Support Infertility Awareness Week - May 19-26

Hey everyone,

This week is Infertility Awareness Week - a cause that is very important to me.  I see patients everyday who are suffering with fertility issues.  Infertility affects approximately 1 in 6 couples.  I guarantee you know someone suffering from infertility, even if you are not aware of their struggles.  Many couples suffer in silence because they are embarrassed or ashamed by this diagnosis.  However, infertility is a medical diagnosis, just like any other.  We need to continue to increase the public's awareness of infertility and the impact it has.

IAAC (Infertility Awareness Association of Canada) is a great resource  for Canadian couples suffering from infertility and they are organizing some amazing events this week to promote infertility awareness.

Alcohol in Pregnancy?

Hey everyone,

Last week, we received a great pre-pregnancy question by one of our readers:

"What about alcohol? Is a glass of red wine with dinner okay, or should one who is trying to conceive and having difficulty omit it all together?"

This is a common question for both women trying to conceive and expectant mothers... 

Is excess weight affecting your fertility?

Hey everyone,

If you're reading this blog, you probably already know how much your weight affects your overall health. But did you know that being overweight or obese can have a significant impact on your fertility and ability to achieve and maintain a healthy pregnancy?

Check out Revivelife TV!

 Hey everyone,

A few months ago Tannys appeared as a guest on Revivelife. This program, by naturopathic Dr. Joel, airs weekly on Rogers TV.

Recently Featured in Total Fit Magazine!

Hey everyone,

Tannys recently had the opportunity to contribute an article to the Ottawa magazine "TotalFit".  This magazine, promoting premium fitness and healthy living, is available online, as well in select stores (e.g. Chapters) throughout Ottawa. 

5 lifestyle changes to make before you conceive

It can take up to two weeks after conception before a woman knows that she is pregnant.  This very early stage of pregnancy is important, as you can unknowingly expose your baby to harmful behaviours.  Read on to learn about 5 lifestyle changes you should make before you conceive, to optimize your chance for a healthy pregnancy.

Caffeine in pregnancy?

Most people have some amount of caffeine in their diet, whether it is from coffee, tea, soft drinks, or energy drinks. Given the prevalence of these products, many women of reproductive age consume these beverages, but seldom stop to wonder - how much is safe during pregnancy?

Is it safe to consume herbal remedies in pregnancy?

As “natural” products become more widespread and well-known, many women are taking these products to improve their health.  Although most herbal remedies are considered to be “natural”, they can have medication-like effects. As a result, some of these products can be dangerous for you and your baby.

Can I use artificial sweeteners if I’m pregnant or trying to conceive?

It is hard to eliminate artificial sweeteners from your diet, since they are now
incorporated into so many food products. Luckily, it appears that most artificial
sweeteners are safe to consume in pregnancy, although research is still limited.

How to avoid BPA – An endocrine disruptor

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a chemical used primarily to make polycarbonate plastics (e.g. bottles, food containers, processing equipment) and epoxy resins (e.g. protective linings in cans and bottles).  Worries about this product started back in 2008, due to BPA’s “hormone-like” properties. It was declared a toxic substance in Canada in 2010.

Eating for two?

It is a common misconception that once a woman is pregnant, she is “eating for two”.  This is a risky way to think, as in many cases it will lead to higher gestational weight gain than required or recommended. 

Is it safe to eat fish during pregnancy?

Many women are leery to consume fish during pregnancy due to concerns regarding mercury consumption and the effect on their developing baby.

Studies, however, show that it important to consume fish which contain omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and when breastfeeding.  These polyunsaturated fatty acids are vital in fetal and newborn central nervous system (brain) and visual development.

Is it safe to exercise during my fertility treatments?

One common question that women ask about is the safety of exercise during fertility treatments.  The answer to this question depends on the type of fertility treatment you are undergoing, potential complications, as well as your general health and exercise history.