• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Nutrition Toxins & Fertility

Fertility Diet Tip: Be Cautious of Anti-Fertility Fats!

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist
September 29, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

The good news: You don’t have to eliminate fats from your diet in order to be healthy and improve your fertility! Essential fats like omega 3’s, 6’s and 9’s are healthy for your reproductive system when consumed as part of a balanced Fertility Diet.

Essential fats help to regulate hormones, increase circulation to the uterus, promote cervical mucus, and balance the menstrual cycle.

However, not all fats are good sources of essential fats. Hydrogenated oils and trans fats are counterproductive to any natural fertility program. Further, some otherwise healthy foods contain rancid fats that you don’t want in your fertility diet either.

“Bad Fats” To Avoid and Why

Hydrogenated Oils

Food manufacturers use the hydrogenation process in order to extend a food’s shelf life (make it shelf stable), prevent rancidity and enhance food texture. The hydrogenation process feeds hydrogen molecules through a polyunsaturated oil to reconstruct its chemical bonds and create stability. The end result is an artificial fat that withstands heat and has a good consistency for baked goods. Here’s one example: hydrogenation converts corn oil to a semi solid margarine. The problem being that fats, especially unsaturated fat, have a tendency to break down and oxidize when exposed to heat and air, rendering them harmful.

Although in the U.S. the FDA has taken steps to ban partially hydrogenated oils, they will be available in foods on grocery store shelves in the U.S. until June 2018. For optimal health and fertility, avoid any foods with hydrogenated oils and partially hydrogenated oils on the ingredient list until the ban takes effect.

Common foods with hydrogenated oils or partially hydrogenated oils in the ingredient list are: soybean oil, palm oil (palm kernel oil), baked goods, fried foods, fast foods, processed snack foods like crackers, desserts, frosting, pastries, shortening, margarine, coffee creamers, and many more.

Trans Fats

Trans fats are byproducts of the hydrogenation process. Although they can withstand heat, they are comparable to animal fats in terms of saturation and negative health effects. The amount of trans fats in foods containing hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils varies from food to food. You need to take a close look at food labels to determine the trans-fat content of any processed foods you’re considering purchasing.

Trans fats have numerous negative health effects:

  • They can raise bad cholesterol (LDL) and decrease good cholesterol (HDL).
  • They are linked to increased cancer risk, skin aging, and decreased immune health.
  • Trans fats may also increase risk for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Research from the American Journal of Public Health finds trans fats may be linked to 30,000 heart disease deaths every year!
  • Trans fats also affect your ability to metabolize essentials fats, which are critical for health and fertility.

Trans fats and your fertility…
Research from the Harvard School of Public Health shows that the more trans fats a woman eats, the higher her risk for fertility problems. Eating trans fats triggers inflammation, and affects insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, common issues in women who are overweight or those with PCOS. Women with PCOS should take great care to avoid trans fats so as to not worsen their symptoms.

2007 Research from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveals trans fats may also disrupt ovulation. Women who eat more trans fats compared to monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats have double the risk of ovulatory infertility. Trans fats have also been linked to decreased sperm count in animal tests and preliminary human research.

Plant-based essential fats offer more fertility benefits: avocado, coconut or olive oil, chia/flax/hemp/sunflower seeds, dark greens and seaweed.

Interested in learning more? Our guide Trans Fats May Increase Infertility Issues would be worth reading.

Rancid Fats

What about rancid fats? Are raw nuts as healthy as you think? As much as I love raw nuts and nut butters as sources of essential fats and protein, their oils are highly susceptible to rancidity.

Oxidized, rancid fat is very hard to digest and creates liver stress, especially for people with weak digestive systems. Consuming rancid fats can also increase free-radical production, and potentially damage egg and sperm health.

It’s important to make sure your raw nuts and nut butter are very fresh when working on your fertility. Be very selective and try to opt for nuts only grown in your state or very close to you when they’re in season. Seeds can be a better choice as they are more resistant to oxidation.

The best states for nuts: California (Almonds, Walnuts (except during droughts)), Oregon (Hazelnuts), Georgia, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arizona, South Carolina (Peanuts, Pecans), New Mexico, Nevada, Colorado (Pine Nuts) and Hawaii (Pecans, Macadamia nuts).


Watch The Introduction to the 21 Day Fertility Diet Challenge

  • Learn how to transition to a natural fertility diet by focusing on the important 5
  • Get all the details on how to use nutrition as a tool for hormonal health, cell protection and fertility wellness
  • An effective tool to help your tastebuds transition towards healthier foods
  • Learn which foods are most important for fertility and how to regularly eat them
WATCH THE INTRODUCTION TO THE 21 DAY FERTILITY DIET CHALLENGE

The Bottom Line on Bad Fats and Your Fertility

The best way to avoid artificial fats like hydrogenated oils, partially hydrogenated oils, and trans fats is by shopping the parameters, outer aisles, of the grocery store. Always choose whole, unprocessed foods rather than eating fast food or foods out of a box, especially when working on a fertility concern.

