Here are the first five ways...

1. Try Yoga

Stress has been shown to alter reproductive hormone levels. In yoga, the focus in on slow, deep breathing while bringing your awareness to postures that release tension and increase blood circulation. Fertility yoga techniques are a great way to relieve stress while increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs. 

2. Eliminate Phthalates from your beauty products & plastics

Butyle benzyle phthalates are found in many nail polishes, lipsticks, and perfumes. These compounds mimic estrogens which can interfere with reproductive hormones. To find fertility-friendly alternatives go to cosmeticsdatabase.com. Phthalates are organic chemicals produced from oil and are the most commonly used substances added to make plastics or other materials more pliable.

3. Choose Organic Fruits & Vegetables

Synthetic chemical pesticides and fertilizers are routinely sprayed on many crops. These chemicals can bio-accumulate in the body and lead to toxicity as well as disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones. Eating organic fruits and vegetables is a great way to reduce your exposure to as much of these chemicals as possible. 

4. Make Sure Your Carbs are Fertility Friendly

Bad carbs such as white flour, sugar, white rice and white potatoes are primarily sugar and absorbed into the bloodstream very quickly, causing insulin to rise to move sugar from the blood into the cells to be used. When the body is exposed to constant high blood-sugar levels, it can have negative effects such as weight gain, elevated cholesterol, and disruption of reproductive hormone levels. To optimize fertility and stabilize blood sugar it is best to eat "good carbs" such as vegetables, whole grain breads and pastas, and beans. As a general rule "good carbs" have high fiber, low glycemic index, and high nutrients. 

5. Make your cleaning products "green"

Common household cleaners often contain chemicals that can impair your fertility and increase the risk of miscarriage. Changing from ordinary household cleaners to "green" cleaners can significantly reduce this risk. It is best to look for cleaning products without added fragrance, or that contain natural fragrances. Many cleaners may contain phthalates which can alter the delicate balance of reproductive hormones. We often use products from seventh generation and simple green. Other websites such as planet green can provide great information on green cleaning tips.

Stay tuned for next 5 tips to optimize fertility coming later this month...