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Fertility Nutrition Men's Fertility Pregnancy

Why Nuts & Seeds Are So Important For Fertility Nutrition

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
August 23, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Nuts and seeds are some of the most nutrient dense and delicious foods on earth. They are an important part of fertility nutrition, pregnancy nutrition, and beyond, because they supply the body with ample fiber, protein, minerals and essential fatty acids.

What you may not know about nuts and seeds, is that they should be consumed and stored in a certain way to protect their nutritional content and your health. All nuts and seeds should be consumed in their raw form, or as close to raw as possible, to ensure all nutrients stay intact. Essential fatty acids and zinc are especially sensitive to heat and can be destroyed when heated. Before I get to that though, let’s learn about important key players in their nutritional profile. These are nutrients that impact fertility health.

Nuts and Seeds are a Fertility Nutrition Powerhouse!

Seeds and nuts are packed with very important nutrients for fertility. They are literally the seed of life for a new plant, so they are packed with key ingredients to generate life. Four of the most important are proteins, omega- 3 essential fatty acids, zinc and vitamin E.

Protein
Proteins are required for building and repair of the body’s tissues. This includes a growing baby in its mother’s womb. The amino acids that make up protein are the building blocks of the body’s cells, including those of your baby. Protein is also an excellent source of energy.

Nuts and seeds with the highest content of protein:

  • Peanuts (1 oz.) 6.7 g
  • Sunflower seeds (1 oz.) 6 g
  • Flax Seeds (1 oz.) 6 g
  • Almonds (1/4 cup) 6 g
  • Sesame seeds (1 oz.) 5 g
  • Walnuts (1 oz.) 4 g

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids
The most popular EFA, omega-3 supports healthy fertility by helping to regulate hormones, increase cervical mucous production, promote ovulation and improve the quality of the uterus by increasing the blood flow to the reproductive organs.

In the case of seeds, β€œThe seed hulls contain lignans, which are chemicals that help bind up excess hormones, while the seed oils contain essential fatty acids that provide the building blocks for making hormones,” shares Nicole Jardim, renowned Women’s Health & Functional Nutrition Coach.

Omega-3s also helps to regulate inflammatory response, thereby aiding fertility issues such as endometriosis, PCOS, and uterine fibroids. Omega-3 is also important for proper sperm production. In pregnancy, omega-3 EFA can help support proper nervous system and brain development.

The best nuts and seeds for omega 3 are:

  • Walnuts – 1/4 cup = 2,270mg
  • Flax seeds – 2 Tbs = 3,510mg
  • Hemp seeds – 3 Tbs = 3,000mg
  • Chia seeds – 1Tbs = 2,300mg

Zinc
Zinc works with more than 300 different enzymes in the body to keep it running smoothly. It is important for fertility because it plays an important role in proper development of ova and sperm, hormonal balance, prevention of chromosomal defects, and prevention of recurrent miscarriage.

The best nuts and seeds for zinc are:

  • Pumpkin – 1/4 cup = 2.7mg
  • Sesame – 1/4 cup =2.8mg

Vitamin E
This vitamin is essential to fertility. In fact, the chemical name for the most active form of vitamin alpha-tocopherol comes from the work tokos which means β€œoffspring,” and phero, which means β€œto bear”. So in order to bear children, you must have adequate levels of vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant which has been shown to be supportive of nerve cells, red blood cells, the liver and the immune system.

The best nuts and seeds for vitamin E are:

  • Sunflower Seeds – 1/4 cup = 18.10mg
  • Almonds – 1/4 cup = 8.97mg

Important Note About Peanut Allergy & Pregnancy
Allergies to peanuts are serious. It was once suggested that when a pregnant woman consumes peanut products, the fetus may be exposed to peanut allergens. This was thought to mean that a developing baby may be at higher risk for developing a peanut allergy later in life. Many now argue that the research does not prove a mother’s consumption of peanuts influences whether her child will develop an allergy or not, according to Adam Fox paediatric allergist for Baby Centre UK. The concern is for parents with peanut allergy. It is suggested that pregnant mothers with a family history of peanut allergy on either side of the baby’s family, should avoid eating peanut products during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Be sure to discuss peanut consumption in pregnancy with your healthcare provider if you are concerned.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Nuts and Seeds