Limit saturated fats from non-organic animal foods. Choose whole, fresh plant sources of monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats instead.

Nuts and seeds are good sources of essential fats and protein, but make sure they are fresh and stored properly (refrigerate or freeze them). Healthy oils in nuts like walnuts or almonds go rancid during long shipment times from state to state. Seeds have a higher resistance to rancidity, and may be a better choice if you live in a state without access to fresh nuts.

Eating a Fertility Diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, high-quality organic protein sources, whole grains, and essential fats enhances nutrition and fertility, while decreasing exposure to artificial fats and foods that can harm your health and reproductive system.

References

  • Page, L. & Abernathy, S.(2011). Healthy Healing 14th Edition. Healthy Healing Pub.
  • Fooducate (2010, Oct.). Partially vs. Fully Hydrogenated Oils. Retrieved from: http://www.fooducate.com/app#!page=post&id=57A33225-7882-F994-4D15-92306378627F
  • Resnik, D. (2010). Trans Fat Bans and Human Freedom. The American Journal of Bioethics, 10(3), 27-32. doi:10.1080/15265160903585636. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3941190/
  • The Nutrition Source: Types of Fats (2016). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Retrieved from: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/types-of-fat/
  • Barton-Schuster, D.(n.d.). Good News For Fertility: FDA Bans Trans Fats from Food in the US. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/fda-bans-trans-fats.html
  • Breyer, M.(2015, April). 5 Nuts Not Grown in California. Retrieved from: http://www.treehugger.com/green-food/5-nuts-not-primarily-grown-california.html

« Previous Post
Success Story: Camille Successfully Supports Every Aspect of Her Fertility Health
Next Post »
Fertility Herb Guide: PCOS

About the Author

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist

Sarah has worked in the field of natural foods and herbalism for over 20 years. She's the Co-Author of "Healthy Healing" with over 1 million copies sold, a Certified Herbalist, and a health and wellness consultant. Sarah Graduated from the Professional Herbal Studies program at East West School of Herbology, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English from St. Mary's College. Working with women on their journey to wellness is her passion and she loves to share what she has been blessed to learn from naturopaths and other herbalists over the years.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Feb 1

Open
🍓 Antioxidant Rich Fertility Smoothie Recipe:

Feel free to add some superfoods if you like (such as greens powder, protein, maca, etc..)

1C Mango
1/2 C Strawberries
1/2 C Blueberries
1/2 C Almond yogurt
Nut milk

➡️ Blend together and adjust liquid so it is a thickness you enjoy. Top with nuts or seeds if you are making a smoothie bowl. Enjoy!

🍹If you would like to learn more about eating for your fertility type in FOOD and I will send you a link to my 21 Day Fertility Diet Challenge. 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Feb 1

Open
After focusing on creating a healthy body, Chavonne had her "miracle" baby at 41. Read more about her story...

****While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Feb 1

Open
Also knowing when your most fertile time is going to be VERY important. Two ways to do that? Fertility Charting and OPK tests.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 31

Open
☕Reproductive Support Tea contains herbs that support, tone, and nourish the female reproductive system while supporting hormone balance.

It’s a soothing and effective fertility tea that provides just the right mixture of beneficial fertility herbs designed to help:

1️⃣ Nourish the uterus*

2️⃣ Support fallopian tube health.*

3️⃣ Help maintain normal ovarian function.*

4️⃣ Encourage normal uterine health.*

5️⃣ Support hormonal balance.

Type ‘TEA’ in the comments below if you would like 10% off your first order or Reproductive Support Tea and I will DM you a discount link. 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 31

Open
👇3 Ways To Naturally Support Ovulation 👇

Lack of ovulation is one of the most common causes of infertility.

BUT you can help support your body to regularly ovulate again when hormonal health is found.

Here are some steps you can take to support yourself….

1️⃣ Eat healthy fats like avocado, chia, flax, nuts & seeds

2️⃣ Eat an abundance of whole foods 🥦🍉🥗🍇

3️⃣ Increase circulation to the reproductive system through exercise, Self Fertility Massage and castor oil packs.

👇 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the steps you can take to support your fertility cycle. 👇

#ovulation #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
🌱 Ashwagandha is one of my favorite herbs for stress support while trying to conceive. 

It is easy to use and the calming effects can be felt pretty quickly after starting the herb. 

➡️ The hormonal support results take a bit longer, as with any hormone supportive herb, but is wonderful for both women and men who are experiencing high stress and hormone imbalances. 

Type ASH in the comments below and I will share which Ashwagandha I recommend and how to use it for fertility support. 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
Q: I have a 24 day cycle. What is this saying about my fertility?

