6 FOODS TO EAT IF YOU'RE TRYING TO GET PREGNANT EAT RIGHT
By Gillian Mckeith
2 BROCCOLI Green vegetables are high in magnesium which is vital for female hormone balance.
3 FISH Oily fish is high in omega 3 fats that are needed for hormonal balance and for the development of the brain of the foetus.
4 LENTILS Packed with folic acid. All women hoping to get pregnant are advised to take a folic acid supplement as it reduces the risk of birth defects in the baby. Lentils and other beans and pulses are a great natural source.
5 BROWN RICE A great source of fibre and B vitamins needed for hormonal production. Fibre strips old hormones and waste products from the system. Without this removal, old hormones re-circulate and create imbalances.
6 SUPPLEMENT WITH THE HERB AGNUS CASTUS Lack of nutrients can be a major reason why women fail to get pregnant. The Australian Bush remedy She Oak found in health food stores can help with fertility. Give it a try.
If you have been on antibiotics, drinking lots of alcohol or eating sugary food, your gut needs help. Probiotics improve digestion and immune function. Go for probiotics in capsules or powders from health food stores, not sugarfilled yogurt drinks.
WHAT'S IN SEASON?
RASPBERRIES are nearly over this year but don't miss out as they're a good source of antioxidants, including ellagic acid, which have powerful anti-cancer properties. They also contain quercetin which is an antihistamine and salicylic acid which eases aches.
Dr Gillian McKeith's Ultimate Health Plan, (Michael Joseph, £14.99). Visit Gillian's website at drgillianmckeith.com
Dr Gillian McKeith's Shopping Guide will be published by Michael Joseph on September 7 at £6.99