  • Eat nuts and seeds that are organic and raw (see more below if you are sensitive to raw nuts)
  • Purchase nuts still in their shell
  • Choose raw nut and seed butters or make your own
  • Grind small fresh seeds like flax, chia, sesame to get the full benefits. Seeds are so small the body doesn’t digest them, they usually pass through the digestive tract.
  • Sprout raw nuts, this will help your body to digest them
  • Make your own nut and seed milk
  • Purchase nuts & seeds that have been stored in the refrigerated section of the store, this is a common practice in many health foods stores
  • Store in an airtight glass container in the fridge or freezer (long-term)

What to Avoid

  • Avoid roasted nuts and seeds, especially those roasted in oil. Nuts roasted in oil may be high in free radicals, which damages cellular health. Dry roasted is better, but raw or sprouted is best.
  • Avoid salted nuts and seeds, unless you lightly salt them right before eating. The salt for soaking in brine water is fine.
  • Try to avoid purchasing nuts and seeds that have been stored on the shelf. The oils go rancid quite quickly.
  • Avoid roasted nut and seed and butters made from them
  • Non-organic nuts and seeds

What to do About Digestive Upset Due to Raw Nuts

Some people, including me, are sensitive to raw nuts. They can cause digestive upset in some people because they contain enzyme inhibitors. The digestive system contains digestive enzymes, but these enzyme inhibitors can prevent the body’s digestive enzymes from digesting nuts thoroughly.

“Soaked raw nuts are far more digestible than plain raw nuts. The soaking process eliminates anti-nutrients and improves nutrition while still maintaining rawness” says Health and Nutrition Educator Sarah Pope.

So what can be done? Sprouting or soaking them in salt water for a few hours and then properly drying them in a warm (not hot) oven or food dehydrator destroys the enzyme inhibitors, while unlocking nutrient potential.

Sprouting Nuts & Seeds

Sprouting ensures you are getting the most nutrient dense nuts and seeds. Sprouts are the germinated seed of a plant. Nuts are seeds. Sprouts can be made from any seed of any edible plant. Sprouts are packed with nutrients. Any raw nut or seed, including beans can be sprouted and are extremely delicious.

Learn how to sprout nuts, seeds and beans here…

If you don’t have time to sprout, soak, and dry raw nuts, most health food stores and Nuts.com sell already soaked and dried nuts and nut butters.

Nuts and seeds are so versatile! Ideas for Ways to Eat Them…

  • Sprinkle on top of oatmeal, salads, yogurt
  • Grind in a food processor for a long time to make a nut or seed butter
  • Puree in food processor to make delicious dips and sauces
  • Add nut and seed butters to smoothies
  • Grind dried nuts in food processor to make flour; almond is delicious
  • Make your own nut and seed milks
  • Make your own trail/nut mix

Click here to learn how to make Almond Milk…
Click here to learn how to make Hemp Milk…

References

  • Rodriguez, H., C.H., C.M.T. (n.d.). The Natural Fertility Diet: How to Eat for Optimal Fertility. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/fertility-diet
  • Fallon, Sally. Enig, Mary G., Ph.D. Nourishing Traditions: The CookBook that Challenges Politically Correct Nutrition and the Diet Dictocrats. New Trends Publishing, Inc. 2001
  • Jadim, N. (January 20, 2019). Is Seed Cycling For You? Retrieved from https://nicolejardim.com/seed-cycling/
  • Enzymes. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://www.realmilk.com/health/enzymes/
  • Pope, S. (n.d.). How to Soak the 10 Most Popular Raw Nuts (Recipe plus Video). Retrieved from: https://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/video-raw-nuts-done-right/
  • At What Temperature Are Food Enzymes Destroyed? (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/at-what-temperature-are-food-enzymes-destroyed/
  • Olson, C. (2005) The Vegetarian Mother’s Cookbook, GoCo Publishing.
  • Fox, A. (January 2013). Is it safe to eat peanuts during pregnancy? Retrieved from https://www.babycentre.co.uk/x536445/is-it-safe-to-eat-peanuts-during-pregnancy

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About the Author

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

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It's better to start today rather than wait until tomorrow...

