Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
Folic Acid for Fertility - Does It Help?
Proper nutrition is key to a healthy pregnancy. Hence, if you are looking to conceive, it is vital that you take the required supplements to ensure that your body is in the best condition.
One of the substances that is generally recommended for women trying to conceive is folic acid. It aids in the production of red blood cells as well as DNA. While it is known that are a lot of benefits that come with ingesting folic acid for pregnant women, it is equally beneficial for women trying to get pregnant and for men as well.
What is Folic Acid?
A synthetic form of the vitamin B9, folic acid is one of the water-soluble vitamins that aid the fundamental action of cell metabolism. It is one of the eight vitamins that are soluble in water and in its natural form, vitamin B9 is called folate. They are found in many foods that are eaten commonly including spinach, pumpkin, oysters, carrots, okra, asparagus, liver and broccoli. There are a lot of other foods that provide the same, including poultry, rice, beans, eggs, nuts, meat and dairy products.
If needed, folic acid can be added to other foods so as to increase their vitamin content. It can be found in nutritional supplements as well if needed and they’re found in bread, pasta, cereals, rice and a lot of other grain-based foods.
How does Folic Acid Help Increase Fertility?
Folic acid is known to be great for fertility. Here are some ways it can enhance fertility.
Male Fertility
Folic acid plays a role in helping male fertility and increasing chances of helping the sperm fertilize the egg. Here are some other ways in which it is useful:
Higher sperm count:
Folic acid increases sperm count and this can help men gain the necessary supplements in order to help their partners get pregnant. While women need to generally time their cycle correctly and know when they’re ovulating, sometimes; the problems could be with her man. When a man’s sperm count is low, there won’t be enough sperm to travel and fertilize the egg because the pathway is long.
This pathway runs via the fallopian tubes from the cervix to the egg and the sperm generally traverses this path. If pregnancy occurs when the man takes 700 mcg of folic acid, then it can be attributed to the folic acid.
Lesser risk of sperm abnormalities
When men consume folic acid, it doesn’t only help with their sperm count but actually helps in reducing their 20 to 30%. This reduces the risk of chromosomal abnormalities which can end up leading to birth defects such as Down Syndrome.
While it was believed that babies were born with chromosomal disorders due to egg defects, it has come to light that sperm abnormalities can cause issues as well. Folic acid consumption on a regular basis can help in bringing down these problems and improving fertility in men.
Boosts fertility when taken with other supplements
The best way to make folic acid work for men is to have it with other male fertility supplements such as Vitamin C and zinc. These can help increase sperm count and improve the quality of the sperm as well. When mixed with folic acid, they can help increase the overall motility and usefulness of the sperm. Folic acid boosts fertility in men by around 74% in a study conducted by a Netherlands-based medical University.
Female Fertility
Folic acid is crucial in enabling women to increase their chances of pregnancy by improving the fertility conditions in her body. Here are some of the ways in which folic acid is beneficial for women:
Working with other vitamins
By working with other vitamins and minerals, folic acid helps women to get pregnant faster by improving conditions for sperm fertilization. There are a lot of other vitamins that aid in the process and folic acid is not the only one required. Women are generally advised to have a folic acid supplement along with a prenatal vitamin that usually has about 40 mcg of the nutrients.
A bit of extra folic acid is always recommended along with vitamin C, vitamin B6, zinc, iron and niacin amongst others to help get pregnant.
Increase the egg quality
Similar to how folic acid improves the quality of sperm in men, it also aids in improving the egg quality in women. If women begin having folic acid a few months before they attempt conceiving, then the chance of a baby born with a chromosomal/birth defect reduces greatly. The folic acid will help in keeping the egg healthy and away from any disease-causing agents.
Improve the quality of the cervical mucus
Consistency in the cervical mucus is very important when it comes to helping women conceive. A lot of women chart their cycles by checking the texture and colour of the cervical mucus but when the ovulation is near, it is important to note that there is a substantial amount of the mucus. This mucus helps the sperm travel and meet the egg.
Prevent anaemia
Women who suffer from even the slightest bouts of anaemia can find it hard to ovulate because the lack of iron can disturb the balance of the hormones. When close to 400 mcg of folic acid is added to other mineral supplements, at least 3 months before conceiving, it can help increase the levels of iron in the blood. Iron helps in regulating the hormonal regulation and due to this, ovulation will return to expected levels.
