Gluten Free TTC

hmsnbl103

Hi everyone!  I have a quick question.  I have a little 16 month old, who we got pregnant with the first try.  The 3-4 cycles I had after finishing breastfeeding were 28 days, no troubles.  In March I did the Whole 30 challenge (strict paleo) and did not ovulate.  After it was finished, I didn't have a period until the very end of April, making my cycle around 60 days.  That period ended May 3rd and I have not had one since.    My husband and I have been trying to get pregnant for a couple months, and no surprise, since it seems like I may not be ovulating, we have had no success.  I've had digestive issues for as long as I can remember and I learned while doing Whole 30, I need to follow a gluten free diet.  That is the only change I have made lately.  I know untreated celiac disease can cause infertility issues, but what about going gluten free?  Has anyone had trouble like this?  Thanks!

janda426

I was just diagnosed with celiac disease a week ago today and have been following a gluten free diet. I haven't heard anything related to TTC and a GF diet. I can't imagine it would cause any issues since its a protein you're not taking in any more and not a vitamin or anything. Obviously check with the Dr but I never even thought this could be an issue

mcatmay

I don't know about gluten-free specifically but diet can have an impact on conception. This is a really long and fairly detailed article from newsweek but it may have some answers for you:

https://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2007/12/01/fat-carbs-and-the-science-of-conception.html

 I would also just look at your calorie intake and percent body fat. You need a certain amount of calories/body fat to be able to support reproduction. That's why athletes at the top end of the range often don't cycle appropriately - because they're so lean and fit that they don't have the reserves to adequately support reproduction.

 

https://abcnews.go.com/Health/Wellness/female-athletes-compromise-fertility-intense-training-dieting/story?id=11539684#.UbiU2JVyH8s

I'm just extrapolating here but i would look at the whole picture. Otherwise, i'd talk to a nutritionist and get their input.  Good luck!

CruiseGirl28

My friend has celiac and not following a gluten free diet can cause issues with fertility. I would speak to a specialist.

StacyJYay

I follow a Paleo diet (which, as you point out, is gluten free).  When I was TTC my son, my gynecologist had no problem with it either before or during my pregnancy.  I've read that for women with gluten intolerance (especially for those with celiac disease), eating gluten may interfere with optimal fertility.  (Though I'm in no way suggesting that gluten interferes with fertility for those who don't have intolerances.)  When in doubt, consult with your gynecologist or perhaps even a gastroenterologist.  Good luck TTC!    

candrew05

I believe in GF and that it will help with fertility.

There is a running joke at the crossfit gym where everyone does paleo that once they start they get KU. Literally 7 different girls who all happened to start at same time lol.

I'm obviously not in that group yet but, think the healthier you can be the better the chances.

Edit: I don't know why it would make you more infertile???

braintree

I am GF and was when I got pregnant with DD also.  I have never heard being GF affecting your cycle.  If anything, it's better for fertility if you have celiac.  good luck!