The Six Recommended Fertility Supplements (Prenatals) When TTC
Nutrition plays a vital role when you’re TTC (trying to conceive), from pre-conception to pregnancy, and even afterwards. In addition to becoming more mindful about your diet and lifestyle, your fertility specialist or nutritionist will most likely recommend introducing fertility supplements to your regime. However, when you begin strolling the shopping aisle (lined with supplements), you’ll realise the choice is overwhelming and it’s hard to know what you really need and which brand to turn to.
Each body and each TTC journey is different; a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition and fertility supplements doesn’t work. Whether you’re having (in)fertility treatment, trying to conceive naturally or pregnant, your nutritional needs will be unique. Binto, a fertility supplement specialist, beloved by women all across the USA and Canada, along with The Ribbon Box’s readers, understands the need to tailor fertility supplements.
Read on to find out why we’re big fans of Binto’s fertility supplements and unique approach, why you should consider subscribing to personalised fertility supplements and to receive Binto’s generous 20% discount exclusive to The Ribbon Box’s readers.
Words by Beth Tupper
So what are Binto Fertility Supplements?
Suzie Devine, Founder of Binto, used to be a fertility nurse. She often found that her IVF patients felt flustered by the overwhelming choice of fertility supplements, and the short appointment times led to her patients leaving with unanswered questions. Now, Suzie is helping women of all ages treat their symptoms and helping those who are TTC or pregnant, to remain in optimal nutritional health, through her tailored fertility supplements at Binto.
Many standard supplements focus on supplying a high dose of iron and calcium, which whilst important, neglect the other vital vitamins needed for a healthy conception. Binto provides tailored support for every need: gut health, immune system health, challenging period symptoms, (in)fertility and fertility conditions such as PCOS and Endometriosis, prenatal pregnancy programs, postpartum care and menopausal symptoms.
Once Binto understands your nutritional needs, their team of women’s health experts will tailor your fertility supplement plan and you’ll receive a quaint package to your door every month. To-do list: fertility supplements – tick.
Related Article – Nurturing Yourself for Fertility and Beyond
The Six Recommended Fertility Supplements (Prenatals)
Folate
Otherwise known as Folic Acid, folate helps to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida, miscarriage and other birth defects. According to Binto, over 50% of women don’t reach the recommended daily amount, which is why Binto use methylated folate, the most active form.
Vitamin D
Aside from being a wonder-vitamin for supporting cardiovascular, and bone health and for preventing cancer, Vitamin D plays a key supportive role for cells when TTC. Vitamin D aids estrogen production which contributes to successful embryo implantation in the uterus.
DHA
Many will know Docosahexaenoic Acid as Omega-3 fatty acids, often found naturally in foods such as fish, nuts and seeds. These acids are important for supporting both mum’s brain function and baby’s brain development.
NAC
N-Acetyl-Cysteine is particularly important for those trying to conceive naturally or through IUI; it helps to lower insulin levels in the body and thins cervical mucus, making an easier path for sperm to reach the egg. For ladies suffering with PCOS, NAC can help to decrease male hormones and support healthy ovulation. Plus, this little gem has the added bonus of helping antioxidant production in the body too – win, win.
CoQ10
Your cells will thank you for increasing the CoQ10 in your body; it supports reproductive function by increasing the energy levels naturally found in our cells, including egg cells. As we age, the CoQ10 level in our cells decreases and so, by giving it a boost, you will be supporting your egg growth.
Probiotics
The benefits of taking probiotics go beyond conception: they restore gut bacteria, keep you regular and improve emotional wellbeing. Binto recommend taking probiotics before, during and after pregnancy to support mum and baby at each stage of the TTC journey.
Related Article – Folate vs. Folic Acid When Trying to Conceive
Binto’s Advice for IVF Success
According to Binto Fertility Supplement’s Founder, Suzie Devine, evidence shows the direct impact diet and lifestyle can have on fertility health. Whilst Suzie doesn’t advise switching to a drastic or restrictive regime (phew!), she does understand that many of those trying to conceive through IVF have swapped the medically recommended healthy lifestyle for more Covid comforts over the last year. Suzie advises that whilst waiting for IVF treatments, there are a few lifestyle tweaks you can begin to do now to optimise your chance of IVF success:
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Begin a supplement regime at least six weeks prior to starting your round of IVF. This will give the supplements time to take effect; they will support your egg quality, hormones and the health of your uterus.
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Become aware of the household and beauty products you’re using and swap any adverse or potentially harmful products for chemical-free alternatives. Chemicals, like parabens, BPA and phthalates, can affect fertility so, if you can introduce an alternative, do so; if you can’t, wear a pair of rubber gloves when using the products.
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Get outside, breath the fresh air and move your body. When you start your stimulation phase of your IVF cycle, you will need to be careful of doing rigorous exercise. Though, a few gentle cardio sessions a week can help to improve men’s sperm quality and women’s hormonal balance.
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Invest in self-care and aim to decrease your anxiety; evidence shows that stress does not have a known correlation to baby loss but the increased levels of cortisol – our stress hormone – can negatively impact fertility, including egg quality. Some complementary therapies to try while TTC include: talk therapy (everyone can benefit from this), acupuncture, massage, reiki, journaling, meditation and yoga.
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Try to eat a balanced diet and nourish your body with colourful, nutrient-rich foods. Introduce more foods high in Omega-3 such as fish, nuts and seeds, and consider swapping to organic foods and grass-fed meats. The process of IVF treatment can be restrictive, so allow yourself to enjoy some comforts but be mindful and limit inflammatory foods. Try to reduce your intake of refined sugars, alcohol and caffeine, and, introduce substitutes such as antioxidant-rich berries, dark chocolate, decaffeinated drinks, nut-based dairy alternatives, and goat’s cheese instead of cow’s milk-based cheeses.
Related Article – Fertility Specialists – Why Vitamin D is Vital for Immunity and Fertility
Subscribe to Binto
Binto begins by getting to know you, your TTC journey and your supplement needs through their quick questionnaire. Once you’ve answered their questions, their team of licensed women’s health experts will tailor your personalised daily supplement plan for you.
Binto veto the one-size-fits-all approach often seen with commercial supplements and over-the-counter vitamins. You will receive a sweet little packet of supplements to your door each month; based on your fertility plan, diagnosis, overall health and personal requirements – it’s a delivery tailored for you. Their packaging is compostable or you can send back to Binto to properly recycle.
Consult your Fertility Specialist
It is possible to have too much of a good thing and taking too much of any vitamin or mineral can be bad for you and you should always consult your health provider (or fertility specialist) and read the label before taking supplements. If you experience any unusual symptoms when taking supplements, stop taking them and consult your pharmacist.