Recommended Intake of Folic Acid for Men and Women
The intake levels of folic acid for men and women can be segregated as follows:
For women 14 years and above, as well as for men, 400 mcg is recommended
For breastfeeding women, 500 mcg
For pregnant women, 600 mcg
Enriched bread and cereals are the best way to get your dose of folate and folic acid. Most of the foods are added with extra folic acid, so regular consumption of these should improve fertility levels.
Foods that are Rich in Folic Acid
Here are a few foods that have rich content of folic acid in them. You can consume them regularly to help your body gain the necessary nourishment:
Food
Amount
Beef liver
215 mcg
Spinach
131 mcg
Asparagus
89 mcg
Black-eyed peas
105 mcg
White rice
90 mcg
Romaine lettuce
64 mcg
Brussels sprouts
78 mcg
Avocado
59 mcg
Broccoli
52 mcg
Spinach
58 mcg
Source: https://www.verywellfamily.com/folic-acid-for-female-and-male-fertility-1959878
Is It Safe for Women to take Folic Acid Supplements?
Folic acid is an important requirement for women and despite it being added to breads and cereals, a lot of women don’t get enough of it. Women who are looking to get pregnant are recommended a daily dose of 400 mcg of folic acid. During pregnancy, around 600 mcg is advised.
A lot of doctors will recommend prenatal vitamins to help women conceive or just a multivitamin to be had daily. As long as the multivitamin includes 400 mcg of folic acid, it is good to go. Folic acid is also a water-soluble vitamin so it needs to be replaced on a daily basis.
What are the Risks of taking High Doses of Folic Acid?
There are risks involved when you end up having too much folic acid as well and it is important that you only have the dosage recommended by your doctor. The daily intake of folic acid should not exceed more than 1000 mcg. Large doses may cover for vitamin B-12 deficiency but folic acid and infertility can occur if too much is consumed. B-12 levels need to be tested before going ahead and including extra supplements.
Also, high doses can harm the DNA synthesis inside the sperm and it can also interact with other medications. Folic acid can reduce the effectiveness of phenytoin, which is an anti-seizure drug. Some fertility blends also include some herbs which interact with the fertility drugs and cause problems.
Thus, folic acid can play a big role in ensuring that both men and women are able to increase their fertility levels. While they are found in most common foods, an extra dosage of folic acid on a regular basis can help in conceiving. It is recommended that you visit a doctor before going ahead with any extra dosage as too much of it can cause issues as well.
Also Read:
Fertility Treatments Options for Men and Women
Home Remedies to Increase Fertility in Men and Women
Best Herbs to Boost Fertility Read more
Suggested for you
Diastasis Recti (Abdominal Wall Separation) after Pregnancy
Motherhood, for most women, is the most cherished experience. However, it comes along with physical and hormonal changes that can become an inconvenience.
What is Diastasis Recti?
The term diastasis recti refer to the abdominal wall separation after the pregnancy. ‘Diastasis’ means separation and ‘recti’ means rectus abdominis or the ab muscles.
In simple terms, the protruding belly pooch or the bulge that remains apparent for some women, even after losing pregnancy weight can be diastasis recti.
What Causes Diastasis Recti?
There are two parallel bands of vertical muscles in the abdomen which are connected by tissues. These abdominal muscles are responsible for stabilizing the core and holding the internal organs together. During pregnancy, as the foetus grows, the uterus pushes the muscles in the abdomen to stretch on either side. This stretch causes the abdomen muscles to separate and this leads to the muscles losing their shape and create a gap in the middle of the abdomen.
It is a natural process during pregnancy for the muscles to separate. In due course of healing, it attains the previous form. If it does not, for a prolonged time, then you may have chances of having diastasis recti.
How To Know That You Have Diastasis Recti?
A common DIY technique is followed by women to identify the separations. The steps are -
Step 1: Lie down on the floor on your back with your knees folded and feet on the ground.
Step 2: Place your palms on your stomach on the two sides of the belly button. Now, very gently lift your head, not as much as you would do for your crunches, but just a slight lift.
Step 3: Move your fingers on the line of the belly button; you may feel that you are able to dig your fingers in what may appear as a gap in the belly.
Diastasis is commonly measured in terms of how many fingers deep the separation of the two muscles is felt. You can verify the same with your gynaecologist before arriving at a conclusion.
Other Complications Due To Diastasis Recti?
