Part 2 – Preconception

We have previously acknowledged the role that Chinese medicine, especially herbalism, can play in preconception for both mum- and dad-to-be. Here we will also look at some steps that you can take that address lifestyle and diet.

In Chinese medicine, there is not one treatment for every case with a similar problem. This is because we are looking at the person as a whole – what is going on internally for them (qi, blood, emotions, diet) as well as externally (their homes, workplaces and environments.

Every person has unique nuances that are addressed in their specific herbal or acupuncture formulation. We are looking at the “branches” (the symptoms or manifestations) as well as the “root” (the cause).  As such, I am unable to give individually specific advice here, but am able to give more general advice.

One of the core principles of Chinese medicine is about balance. There should be variety without extremes. It means a little often, not binging – be it food, emotions, experiences, whatever.

With regards to food, eat a wide range of foods – making sure you have balance. I recommend protein, grains and vegetables/fruit at every meal. Home-cooked foods are always preferable, as you can ensure the safety of all the ingredients.

Eat seasonal and locally produced food. This is not only beneficial for the environment, but it means that you are consuming foods that are suited to the climate where you are at the time.

Now and throughout the pregnancy, the quality of your foods becomes even more important – mums and dads.

Ideally eat organic foods – if the budget is tight, make sure that your animal products are organic. Eat low-mercury fish: blue mackerel, snapper, ocean trout, small oily fish, Atlantic salmon, mullet, john dory, flathead. Store your foods in glass, ceramic or stainless steel (avoid plastics, plastic wraps, aluminium). Cooking pots and pans should be stainless steel – not teflon

Two non-negotiable rules for both men and women are:

• Stop smoking
• Stop drinking alcohol

Another area that is going to take some thinking and planning is to reduce your exposure to chemicals – both in the workplace and in the home.

If you are planning on “doing up baby’s room” – this is probably a good time. You will need to do it well in advance so that bub, and parents, are not breathing in the toxic fumes emitted from paints, floor coverings, varnishes, new furniture, and so on. Many of these items release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which are detrimental to your health.

Ideally, tradespeople can do the work for you so that you minimise your exposures. You will then need to ventilate the room well.

Other steps that you can take are:

• Take a look at your personal care, skin care and cosmetics – avoid chemicals wherever possible
• Avoid artificial fragrances – air fresheners, perfumes, aftershaves, fabric softeners, fragrant candles, fragrant oils. Use fresh flowers, essential oils and natural alternatives instead
• Invest in a water filter – reverse osmosis are the best
• Avoid using pesticides and herbicides… Fly swats, screens and weeding are all safe alternatives

There is a lot to think about here and possibly a lot of changes to put into place. Next time we will look at conception.