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Men's Fertility Toxins & Fertility

Fluoride & the Thyroid; The Fertility Connection

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist
September 7, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

As an herbalist, I want to empower and educate you as you navigate your fertility journey. Thyroid problems come up over and over again in my consultations with clients seeking to improve their fertility. Thyroid problems are at epidemic levels, especially among women! Thyroid disorders are estimated to affect 20 million Americans, and they clearly impact reproductive health. While numerous factors influence thyroid health, a new body of evidence suggests exposure to fluoride is a risk factor for many people today.

How The Thyroid Gland Impacts Fertility

For women, hypothyroidism or low thyroid activity is associated with increased risk of miscarriage, and reduced FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) levels- both needed for egg follicle maturation. For men, hypothyroidism is linked to reduced sperm volume and motility, and sperm defects. While there is less research on the topic, high thyroid levels are also associated with fertility issues like higher than normal testosterone and gonadotropin hormones, which may damage sperm.

Natural therapies play an important role in supporting healthy thyroid activity and, in turn, fertility. A good place to start is to avoid exposure to thyroid disrupters. The fluoride present in toothpaste, municipal water supplies, and non-organic foods (through the use of fluoride containing pesticides) is disruptive to healthy thyroid function, and is especially concerning.

The Dark Side of Fluoride

All forms of fluoride have the potential to be poisonous. The most toxic form is hydrofluosilicic acid, a by-product of the phosphate fertilizer industry. This is the substance added to fluoridate water. Yet, sodium fluoride (added to toothpaste) and even natural calcium fluoride are problematic at high doses.

Fluoride use has been controversial for decades. Yet, fluoride is still included in almost all toothpastes and added to up to 67% of U.S. public drinking water for its debatable role in fighting tooth decay. In 2015, the U.S. government lowered the recommended amount of fluoride added to drinking water for the first time in 50 years due to overexposure in our population.

Most developed countries have banned fluorides in their water. Europe is 98% fluoridation free. Here’s why… an increasing amount of evidence links fluoride to:

  • dental fluorosis (fluoride overload on the teeth)
  • potential increased cancer risk
  • fetal abnormalities
  • high hip fracture rates
  • pineal gland dysfunction
  • fertility problems
  • hypothyroidism

How Does Fluoride Affect the Thyroid?

The thyroid gland requires iodine to function properly in its role in governing metabolism. However, if the body is exposed to excess fluoride, the thyroid gland will uptake fluoride instead of iodine. (Fluoride is one of the most electronegative substances known, with a strong tendency to bond to other atoms.)

By displacing critical iodine, fluoride disrupts thyroid function and can lead to reduced thyroid activity. In fact, fluoride is such an effective anti-thyroid agent that it was prescribed through the 1950s in Europe and South America to suppress the thyroid in people with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Learn How To Support Your Thyroid Naturally With My Thyroid Mini-Course

  • Learn how to support your thyroid naturally with nutrition, supplements and plants.
  • Know how to tell whether your thyroid, endocrine system or/and adrenals needs support
  • Self-care therapies to support your thyroid and endocrine system

More proof in the research…

In 2006, the National Research Council found there was substantial evidence that fluoride exposure impacts thyroid health. Newer research from the UK shows that in areas where fluoride levels in the water are higher, the risk of having a high rate of hypothyroidism is 37% greater compared to areas where the water is not fluoridated.

This new research, while preliminary, suggests that as many as 15,000 people may be affected by hypothyroidism because of drinking fluoridated water! Here in the U.S., the numbers are likely even higher. Endocrinologists and holistic medical doctors are beginning to suggest that their hypothyroid clients avoid drinking fluoridated water and avoid using fluoride toothpastes.

What Can You Do To Protect Your Thyroid Gland?

It’s a good idea to do some research to find out whether your water supply is fluoridated. The Fluoride Action Network (http://fluoridealert.org/) is an excellent resource to find out about water fluoridation in your community. Non-fluoridated water, either from bottles or water-filtration systems, may be a better option for people prone to thyroid issues who are living in fluoridated areas.

In addition, avoid dental fluoride treatments, and switch to fluoride-free toothpastes. You can support your thyroid gland nutritionally by including plenty of iodine from foods like: organic seaweed, mushrooms, garlic, onions, watercress, and wild seafood or fish from uncontaminated waters. Using a thyroid supporting supplement can also be helpful. Further, choose organic whenever possible to avoid fluoride-containing pesticides leeched onto conventionally grown foods.

Click here to learn more about a nutritional and herbal supplement for thyroid health…

References

  • About Hypothyroidism. (2016). American Thyroid Association. Thyroid.org. Retrieved from: https://www.thyroid.org/hypothyroidism/
  • Clark, Jim (2013, March). Electronegativity. Chemguide.co.uk. Retrieved from: http://www.chemguide.co.uk/basicorg/bonding/eneg.html
  • Fluoride’s Impact on the Thyroid Gland (2006) National Resource Council. Retrieved from: http://fluoridealert.org/studies/nrc_thyroid/
  • Fluoride in Water and Underactive Thyroid Rates (2015, Feb). Web MD. Retrieved from: http://www.webmd.com/women/news/20150225/fluoride-in-drinking-water-tied-to-higher-rates-of-underactive-thyroid
  • Mercola, J. (2015, March) Water Fluoridation Promotes Thyroid Impairment, Study Suggests. Mercola.com. Retrieved from: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/03/10/water-fluoridation-thyroid-dysfunction.aspx
  • Peckham, S., Lowery D., & Spencer S. (2015) Are fluoride levels in drinking water associated with hypothyroidism prevalence in England? A large observational study of GP practice data and fluoride levels in drinking water. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health doi:10.1136/jech-2014-204971. Retrieved from: http://jech.bmj.com/content/early/2015/02/09/jech-2014-204971
  • Thyroid. (2016) FluorideAlert.gov. Retrieved from: http://fluoridealert.org/issues/health/thyroid/
  • Sircus, M. (2011, Nov.). Iodine Protects Against Fluoride Toxicity. Dr. Sircus.com. Retrieved from: http://drsircus.com/medicine/iodine/iodine-protects-fluoride-toxicity

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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

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  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

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☕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. 👇👇

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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

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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. 👇👇

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⭐ 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 👇

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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.

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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 👇👇

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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

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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. 🐝

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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

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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

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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

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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….👇👇

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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

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When in doubt get it checked out. 

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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.

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Over the past 20+ years that I have been an herbalist I have seen what herbs can do to help turn someone’s health around. 

When it comes to fertility there are a lot of different herbs that you can use. But they all have different actions. There is no one herb that fits all for fertility. 

That is one of the reasons I make herbal blends & formulas. 

Three of my favorite herbs are vitex, maca and shatavari, but they each have different effects on the body. 

So the key to success with fertility herbs is to first figure out what is going on in your body and then you can pick the right herbal formula for you. 

You can do this by charting your fertility (I have a lot of posts about fertility charting on my feed as well as my website) and also paying attention to your period. 🩸

To learn more about my herbal formulas for fertility support type HERBS in the comments below and I’ll share a link to my formulas 👇👇

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👇READ THIS if you have a regular period but still haven’t gotten pregnant…. 

The answer is YES. The menstruation phase of a monthly fertility cycle is only one stage of the cycle. 

There are many other times of the month that are even more important like: 

🌸 Follicular phase: When the lining is growing and follicles are maturing

🌸 Ovulation: When the egg is released

🌸 Implantation: When the fertilized egg implants

🌸 Luteal phase: The time period between ovulation and the next cycle needs to be long enough for implantation to occur. 

Wondering how to start supporting your fertility naturally? 

👇 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. 👇

#periods #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

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Endometriosis can impact fertility and having a healthy pregnancy. 

Preparing ahead of time and taking the steps can make a big difference. 

Type ENDO in the comments below if you would like my natural guide to supporting your fertility regardless of having endometriosis....💛👇
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