Mentioned are a few problems that are related to Diastasis Recti :
1. Umbilical Hernia
The likelihood to have a hernia, in the future, increases, if you suffer from abdominal separation for a long time. Hernia surgery may relapse if the diastasis is not treated properly.
2. Poor Posture
The ridge created in the abdomen results in a poor posture.
3. Lower Back Pain
Another associated complication is the lower back pain. The separation of the abdominal muscles leads to chronic back pain.
Do’s And Dont’s
Just like any other physical ailment, Diastasis Recti can be healed by following the right steps such as Kegel exercises. However, it can also be aggravated by issues like constipation.
Do’s:
Perform the exercises which gently work on your abdomen muscles. These suggestions are made for all women in the post-partum phase.
1. Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises are essentially about increasing pelvic muscle strength.
Kegel can be practised anywhere, anytime. You need to imagine trying to stop the flow of urine without moving your body.
It strengthens the pelvic muscles and prepares the body for labour and natural birthing. Body is better prepared to relax and control the pelvic muscles.
2. Core Strengthening Exercises
It is a good idea to start core strengthening exercises before you get pregnant. Benefits of core strengthening exercises :
It brings a balance in the body by training the pelvis, lower back, abdomen and hips, which results in fewer aches and pains during the pregnancy.
Strong core adapts better to the changes in the body and it is easier for the abdomen to get back in shape after the delivery.
Results have also shown that it minimizes the risk of diastasis recti and even improves it.
3. Body Postures
A corollary to the previous point, it is very important to maintain a good body posture.
A good posture reduces the pain at the lower back, pelvis and neck.
Allows more space for your baby to grow well.
Most importantly, it minimizes the chances of developing a diastasis recti and allows the muscles to get back to its form after the pregnancy.
4. Breathing Exercises
Benefits of breathing increases manifold for women during pregnancy.
It provides the body and brain with the required oxygen supply for the foetus.
Reduces stress and keeps the body at ease, so that it the muscles remain taut and recover quickly.
Don’ts :
Here are some of the things you shouldn’t do:
1. Exercises Which Puts Pressure On The Abdomen
Avoid push-ups, sit-ups, crunches and planks, which puts a direct strain on the abdomen and pelvic muscles. Also, avoid yoga and swimming postures which put a strain on the body.
2. Lifting Heavy objects
Lifting heavy items can put undue strain on your body.
3. Constipation
Constipation can lead you to exert pressure on the abdomen causing the condition to get worse. Always have a fibre rich diet and plenty of water to prevent constipation. If you have constipation, avoid straining for too long and pass motion only when there is an urgency to do so.
Treatment For Diastasis Recti
Here are some suggested measures on how to cure diastasis recti:
1. Physical Therapy
Diastasis recti physical therapy involves a trained therapist who provides postural training. He/she will also suggest some low impact, moderate intensity exercises to stabilize your core without disturbing abdominal muscles.
2. At-Home Exercises-Tupler Technique Or Mutu System
These techniques have gained popularity in the recent past. Backed by research and proven techniques, these at-home treatment series helps in healing diastasis recti by 55 percent. The focus is on training the separated muscles to become stronger and within a passage of time come together.
3. Surgery
If the above mentioned corrective actions fail or the results are not satisfactory, the last option is to undergo surgery. Also, a prolonged diastasis may lead to an abdominal hernia. The surgery, abdominoplasty, surgically reduce the gap between the two muscles. It is important to keep this as a last resort and to speak with the specialist on the process and the possible repercussions of the surgery.
Can A Splint Or Binder Help?
Specially designed for pregnant women, these maternity belts or abdominal binders have traditionally been used in different cultures in the post-partum phase. It is a non-invasive intervention that supports the abdominal muscles and controls the pain. The restricted muscle movement provides a natural tummy tuck and the firmness enables a good posture. Please consult your gynaecologist before you start wearing the belt.
Splints may help in the early stages by providing abdomen support, however, wearing splint alone may not substitute for the treatment of diastasis. The abdomen muscles need to get back to a correct alignment which may get restricted with the external pressure of the splint.
Exercises For Diastasis Recti
Diastasis can be corrected with the help of exercise. Here are a few abdominal separation exercises that you could do:
1. Belly Breathing
Lie on the floor on your back. Keep your palms gently on your lower rib cage. Next, inhale deeply but gently and allow your chest and belly to rise and feel the pressure on the diaphragm. Exhale.
