to conceive, a nutritionist can help you get pregnant in some cases. As you know, there are a lot of factors that can affect your chances of success. Your age, your partner's health, and your medical history all play a role. But did you know that your diet can also have a big impact on your fertility?

Nutrition and PCOS

One of the most common conditions that can affect fertility is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. It can cause irregular periods, weight gain, and difficulty getting pregnant.

There are many things you can do to manage the symptoms of PCOS and improve your chances of getting pregnant. One of the most important things is to make healthy changes to your diet.

Strategic dietary choices can help you regulate insulin levels, reduce androgen production, improve menstrual regularity, and increase the chances of ovulation and successful conception. 

Key dietary goals for PCOS management include:

1. Balancing Carbohydrate Intake: Choosing carbohydrates with a lower glycemic index (GI) (like whole grains, legumes and some fruits) can help regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support hormone balance. Refined carbohydrates and sugary foods should only be eaten in moderation.

2. Prioritizing Nutrient-Rich Foods: Incorporating nutrient-dense foods - colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats - into your diet ensures you obtain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support reproductive health.

3. Boosting Egg Quality: The right dietary choices, like including omega-3 rich fish, eggs, nuts and seeds, can boost your egg health and increase your chances of implantation.

4. Supporting Gut Health: A healthy gut microbiome is linked to improved hormonal balance and overall well-being. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, as well as fiber from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can help you nurture a healthy gut environment.

5. Incorporating Anti-inflammatory Foods: Chronic inflammation can exacerbate PCOS symptoms and interfere with fertility. Including anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, nuts, seeds, olive oil, turmeric, and leafy greens can help reduce inflammation and support reproductive health.

A fertility nutritionist can provide valuable guidance and support in implementing an optimal diet plan tailored to your unique needs.

What is a Fertility Nutritionist?

A fertility nutritionist is a registered dietitian who specializes in helping people improve their fertility through diet and lifestyle changes. They have a deep understanding of the relationship between nutrition and fertility, and they can help you identify any nutritional deficiencies that may be affecting your chances of getting pregnant.

We can also help you create a personalized plan to help you make healthy changes to your diet. This plan will take into account your individual needs and goals, and it will be tailored to help you improve your fertility.

Can a Fertility Nutritionist Help Me Lose Weight?

The short answer is yes, we certainly can. BUT there’s much more to it than that. Weight gain is not the root cause of PCOS. And I find that many people overemphasize losing weight in their PCOS journey. They focus on trying to cut calories, but that just causes them to lose out on the many ways you can improve your fertility by eating the right foods. It also feeds the needless guilt many women with PCOS feel about their weight.

The right fertility nutritionist will first find the root cause of your PCOS, and then create a personal plan based on that. And it won’t always involve weight loss as a main goal.

Can't I Make Changes on My Own?

Yes, absolutely, you can make changes to your diet on your own. But while making healthy lifestyle changes independently is a great start, the guidance of a fertility nutritionist can make a big difference in your fertility journey. 

Here's why:

• Personalized Approach: A fertility nutritionist will assess your individual needs, taking into account factors such as hormonal imbalances, underlying conditions, and overall health, something that would be difficult for the average person to do on their own. We can provide targeted recommendations tailored to your specific situation.

• Expertise in Fertility Nutrition: Fertility nutritionists have extensive knowledge of the intricate relationship between nutrition and reproductive health. They stay up to date with the latest research and can provide evidence-based guidance to optimize your chances of conception.

• Addressing Nutrient Deficiencies: A fertility nutritionist can identify potential nutrient deficiencies that may be impacting your fertility. They can help you incorporate fertility-boosting foods rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to enhance reproductive function.

• Hormonal Balance: Hormonal imbalances can disrupt ovulation and overall reproductive health. A fertility nutritionist can guide you in making dietary choices that support hormone balance, reducing the risk of irregular cycles and optimizing your fertility.

So, a fertility nutritionist can provide you with the expertise and support you need to make lasting changes, tracking your progress along the way. Working with a nutritionist can give you confidence and peace of mind that you are doing all the right things for your personal circumstances. And less stress is important when ttc!

What to Look for in a Fertility Nutritionist

When you are looking for a fertility nutritionist, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Make sure the nutritionist is a registered dietitian. This means they have the education and training necessary to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information.

• Look for a nutritionist who specializes in fertility. This will ensure that they have the knowledge and experience to help you improve your fertility through diet and lifestyle changes.

• Make sure the nutritionist is a good fit for you. You should feel comfortable with them and confident that they can help you achieve your goals.

A Helping Hand

If you are interested in learning more about fertility nutrition coaching, I encourage you to check out my fertility nutrition coaching,  PCOS Fertility Course, or our PCOS remedy bootcamp. I am passionate about helping women with PCOS through a dieting-free nutritional approach.

If you are trying to conceive, making healthy changes to your diet is an excellent way to improve your chances of success. As a PCOS and fertility dietician, I can provide you with the expertise and support you need to make lasting, meaningful changes!