Author: Jacky Dixon

Caffeine when pregnant - should I limit caffeine if I am planning to conceive, or am pregnant ?

This question is one of the most frequently asked of my fertility clients, and for an addicted coffee drinker it may seem inconceivable that you should limit coffee consumption. So, is caffeine when pregnant and preconception really that harmful? Often due to morning sickness and aversion to tastes and smells heightened in pregnancy, you may be put off at least in the first trimester. There are many conflicting arguments for and against at least reducing caffeine in pregnancy. Research has not come up with a definitive answer, but does point towards the risk factors. I’m suggesting that you should consider giving it up in the preconception period in preparation for pregnancy. Recent research from the U.S shows that 51% of people are slow metabolizers of caffeine, which means it takes a long time to clear from the body, and if you think of all the extra circulating hormones in pregnancy it would logically take a lot longer.
29 February, 2016 /
We all know that folic acid is important for pregnancy, but did you know there are different forms of folic acid and that the form you choose can affect your fertility? The majority of women know that folic acid (B9), is essential for the normal development of a baby in utero. It is particularly important in the first trimester when the nervous system is developing, as it reduces the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. But more recent research has uncovered a genetic defect that makes it extremely difficult for up to 1in 4 people to effectively absorb folic acid, which is the synthetic form contained in most supplements.
08 January, 2016 /

What are the implications of BPA and pregnancy?

Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA, is a chemical used to make hard plastic containers and the lining of metal food and beverage cans. According to the “Center for Disease Control and Prevention” - more than 90% of Americans have traces of it in their urine. We have all seen plastic containers with those bright stickers claiming “BPA FREE” so what does this mean? Most people are aware that the plastics containing BPA (Bisphenol A) are detrimental to health, but how do they affect us particularly in pregnancy?
25 November, 2015 /

Did you know that Thyroids play an important part in conceiving?

  If you have been trying to conceive for 6 months or longer it is well worth getting your thyroid health checked. For such a small gland situated at the front of the throat the thyroid has a big job to perform. It is essential for regulating metabolism, blood calcium levels, energy production, fat metabolism, oxygen utilization, balance of other hormones and weight maintenance. I find that with my clients sub optimal thyroid health is often overlooked by your G.P and thyroid blood tests are not preformed as part of a standard pre conception blood panel.
05 August, 2015 /

Winter Blues

I grew up in the northern hemisphere and can remember craving sunlight when it appeared! I was always much happier on a sunny day.
29 May, 2015 /

Toxic Homes

Are you overwhelmed by the amount of information available on “toxins”? Being a naturopath, I may be aware of more environmental pollutants we are exposed to, but it can become overwhelming, and often it becomes confusing.
22 March, 2015 /

World Sleep Day: 13/03/2015

    How much sleep do we need? Too little sleep over several nights leaves you tired, unable to concentrate, depressed and anxious. Long term affects increase your risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity, these are the same risk factors for too much sleep.
13 March, 2015 /

The Effects of Stress on Fertility

Adrenal health is one of the most talked-about topics in health today, and for good reason. We lead hectic lifestyles, are constantly on the go and stimulated by wireless technology, rarely getting deep restorative rest. Our life style is so much faster than twenty years ago, we are all trying to adapt—often at great expense to our health.
19 December, 2014 /

Go crazy for nuts!

Activated Nuts Nuts are a fantastic addition to meals or as a snack between meals. The benefits of eating a handful of nuts every day (without the salt, honey, or roasting – sorry!) have been proven. Nutrient-dense, they are rich in protein (ten to 25 per cent) and up to 80 per cent of the fat they contain is unsaturated. They are also a significant source of fibre and minerals. Unfortunately, many people have digestive issues with nuts, They have quite a few enzyme inhibitors and a little phytic acid, so they can bother your digestion and cause bloating, gas, heart burn, and stomach ulcers over the long term. Phytic acid is the storage form of phosphorus found in many plants, especially in the bran or hull of grains and in nuts and seeds. Although herbivores like cows and sheep can digest phytic acid, humans can’t. So for some nut consumers – such as vegetarians who rely on them as a key source of protein and vitamins – activating nuts makes the most of the nutrients.
06 August, 2014 /