2. Standing Push-ups
Stand facing the wall. Let the distance from the wall be an arms’ length. Keep your feet wide. Now place your palms on the wall and inhale. While you exhale, push your belly to the spine. Lean in towards the wall when you inhale and push outwards when you exhale.
3. Lower Abdomen Exercise
Lie on your side. With the other palm, feel your abdomen muscles. Then, gently pull your lower abdomen muscles towards your pelvic bone. Breathe normally throughout. Relax in between two sets.
4. Bent Knee Fallout
Lie on your back and keep your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Now inhale gently and lower one leg to the side while the other leg remains stationary. Repeat this with both legs.
How Often Should You Perform These Exercises?
You can start practising it from one week to three weeks after pregnancy. The breathing exercises can be done for 5 to 10-second hold. You can start with 2-3 iterations and increase as you get comfortable. It is recommended to consult your gynaecologist or a trained practitioner on your exercise patterns.
Is It Ever Too Late To Heal Your Diastasis?
No, it is not. Treating a diastasis recti post pregnancy is all about healing the connective tissue that brings together the abdominal walls back to its shape. Just remember that –
The process is gradual and slow, however, not impossible. With the correct exercises and techniques, it is possible to correct the diastasis.
Follow techniques which are scientifically backed and time-tested and if possible, under the guidance of a trained supervisor.
The time required to heal largely depends on your body constitution and the width of the separation.
Motherhood brings along a plethora of changes in a woman’s life. While is truly rewarding basking in the joy of being a new mother, it is also of utmost importance that women take care of themselves. A problem like diastasis recti is extremely common, yet, the most under-noticed and least talked about. It is time that women take charge of their self and take necessary actions. So, stay aware, stay healthy and stay happy!
Also Read: Pregnancy Massage: Benefits & Techniques Read more
Check out this new Memory
Gazala Aarif khan
Mom of a 10 m old boy
22 mins ago
#babyphotochallenge
1 Likes
0 Comment
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Winter Care and Fun With Toddlers
Toddlers will always be on the move - they will be their boss and will stick to doing what they want to no matter what. They will have a lot of energy to explore the world, and they will learn how to become independent in their ways - even the winter season can't stop them, so it's best to take good care of them so they can explore.
Parents cannot expect their little ones to sit in one place under a warm blanket and only sit or sleep - they want to move, learn, play, run, and explore the world with each passing day and want to learn how things work around them, which will also help with growing their knowledge and skills. Thus, keeping them warm and ready every time is essential.
Here are a few ways in which you can take care of your toddler as she explores the winter season:
1. Appropriate Clothing - Layer up the Winter
Dress your kid up in layers to keep her warm in the winter by making her wear either a sweater, a sweatshirt, a jacket, and some warm socks and pants, depending on how cold the weather is. You can take some of the clothes off if it gets warm.
2. Accessories for Winter
Some winter essentials for your little one include sweaters, warm pants, mittens, gloves, sacks, warm boots, and winter hats.
3. Skincare: Winter Moisturizer
Moisturise your baby's body with a moisturising lotion that is great for dry and sensitive winter skin.
4. Warm Water
Using warm water while bathing your child will prevent her from falling sick.
5. Vaccination
A good way to keep your child problem-free during the winter season is by being up-to-date with all the vaccinations.
6. Play and Beat the Winters
Do not be afraid of letting your child play outside because of the cold weather. Let her run around, grow, and have fun with all your protective measures. Warm clothes, socks and hats are your best friend at this point.
7. Indoor Activities with Your Toddler
There are several indoor activities you can do with your toddler during the winter season. You can go to malls with arcades which have activities for toddlers. You could also let them paint or draw at home using paints and crayons. There are several indoor games you can play with your child or best; you can host a small game party so all your toddler's friends can come to your house and play. Some mellow activities include reading books, singing rhymes and dancing with your toddler.
8. Protection from Cold and Infections
Cold and infections happen when viruses spread. In this case, try to limit outdoor activities with your child. Avoid direct exposure to the cold breeze as it can make your child sick. Aside from this, a few basic manners such as covering her mouth as she sneezes would go a long way in keeping her and her friends safe from contagious infections. Watch for any signs of cold your child may develop, and make sure she always washes her hands with water and hand wash before and after playing.
9. Food
Give your child some warm soup in addition to their daily diet. Let her have warm chicken and vegetable soup to make her winters warm.
