Episode 22: fertility with sandra greenbank

29 Jul

Healthily | 07/29/21

Fertility is understandably a hot topic, but I sometimes get a bit disheartened by the amount of fear mongering that’s put out on social media about all the terrible things we might unwittingly be doing or exposing ourselves to, that could affect our chances of conceiving.

While I’m a firm believer that knowledge is power, there’s a happy balance that needs to be struck, and when it comes to a subject as emotive as getting pregnant, we must acknowledge how vulnerable someone who is desperate for a child might be.

It’s for this reason I wanted to capture a conversation with Sandra Greenbank that focussed more on the positives of what we can easily do to improve our chances of conceiving, because there are so many!

What I admire about Sandra is the reason for her desire to help people have healthy babies. Following an impactful experience within her own family unit, Sandra saw first hand that without our health, we have nothing. It was this realisation that compelled her to focus on working in the field of fertility, in order to support families and help the health of future generations to come.

I hope this episode brings information, support, practical advice, joy and optimism to anyone who is interested in this important subject.

Thank you to Mother Root for sponsoring this episode. Their delicious alcohol free drink is perfect for anyone trying to conceive, or who’s currently pregnant. Use code HEALTHILY15 for a 15% discount before the end of September 2021.

TAKEAWAYs

✔️ Fertility Starts Before Conception

Preparing your body 3 months before trying to conceive positively impacts egg and sperm health.

Nutrition, sleep, and stress management are crucial during this period.
The concept of “fertility preparation” benefits the whole family long-term.

✔️ Nutrition for Fertility

Mediterranean-style diet: Emphasis on vegetables, whole grains, oily fish, poultry, minimal red meat, and seasonal produce.

Key nutrients:

Folate (or folic acid): Prevents neural tube defects. Best sourced from leafy greens; supplementation recommended. Consider methylated folate if MTHFR genetic variant is present.
Choline: Supports methylation, egg, and sperm health; found in eggs.
Omega-3 fats: From oily fish, walnuts, flax seeds; consider supplements if needed.

Food first approach: Whole foods are preferred over supplements when possible.

✔️ Lifestyle and Movement

Fertility yoga: Opens the pelvis, improves blood flow to reproductive organs, and supports emotional wellbeing. Couples can benefit from wordless connection poses.
Regular movement: Maintains circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports metabolic and reproductive health.
Sleep hygiene: Essential for hormone regulation, melatonin production, and fertility. Limit screen time, maintain a consistent schedule.

✔️ Male Fertility Matters

Male partner health is equally important—sleep, diet, and lifestyle affect sperm quality.
Semen analysis can detect sperm count, motility, shape, and DNA fragmentation.
Interventions for male fertility can significantly impact conception success.

✔️ Emotional Wellbeing

Fertility struggles are emotionally taxing; grief, trauma, and stress affect hormones and inflammation.
Addressing unresolved trauma can improve conception outcomes.
Activities that foster connection (shared meals, mindfulness, couples’ yoga) enhance emotional resilience.

✔️ Supplements and Considerations

High-quality fertility or prenatal multivitamins recommended.
Prefer food-state or methylated forms of nutrients (folate, B vitamins) for better absorption.
Avoid over-reliance on synthetic supplements; dietary intake is primary.

✔️ Practical Tips

Consult your GP or private clinics for fertility investigations (semen analysis, blood tests, scans).
Independent health food shops or online providers offer quality fertility supplements .
Take proactive steps—nutrition, sleep, movement, and emotional support—to empower your fertility journey.