Doctor Visits

I went to the OB/gyn today and I love that she is always optimistic, but today's visit depressed me. She is confident I will get pregnant, but I worry about how much of that relies on how financially capable we are for extra measures.  She is currently putting me on clomid to regulate my ovulation, so I am following through with the early steps. Although my hormone levels are normal, I have only ovulated twice in the last 4 months, making it harder to conceive.  Coupled with my husband's semen analysis, which is mildly abnormal, the two of us lower the chance of conception.

It's difficult thinking ahead when feeling discouraged.  But my OB/gyn and I discussed when it was appropriate to re-evaluate my current treatment, infertility options & costs, and success rates.  And the whole thing just sucks.  The gravity of trying unsuccessfully for a baby alone is harrowing, but it is emotionally exhausting after losing my daughter.  It's difficult finding the motivation to plan or make decisions about what should be done to ensure conception.  And it is easy to place blame elsewhere.  

I think today is a a 30 minute yoga flow day.  I included a video in case anyone is feeling the same way.   

      

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Bottom's Up

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Spirulina
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae known for being rich in micro and macronutrients [1]. In vivo and in vitro studies suggest spirulina may improve immunity, inhibit allergies, and provide anti-viral & anti-tumor effects [1].  However, evidence establishing human benefits have not been shown and further studies are required [1].  It is important spirulina is only purchased from trusted brands, as it can be contaminated with heavy metals and microcystins [1].

    

I have had so many green drinks in the last few days, I think I'm finally getting used to the taste again!  Sometimes the amount of kale makes the juice bitter.  And I usually add a tablespoon of spirulina, which is overpowering.  But today I used a sample of Amazing Greens I found at New Seasons because it comes with spirulina and many different additional vegetables.  The packet touts detoxifying and alkalining properties.  And yes, I fell for it.  But I must admit, it tasted incredible.

My husband's semen analysis came back mildly abnormal a few weeks ago, so a follow up is required if we are not pregnant in the next 2 months.  In the interim, everything I make for me, I share with him. 

Eating healthy on a budget is a little hard when you're trying to eat a large & diverse amount of vegetable & fruits, as well as "superfoods." But I comparison-shop and rely on bulk bins & the Grocery Outlet for organics & gluten-free items that are overpriced elsewhere.  Everyday I make sure to have at least one drink!

REFERENCES

Spirulina. (n.d.). Holistik Health.  Retrieved June 20, 2015 at http://holistikhealth.com/superfoods/spirulina/. 
Spirulina.  (2011).  University of Maryland Medical Center.  Retrieved June 20, 2015 
               at http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/spirulina.

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