10. Stay Hydrated
Usually, we don't drink too much water during winters as compared to other seasons, but a right amount of water is essential to keep your child hydrated. Make sure she drinks enough water to stay hydrated.
Shop for Winter Essentials
Make sure you have all the things you need to keep your toddler warm and comfy during the winter season.
Essentials for winters
Warm and cosy clothes
Mittens, gloves, socks and boots
Winter Hats
Warm and lightweight blankets
Baby moisturisers
Wipes and tissues
Sanitizers and handwash
This winter, let your child explore the beauty and joy of the cold season. Make sure to take care of your child's internal and external health by taking simple measures mentioned above. Happy exploring!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
Read more
Suggested for you
Moru Curry (Seasoned Buttermilk without Coconut)
Moru curry is a very popular dish among the Keralites and is an unavoidable part of their everyday meal. Moru curry can be made with coconut too, but we have made it sans the coconut and trust us it turned out just as good as the one with coconut. Steamed rice accompanied with this seasoned milk tastes absolutely divine is truly simplicity at its best.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
5 People
5 - 10 Minutes
5 – 10 Minutes
Ingredients
500 ml buttermilk
3 - 4 shallots
1 tsp ginger, chopped
2 - 3 garlic cloves, chopped
2 red chilli
2 green chilli
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
a pinch of fenugreek seeds
2 sprigs curry leaves
1 tbsp oil
Salt to taste
Method
Step 1
Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds to it. Once it splutters, add mustard seeds.
Step 2
Add ginger and garlic. Keep mixing until it turns golden brown.
Step 3
Add red chilli, green chilli, shallots and curry leaves. Mix and cook for 1 - 2 minute.
Step 4
Add turmeric powder and mix well.
Step 5
Pour the buttermilk to the pan and stir. Add salt and stir well.
Step 6
Keep stirring for 1 - 2 min. Do not allow it to boil. Switch off the flame and serve hot or chilled with rice.
Nutritional Information
Calories
80 K cal
Proteins
4.0 g
Fat
3.8 g
Carbohydrates
7.6 g
Cholesterol
4 mg
Sodium
145 mg
Potassium
217 mg
Read more
Suggested for you
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. Which medicine i should take for cold during 9month pregnancy?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. Only whatever your gynaecologist suggest because during the time of pregnancy we don’t advise you to take any medicine without consulting the gynaecologist as some women can have side-effects also so better to check with your doctor
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. I have taken dydraboon tablets for 5 days started from 28 day it has been 8 days after last tablet yesterday I have done pregnancy test I got faint I have attached pic let me know what it's means I have taken pic within 5 mins only
Read moreDr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. do serum beta hcg. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the child
Nm Anish Ali Hamja has added a new answer
Mom of a 3 yr 2 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. is there any tablet to prepone periods
Nm Anish Ali Hamja
Father of a 3 yr 1 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. No
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Father due in 6 months
1 hour ago
Q. from which month or week to take calcium and iron tablets during pregnancy
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. I think after completing your first trimester you can start having Iron and calcium supplement you should have them till the time you do not deliver deliver after delivery you should have them for another six months to 1 year depending upon what your doctor suggest
PiaPiousPM has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
53 mins ago
Q. after 7 missing of periods I got faint line first then I have tested USG and TVs it was 7 days after I missed my periods there was negetive results then doctor gave me a medicine which called macgest sr 200 then after 15 days of missing my periods I got this result am I pregnant because I do not have nasuea but have tender brest only this is the last test photo and 2 image was the 7 days of missing my periods
Read morePiaPiousPM
Mom of a 3 m old boy
19 mins ago
A. Yes you are.. Get it confirmed with an ultrasound for viability
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
32 mins ago
Q. I am 28 weeks pregnant and layed on my stomach for few seconds. is it worrisome?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
22 mins ago
A. If it was just a few seconds and it is not going to make a difference yet if you want to be more sure about it if it is more for you then you can get an ultrasound done with your doctor but as far as I know few seconds are not going to make any difference but still you can check with the doctor
Check out this new Memory
Sanjay Singh
Expecting Guardian due this month
2 mins ago
07/5/2024
7.2pa
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Roshiya J
Mom of a 5 m old boy
2 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
SUBHASREE CHAKRABORTY
Mom of a 3 m old girl
20 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Neha Duggal
Mom of a 7 m old girl
24 mins ago
#grandphoto
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive