• 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 Men's Fertility Toxins & Fertility

Why Grass-Fed Beef Is Better For Fertility

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 17, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Grass-Fed vs. conventional meat… which is better? Is there really a difference?

The organic/grass-fed vs. conventional food choice may be a new to you, but did you know that studies have shown that grass-fed beef is higher in certain nutrients shown to be important for fertility?

These studies also show that cows who are allowed to roam free and munch their natural diet of grasses are healthier than those raised on a feedlot.

Studies spanning three decades show that grass-fed beef is richer in essential fatty acids, contains more antioxidants, and has a lower fat content compared to grain-fed beef. Lower fat content, better nutritional rating, reduced exposure to environmental toxins, and better living conditions make grass-fed beef a better food choice than grain-fed beef.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid

Grass-fed beef has been shown to have twice the amount of omega-3 essential fatty acid than grain-fed beef.

Omega-3 EFAs contain two acids that are crucial to good health: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). Low levels of DHA and EPA have been linked to depression and other mental health issues.

DHA is essential for proper brain development, while EPA supports healthy behavior and mood.

Omega-3 has been shown to play an important role for healthy fertility by aiding the body in regulation of hormones, improving cervical mucous production, promoting regular ovulation and reducing inflammation, which may cause painful menstruation.

DHA has a significant impact on the viability and health of sperm. When there are not enough fatty acids present, cholesterol replaces the needed fatty acid in the sperm membrane. This prevents sperm from proper maturation. This, in turn, helps create more free radicals, which damage any healthy sperm that may be present. This is a great segue to talk about the beneficial antioxidants found to be in higher concentration in grass-fed beef.

What creates the abundance of omega-3s in grass-fed beef? A diet rich in a variety of grasses and clover rich in omega-3.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect the body’s cells from free radical damage. Grass-based diets elevate precursors for Vitamin A and E, and the antioxidants glutathione and superoxide dismutase.

Glutathione plays a key role in the detoxification of pollutants from the liver and the body. It is also one of the most important defenders of a cell’s immune system. Glutathione is involved in regulating the pathway that activates genes that can cause chronic inflammation.

So, in other words, it can suppress the ‘bad’ genes that trigger autoimmune issues. This is valuable to those with autoimmune-related fertility issues such as antisperm antibodies, immunologically-induced recurrent miscarriage, and endometriosis.

Lower Fat Content = Reduced Exposure to GMOs & Xenohormones

A lower fat content means less exposure to fats that negatively affect cholesterol levels, but also to environmental toxins that affect hormonal balance.

The main grain used to feed cattle is corn. Most of the corn in the United States is genetically modified (GMO) and heavily sprayed with pesticides, herbicides, synthetic fertilizers. Many of these toxins are considered xenohormones.

Xenohormones have the ability to mimic our natural hormones. Studies have shown that regular exposure and consumption of these harmful toxins can create hormonal imbalance through endocrine disruption and suppresses immune function, which can negatively impact reproductive function.

When you eat non-organic meats, you are doubly exposed to these toxins. This is because xenohormones become more concentrated as they move up the food chain. Fat cells store toxins and excess hormones. The fattier the meat you are consuming, the more xenohormones you are consuming.

Because grass-fed beef has been shown to have a lower fat content, combined with the fact these cows are less likely to be exposed to or eating these toxins, makes grass-fed beef a superior choice. If that wasn’t scary enough, conventional cows are often raised in overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions needing to be given antibiotics to stave off the spread of disease. Overuse of antibiotics in our food system has been linked to lowered immunity in humans.

Grass-Fed Beef is Better!

So there you have it, grass-fed beef is better for your fertility health than your average grain-fed supermarket beef. Not only does the nutritional profile make grass-fed more popular, but so does the ethical implications.

A decade ago, there were only 50 grass-fed-cattle farms today there are thousands in the U.S. This shows that the demand has greatly increased and for good reason! This makes it easier to purchase grass-fed beef. You can now find grass-fed beef at most supermarkets and farmers markets. Better yet, check with your local cattle ranch to see if they sell grass-fed beef.

Dalene’s Grass-Fed Beef Steak Fajita Recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 lb. grass-fed beef skirt steak
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 large sweet bell peppers, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons coconut oil
5 tablespoons chili powder
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp coriander powder
1/4 cup salsa
1/4 tsp drizzled honey or agave syrup (optional)
2 cloves of fresh garlic, crushed
1/4 cup water
sea salt & fresh ground black pepper to taste
8 lime wedges
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for topping)
1 cup shredded raw organic sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
2 avocados, thinly sliced (optional)
8-10 small whole grain flour tortillas or corn tortillas

Directions:

1. Prep all ingredients. Measure out all spices and put in a bowl. Clean and thinly slice onion and peppers (be sure ribs, stem and seeds are removed). Set aside.

2. In a large cast-iron wok or stir-fry pan add in 1 Tbsp. of coconut oil with burner on medium heat. Once ready, add in sliced onion, peppers and crushed garlic. Stir fry, stirring occasionally, until onions become slightly opaque.

3. While the onion and pepper mixture is sautéing… either grill or pan sear steak first. This means you will need to put a tablespoon of coconut oil in a cast iron pan at medium heat or get your grill ready at medium heat. Salt and pepper skirt steak, both sides. Sear or grill for 3 minutes on each side. Be sure not to burn it! Once done, set aside and tent with foil.

4. Add in all spices with the 1/4 cup water and salsa. Mix well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for a couple minutes. During this time, thinly slice skirt steak. Warm tortillas in tortilla warmer or wrapped in a damp (not wet) cloth on a cookie sheet in the oven.