A: Swipe left for our answer...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
⭐ 3 Benefits of Vitex for Fertility…

1️⃣ Regulates hormones: Vitex, also known as chasteberry, is known to regulate the production of hormones such as luteinizing hormone and prolactin, which can help to balance out estrogen and progesterone levels, promoting fertility.

2️⃣ Improves ovulation: Vitex can help to regulate the menstrual cycle and improve ovulation in women with irregular cycles or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

3️⃣ Decreases symptoms of PMS: Vitex can also help to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as cramps, breast tenderness, and mood swings, which can improve overall health and well-being.

Want to know which Vitex I recommend and how to use it? Type VITEX in the comments below 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 29

Open
🌱 Red raspberry leaf has been used by midwives for fertility for generations. Some of the most well known benefits of raspberry leaf for reproductive support include… 

1️⃣ Regulating menstrual cycles: Red raspberry leaf is believed to help balance hormones and regulate menstrual cycles, making it easier for women to conceive.

2️⃣ Strengthening the uterus: Red raspberry leaf is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin C, which are believed to help strengthen the uterus and prepare it for pregnancy.

3️⃣ Improving egg quality: Some studies suggest that red raspberry leaf may improve egg quality and increase the chances of conception.

4️⃣ Reducing morning sickness: Red raspberry leaf is also believed to help reduce the symptoms of morning sickness, which can be especially beneficial for women who are trying to conceive.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 29

Open
🧪 Xenohormones are chemicals that mimic the effects of hormones in the body. 

They can disrupt the endocrine system, which controls the production, transport, and function of hormones. 🚫

This can lead to a variety of health problems, including fertility issues. 

Examples of xenohormones include certain pesticides, plastics, and phthalates. 🕯️

Exposure to these chemicals can affect the production of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, which play key roles in fertility. 

Xenohormones can also affect ovulation and implantation of a fertilized egg, leading to infertility. 

It would be best to avoid these chemicals as much as possible. 

👇👇To  learn more about which chemicals to avoid and which products are most important to replace type in ‘TOXIC’ in the comments below to get my guide to Creating a Healthy Home for Fertility Pregnancy & Family 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
The body is always giving us feedback to what is happening inside. How regularly you go to the bathroom shares a lot about your digestive health.... as does a bloated belly or gas. Your period or monthly cycle can share a lot about your hormonal state. Your skin can share how your liver is doing. And so on. What have you learned from listening to your body?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
🕯️Chemicals in candles, such as paraffin and phthalates, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. 

Some research suggests that certain VOCs, such as phthalates, may disrupt hormone balance by mimicking estrogen and other hormones in the body. 🚫

It’s always a good idea to choose candles made from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy wax, which produce fewer VOCs. 🐝

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 27

Open
5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 27

Open
Preparing for pregnancy is one of the best steps you can take for a healthy pregnancy and child. Here are some steps to help you get started…. 👇

1️⃣ Eat a diet high in fiber. More fruits and veggies

Fiber helps the body to get rid of excess hormones and fruits and veggies are packed with fiber. They also are very hydrating and have lots of nutrients. All are useful for someone with heavy cycles. 

2️⃣ Learn about your fertility cycle through tracking and charting

Fertility charting will help you to understand your current hormonal state, when or if you are ovulating and other information about your cycle that will help to bring clarity to your fertility path. 

3️⃣ Fertility Cleanse 1-2x per year

The first phase of the Fertility Cleanse is a great way to help support the liver in it’s natural ability to get rid of excess hormones. The second phase focuses on the uterus and helping the uterus to cleanse and increase circulation.

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
💡It can be completely normal for your menstrual cycle to vary in length slightly from month to month! 

Ovulation may come a day before or a day later even in normal some cycles. 

We actually expect to see natural variations between menstrual cycles. 

Early ovulation can be concerning, however, when/if it consistently happens. 

➡️ If you would like to learn what you can do to help balance a short follicular phase type EARLY in the comments below and I will send you a link to my guide….👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
Are you experiencing fibroids? 👇 Type FIBROID in the comments below and I will send you a link to my natural guide. 🌱

#fibroid #fibroids #naturalfertility #fibroidfertility #fibroiddiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
Intimacy may not be something at the top of your mind with everything else you are doing to TTC. But connection with your partner and you feeling.... good is important. Here are some natural ways to support libido if the stress of baby making has made things tense in the bedroom.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 25

Open
When in doubt get it checked out. 

One of the most common reasons I suggest women to see their doctors is when they are experiencing  a heavy period that doesn’t stop after 5-7 days and has heavy flow. 

There are many different reasons this could be happening, but we first want to make sure it isn’t something that requires medical assistance before going on to healthy lifestyle support.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 25

Open
Ovarian cysts are more common than you think, and there are ways you can support your body naturally. Type CYSTS in the comments below and I will send you the natural steps you can take to support your self.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us