Wondering how to get started? 

You have a couple of options πŸ‘‡πŸ½

➑️ 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. 

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➑️ Book a consultation and have a custom fertility program created for you.

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The Drop Cycle Methodβ„’ Program includes:

➑️ Drop Cycle Methodβ„’ Workshop: Led by Hethir Rodriguez, this in-depth, step-by-step workshop teaches you the fundamentals of self-acupressure and aromatherapy for fertility.

➑️ Fertilica Acu-Penβ„’: Effortlessly perform self-acupressure with this innovative tool, featuring two interchangeable heads for precision and comfort.

➑️ Radiant Wombβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Specially designed for the follicular phase (the first two weeks of your cycle), this therapeutic blend encourages a calming mood, promotes relaxation, supports estrogen balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries, nurturing a healthy uterine lining.

➑️ Calm Wombβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Ideal for the luteal phase (generally the last two weeks of the cycle), this comforting and supportive blend helps to bring a sense of tranquility and well-being during this important phase of your cycle.

➑️ FertiliClearβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Formulated to support cleansing and detoxification while reducing inflammation within the reproductive system, this blend stimulates liver function, promotes detoxification, encourages the reduction of inflammation, and supports hormone health and balance. Use daily, all month long. If you are actively TTC, discontinue use after ovulation.

➑️ Instruction Cards for the Drop Cycle Method Routine: Easily locate and stimulate the correct acupressure points with these informative cards, featuring detailed instructions for each of the four Drop Cycle Method routines: Follicular Phase, Luteal Phase, Menstrual Phase, and Cleansing Phase.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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Womb Care Therapeutic Castor oil kit is a powerful tool that includes a special blend of organic castor oil and organic therapeutic essential oils designed to enhance circulation, promote detoxification and support healing wherever it is applied.

The Womb Care Castor oil Kit is a natural and effective solution for promoting reproductive health and easing pelvic discomfort in women. 

Womb Care Castor Oil Packs are a simple, yet powerful, natural therapy that involves applying essential oil infused castor oil to a cotton flannel and placing it on the skin. The pack is then covered with our wrap. While wearing the wrap, the properties in the castor oil are absorbed and used by the body to increase circulation and promote detoxification, while nourishing the skin and underlying tissues.

If you're looking for a natural way to enhance circulation, promote detoxification, and support reproductive health, Womb Careβ„’ Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs help to cleanse the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about Womb Care Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs for fertility type PACK in the comments below and I will send you a link to my workshop.

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May 29

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Here is how to prepare you Womb Care Castor Oil Pack for the first time. 

Womb Care Wraps make regular castor oil packs soooo easy. 

πŸ‘‰ If you’d like to learn more about Womb Care Castor Oil Packs and how to use them for supporting reproductive health type β€œPACK” in the comments and I’ll send you a link to my Castor Oil Packs Introduction.

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May 28

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Designed to help you experience:

Regular cycles and overcome:
➑️ Lack of ovulation
➑️ Short/Long luteal or follicular phase
➑️ Cycles longer than 35 days

Healthy menstrual cycles and overcome:
➑️ PMS, cramps, mood swings
➑️ Heavy, light, or missing periods
➑️ Spotting

Healthy circulation to reproductive organs and:
➑️ Improve uterine lining and support implantation
➑️ Improve cervical mucus
➑️ Support cleansing and detoxification
➑️ Stress support

For anyone seeking to support general reproductive health as well. πŸŒΏπŸ’•

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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May 27

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Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture. 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body's energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Self-Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle. 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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May 26

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Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems.

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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May 25

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By nourishing our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can create a fertile ground for our fertility to thrive, and a life that is rich with meaning, purpose, and joy.

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May 25

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Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems. 

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

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May 25

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Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture.Β 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body’s energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle.Β 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts.Β 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you’d like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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May 24

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To best support your fertility, having a clear understanding of the monthly fertility cycles can make a big difference. 