5. Add the steak into the onion, pepper and spice mixture. Drizzle with a little honey. Mix all ingredients together. Salt and pepper a little.

6. Serve in warm tortillas with lime wedges, topped with cheese (optional), avocado slices and fresh cilantro.

Yum, yum, yum!

References

  • Daley, C. A., Abbott, A., Doyle, P. S., Nader, G. A., & Larson, S. (2010). A review of fatty acid profiles and antioxidant content in grass-fed and grain-fed beef. Nutrition Journal, 9(1). doi:10.1186/1475-2891-9-10. Retrieved from: https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1475-2891-9-10
  • Aubrey, A. (2010, April 08). The Truth About Grass-Fed Beef. Retrieved from: http://www.npr.org/2010/04/08/125722082/the-truth-about-grass-fed-beef

« Previous Post
Is Exercise Good Or Bad For Fertility?
Next Post »
Success Story: Katharina's Empowering Journey

About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

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

May 17

Open
Can added sugars in our diets affect hormonal health and fertility? Here are the details and the effects sugary foods can have on hormonal and reproductive health... 
​
​What's your biggest hurdle when it comes to sugar?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 12

Open
Diana’s story is one of true heartbreak after years of struggle, but with a glorious golden light at the end of the tunnel. Here is her truly inspiring fertility journey…
​
​​​​​
​**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

May 6

Open
Q: I am on birth control, can I start supporting my hormonal health with herbs and supplements or do I need to be off of birth control to start?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 4

Open
Have you been waiting to begin making healthy lifestyle changes to support your fertility health? Do you feel overwhelmed about where to begin?
​
​What has been holding you back?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 2

Open
Girls, we all have one. Here are some ways to encourage health and balance, naturally...
​
​For the full guide, click the link in our Bio.
​

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 27

Open
Jennifer experienced multiple miscarriages before finding our website. She became inspired by our success stories and was determined to become one too! Read more about her journey... 
​
​
​​​​**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

Apr 25

Open
Q: When should someone consider having testing done?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 21

Open
To make an impact on your health, you will need to first learn the actions and steps to take... then you will need to be consistent with those actions. It is the consistency that brings you the results. You are going to be human and not be perfect 100% of the time. Just accept that and get back to it. Consistency, day in and out, is more important than being perfect. You can't be 100% perfect for long, but you can be consistent every day.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 19

Open
If you’ve undergone many consecutive fertility treatments without a successful pregnancy, it could be time for a break. Taking a break gives your body a chance to cleanse, reset and recover. Relief from the side effects and stress could be exactly what you need for a fresh start for your fertility journey.

Use the time to work on yourself- mind and body. A break might even give you the opportunity to find a new sense of peace or a new version of your fertility program.
​
Learn more about natural therapies you can use to help your body reset after medical fertility treatments...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 13

Open
After 6 unsuccessful IUIs and one IVF of the same result, Angela takes a break and discovers the Natural Fertility Company. Using our resources to help her implement some changes, she has a much different result on her next IVF at 43. Click through the slides to read her story...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 11

Open
Q: My partner smokes, will this affect his fertility?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 6

Open
I have KMF imprinted on many of my personal belongings as a constant reminder to Keep Moving Forward. This started to be my mantra about 20 years ago when I was in a tough patch and knew the only way was through, and step by step. Keep moving forward. What is the next step, shuffle or even pause that may need to happen? Whatever it is, move towards it, into it, and forward.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 4

Open
With so many chemicals and outside factors contributing to estrogen dominance in the body, it is good to help support hormonal balance and one way to do that is through foods.
​
​Here are some tips, including foods that help to promote the body's natural ability to get rid of excess estrogens. ..
​
​Are you getting any of these foods in your weekly diet?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 1

Open
Trish conceives her second child with natural therapies at 37. Swipe through to read 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

Mar 30

Open
Q: I have heavy periods, should I be concerned about using tampons?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
I knew what my life's calling was at a very young age. At around 16, I had a dream where a dreadlocked rasta man came to me (Burning Spears to be exact) and in that dream was told that I was to be a healer. It was the type of dream that was more real than reality. The next day I woke up feeling different than I had ever felt before. Later on that day, we had new neighbors move into the house above us and a woman came and introduced herself. When I opened the door, she said her name and told me she was opening up a school of healing and that I was to be one of her students. It was one of the most intense series of events in my life. I went on to go to her school and my path started with an amazing community and so much support. What are one of the most life changing experiences you have had? I would love to hear...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Stress can be one of the primary factors behind infertility. Believe it or not, our bodies are equipped to prevent conception from occurring during times of extreme stress. The presence of adrenaline, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which also causes infertility to occur.
​
​Swipe left for ways to reduce the effect of stress on your fertility...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
At 39, Milissa focuses on natural ways to prevent another miscarriage & goes on to conceive. Swipe through the slides to read more about her journey... 
​
​
​**​​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

Mar 17

Open
​We come into contact with xenohormones on a daily basis. Once you know where and what they are, you can avoid them or not use products that contain them. There has been extensive research on the connection between xenohormones and hormone disruption, which leads us to fertility issues and imbalances. Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...
​
​If you would like support in getting started with your Ditch and Switch, download my free guide on how to get started. The link is in our Bio.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 14

Open
You are strong enough. Life can get hard sometimes, but we are stronger through it all. You can figure this out. You know your body. Trust yourself. You are worthy of health, you are worthy of motherhood. You are worthy of having your own opinion. Listen to your gut. You've got this.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us