You may have heard of the gut-brain-axis but have you heard about the link between the gut and fertility? Grace Carey-Caton, Nutritionist, Hormone & Gut Health Specialist and Parla Expert discuss how the gut & the reproductive system work together and some simple steps you can take to support your gut now!
Gut Health & Fertility
Our knowledge of the gut is constantly evolving, and it is now clear that our digestive health has an influence on the health of every system in the body. It supports the function of our immune systems, our minds and how we regulate our hormones, so it has a key role in fertility too. If you are looking to conceive, supporting your gut to achieve a balanced and nourished state is essential.
What Do Studies Show About the Gut-Fertility Link?
It may not be obviously clear just how the gut and the reproductive system link and impact fertility as there is a number of behind-the-scenes mechanisms going on, in which these two systems are working together. Here is what some studies have shown about the link between the two:
Oestrogen Metabolism
A key regulator for the hormone oestrogen is the gut microbiome. The gut regulates these oestrogens through secretion of an enzyme called B-glucuronidase which breaks the oestrogen down into the active forms. If this process is impaired by imbalances such as dysbiosis in the gut, this can also imbalance the circulating oestrogens which may lead to various reproductive conditions and fertility issues.
Gut Permeability
Abnormal gut permeability, also know as leaky gut, is when the barrier in the gut is compromised and toxic substances and poorly digested foods can enter GIT and accumulate. This can lead to a toxic build up, reduced detoxification and imbalanced hormones. Studies have shown a potential link between recurrent pregnancy loss and abnormal intestinal permeability. Higher prevalence was seen in the women with recurrent loss of pregnancy compared to the control group.
The Vaginal Microbiome
The gut microbiome can also influence the diversity of the vaginal microbiome which has an effect on the reproductive system and fertility. Many of the strains of bacteria are found in both the gut and the vagina to promote a healthy environment and to lower the pH to stop harmful pathogens from thriving.
Signs/Symptoms of Gut Imbalances
- Bloating & or Gas
- Frequent Diarrhoea/Constipation/Both
- Nausea
- Heartburn or Acid Reflux
- Frequent Thrush or Urinary Tract Infections
- Unknown Food Sensitivities
While these symptoms may indicate the gut is imbalanced, complete absence of symptoms does not mean that the digestive system is functioning optimally and so some further TLC may still be needed in order to further support your fertility goals.
Simple Steps to Support Your Gut to Support Fertility
Here’s a few small steps you can take to offer some support:
- Fermented Foods: Add fermented foods into your diet to help replenish the gut flora and promote rebalance of microbes. Try sauerkraut, live yoghurt, kimchi, kefir or kombucha.
- Fibre Rich Foods: Fibre supports the gut by feeding friendly bacteria and helping to keep the bowel movements regular. This in turn promotes detoxification of hormones. Have a wide range of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains to optimise your fibre intake.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Have an abundance of colours in the diet such as bright coloured fruits and vegetables, herbs and spices such a turmeric and ginger. Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel can also help keep inflammation at bay.
It is clear that there is a connection between gut health and fertility. The health of our gut plays an essential role in the many layers of supporting conception and should be a key area to explore in your fertility journey.
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Are you interested in finding out more about optimising your gut health for fertility? Join Parla expert Nutritionist Grace Carey-Caton for her Fertility and Gut Health Webinar on Tuesday 20th July.
