Doctors have long known that a whole food ketogenic diet – one very low in carbohydrates and moderate in proteins and healthy natural fats – can help fight chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure not to mention help to maintain a healthy weight. New evidence supports that this type of diet and maintaining a healthy weight can be helpful for conception as well.
Insulin resistance and associated high insulin levels are among the major factors for infertility. Production of insulin, the hormone produced by the pancreas to help absorb carbohydrates and store fat, can surge in your body when you have an unbalanced, high-in-carbohydrate diet. This excess of insulin can inhibit ovulation and in many cases is associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a major cause of infertility.
Consider this major change in thinking: common advice in years past was to have a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and a bowl of granola for breakfast. Now we are seeing that this type of diet – high in sugars and other carbohydrates – can be counterproductive. Switching to a low carb breakfast consisting of two eggs with 1 slice bacon and 1/2 cup of berries for example, keeps your insulin production low and could aid in your fertility.
More examples of keto-friendly low carb foods:
- Meat (grass fed is ideal)
- Fish (like salmon)
- Eggs (with yolk is fine)
- Natural fats (olive oil, coconut oil, avocados)
- Vegetables (lettuces, dark leafy greens, non-starchy)
- Nuts (handful a day)
- Berries (blackberries, raspberries)
Foods to avoid:
- Sugars
- Starchy foods (potatoes, bread, and pasta)
- Starchy fruits and veggies (bananas, potatoes, yams)
- Beer and alcohol
For more information on how to achieve a healthy weight and metabolic balance, visit www.jumpstartmd.com today. Mention you are a patient at Golden Gate OBGYN or were referred by your doctor and receive 30% off your new member visit. Call today to learn more.
In health,
Mima Geere, MD, MS, Associate Medical Director
JumpstartMD, the weight loss and wellness practice most recommended by Bay Area doctors.
