Not Just for Mums, But Dads Too
Vitamin D’s influence extends beyond mothers-it is key to optimising male fertility. The World Health Organization reports that half of the incidence of infertility is caused by male-factor infertility, which is characterised by poor sperm quantity, poor sperm motility and morphological defects.[12] Investing in a natural, high-quality vitamin D source may help support male sex hormone production, sperm production and sperm quality.[13]
Uterine Fibroids and Vitamin D
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are a common concern for women, affecting both their reproductive health and overall wellbeing. They’re the most common type of non-cancerous uterine tumour and can become particularly important during pregnancy. These fibroids might increase the risk of preterm births and pregnancy loss and raise the chances of certain complications, like placenta previa, placental abruption and foetal malpresentation. These issues can happen because multiple or large fibroids can physically influence the normal pregnancy progression.[14]
Recent research has shed light on the potential benefits of vitamin D. Not only are vitamin D receptors present in various tissues, including reproductive organs, but experimental data also suggest that vitamin D might effectively counteract uterine fibroids. Studies have shown that vitamin D treatment can reduce cell proliferation, hinder fibrotic factors (formation or progression of fibrosis) and induce apoptosis (cell death, eliminating damaged or unnecessary cells). Vitamin D could stand as a promising non-surgical therapeutic option. These revelations suggest a path toward safe, long-term medical treatment for uterine fibroids.
It’s important for individuals with uterine fibroids who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider. They can offer guidance tailored to each person’s situation, helping ensure a healthy pregnancy journey.
In the realm of reproductive health and the journey to parenthood, cod liver oil’s potential emerges as a beacon of natural support. Packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A and D, alongside crucial fatty acids, cod liver oil offers a comprehensive approach to nurturing fertility, pregnancy and overall wellness. From addressing ovulatory challenges, enhancing pregnancies, potentially aiding male fertility, and offering solutions for uterine fibroids, cod liver oil’s potential is expansive. As families embark on the path to parenthood, the enriching touch of cod liver oil provides a source of nourishment that could enhance family health and wellbeing.
References:
[1] Protein intake and ovulatory infertility[2] Fish Oil Supplementation in Pregnancy Increases Gestational Age, Size for Gestational Age, and Birth Weight in Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial[3] Use of cod liver oil during pregnancy associated with lower risk of Type I diabetes in the offspring[4] Effect of supplementing pregnant and lactating mothers with n-3 very-long-chain fatty acids on children’s IQ and body mass index at 7 years of age[5] Maternal supplementation with very-long-chain n-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and lactation augments children’s IQ at 4 years of age[6] Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation During Pregnancy[7] Vitamin D deficiency in Europe: pandemic?[8] Accumulating evidence for vitamin D and conception[9] 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Long Menstrual Cycles in a Prospective Cohort Study[10] Pre-conception 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and fecundability[11] World Health Organisation – Infertility.[12] The role of vitamin D in male fertility: A focus on the testis[13] The risk of preterm birth in women with uterine fibroids: A systematic review and meta-analysis[14] Vitamin D deficiency and uterine fibroids: an opportunity for treatment or prevention?Visit the Rosita Real Foods website in Australia, New Zealand and the UK to find out more. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