Swipe through to learn about the different cycles and which fertility products and therapies are best to use for each cycle. 

Save or share if you found this guide helpful.

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May 23

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My newest Fertility Therapy for fertility support!

Drop Cycle Method is and all-in-one solution combines the ancient wisdom of self-acupressure with the natural healing properties of essential oils to support each stage of your fertility cycle. 

Experience a natural, holistic approach to enhancing your chances of conception and overall well-being.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

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May 23

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Introducing my carefully crafted blends designed to support you throughout your fertility journey. Discover the transformative benefits of each blend and find harmony within your cycle.

1️⃣ Radiant Wombβ„’: Embrace the first two weeks of your cycle with this specially formulated blend. Crafted using 100% organic essential oils, it encourages a calming mood, supports hormone balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries. Nurture a healthy uterine lining and radiate fertility from within.

2️⃣ Calm Wombβ„’: Step into the luteal phase with tranquility and well-being. This 100% organic comforting blend provides a sense of calm and support during this crucial implantation phase. Embrace the journey with a peaceful heart and invite harmony into your womb.

3️⃣ FertiliClearβ„’: Give your reproductive system the cleanse support and detoxification it deserves. With this 100% organic blend, experience the power of stimulating healthy liver function, promoting detoxification, and reducing inflammation. Create a fertile environment by embracing the body's natural ability to heal and rejuvenate.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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May 22

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A healthy lifestyle is not just a path to a better body, but a path to a better life, where we can manifest our deepest desires and wildest dreams.

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May 22

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Here are my favorite 7 essential oils for hormone balance and how to safely use them. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

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May 21

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πŸ₯š In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🀯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➑️ Proper circulation
➑️ A healthy fertility cycle
➑️ Balanced hormones
➑️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

πŸ™‚ The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡

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May 20

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Did you know that you can use therapeutic essential oils to help support hormonal health?

Yes you can, but keep a few things in mind...

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Quality of the essential oils
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper use and timing (there are certain essential oils to avoid after ovulation)
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper dilution

πŸ™ŒπŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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May 20

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πŸ‘‹πŸ½ Unlocking the Power of Reflexology for the Endocrine System 🌟

Step into the world of healing self-care as we dive deep into reflexology and its incredible impact on the endocrine system! πŸ‘‹πŸ½βœ¨

1️⃣ Balance: Discover the key reflex points on your hands that correspond to the thyroid, pituitary, and liver. By stimulating these points through reflexology, we can support these vital systems for optimal hormonal health.

2️⃣ Thyroid Harmony: By focusing on the thyroid reflexes, we aim to regulate the thyroid gland's function. Balancing thyroid activity can enhance hormone production and improve overall fertility health.

3️⃣ Pituitary Vitality: The pituitary gland, known as the master gland, plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive hormones. Reflexology can help stimulate the pituitary reflexes, promoting hormonal balance and supporting fertility.

4️⃣ Liver Rejuvenation: The liver is responsible for detoxification and hormone metabolism. Through reflexology, we can enhance liver function, aiding in the removal of toxins and promoting hormonal balance for improved fertility.

5️⃣ Holistic Fertility Support: By supporting the thyroid, pituitary, and liver through reflexology, we create an optimal environment for fertility. Balanced hormone levels, improved detoxification, and enhanced hormonal regulation contribute to overall reproductive well-being.

🌟 Embrace the transformative power of reflexology and unlock the secrets to supporting your endocrine health for improved fertility.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

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May 19

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There are so many great ways to use essential oils to help support fertility and reproductive health. The main uses I focus on are:

🌼 Hormone health
🌼 Period health
🌼 Regulate a cycle
🌼 Reduce stress
🌼 Detoxification and regular cleansing

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

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May 19

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Harness the power of aromatherapy for fertility!

Swipe to learn more about how to safely use essential oils to help support:
🌼 Hormonal health 
🌸 Regular cycles 
🌺 Peaceful periods 
🌿 and so much more... 

πŸ’§ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility and the Drop Cycle Method type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my introduction video.
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