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The Impact of Alcohol When Trying to Conceive and in Pregnancy Introduction Alcohol is a common part of socialising and relaxing around friends. While this is generally acceptable in moderation, when you are trying to conceive or are pregnant, there are different recommendations to protect you and your baby. Recently, there has been a growing awareness of alcohol, fertility and pregnancy. This blog will explore effects of alcohol on conception and pregnancy and provide you with some alternatives so you can still have fun whilst socialising, without missing out on some delicious drinks! Does alcohol hinder chances of conception? Alcohol decreases the chance of conception. Why? Alcohol can affect hormones and ovulation (Emanuele, Wezeman and Emanuele, 2024) Men drinking alcohol also reduces the chance of conception (Finelli, Mottola and Agarwal, 2021) Moderate drinking may delay conception NICE recommend 1-2 units once or twice a week, at most (NICE, 2017). This may look like 1 small glass of wine or a half pint of beer. However, the chances of conception are highest if you and your partner stop drinking while trying to conceive. Alcohol during pregnancy NICE do not recommend any consumption of alcohol during pregnancy. This is because there is no safe level of consumption of alcohol in pregnancy. Any consumption of alcohol in pregnancy increases the risk of: Why? Alcohol passes through the placenta, so your baby would be exposed to the alcohol you drink. Without a fully developed liver, this is very dangerous for your baby’s health and development. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy may lead to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder causes difficulties such as: (CDC, 2024; CanFASD, 2017) The more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk for you and your baby’s health. There is no safe amount of alcohol that can be consumed during pregnancy. Avoiding alcohol during pregnancy supports your health and your babies development. There is always a risk, even occasional drinks (NHS, 2023) (NICE, 2022). Alcoholic drink alternatives A lot of non-alcoholic drinks are very high in sugar. Here are some alternatives that aren’t super high in sugar: Conclusion Reducing alcohol consumption may increase the chances of conceiving and protect the health of you and your unborn baby. However, there is no safe amount to drink during pregnancy. Try some of the alternatives in this blog to keep social events fun at this exciting time of your life! If you are struggling, please reach out to a healthcare professional. For more information on Nutrition during Pregnancy, read here Written by nutrition student Millie Rose, reviewed and edited by Niamh Dunne References CanFASD. (2017). Basic Information – CanFASD. [online] Available at: https://canfasd.ca/topics/basic-information/. CDC (2024). About Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). [online] Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/fasd/about/index.html. Emanuele, M.A., Wezeman, F. and Emanuele, N.V. (2024). Alcohol’s Effects on Female Reproductive Function. Alcohol Research & Health, [online] 26(4), p.274. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6676690/. Finelli, R., Mottola, F. and Agarwal, A. (2021). Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Male Fertility Potential: A Narrative Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(1), p.328. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010328. Jensen, T.K., Hjollund, N.H.I., Henriksen, T.B., Scheike, T., Kolstad, H., Giwercman, A., Ernst, E., Bonde, J.P., Skakkebak, N.E. and Olsen, J. (1998). Does moderate alcohol consumption affect fertility? Follow up study among couples planning first pregnancy. BMJ, 317(7157), pp.505–510. doi:https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.317.7157.505. NHS (2023). Drinking alcohol while pregnant. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/drinking-alcohol-while-pregnant/. NICE (2017) Fertility problems: assessment and treatment. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg156/resources/fertility-problems-assessment-and-treatment-35109634660549 NICE (2022) Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/qs204/chapter/Quality-statement-1-Advice-on-avoiding-alcohol-in-pregnancy

Can Our Diet Help Manage Menopause Symptoms? Written by Millie Rose What is menopause? Menopause occurs when the hormone estrogen reduces and your period eventually stops. This usually occurs between 45 and 55, although it can happen earlier. It can happen naturally or surgically, by hysterectomy. In the lead up to menopause, you may begin to have symptoms but still have periods, this is called perimenopause. After 12 months without a period, menopause is determined. Made using Canva What symptoms does menopause cause? Menopause and perimenopause can be difficult for many women, causing anxiety, brain fog, hot flushes, and irregular periods. Many women have these symptoms during perimenopause and after menopause. As well as this, a lot of women also struggle with weight gain during this time. HRT, hormone replacement therapy, is a common treatment prescribed by doctors to treat symptoms of menopause or perimenopause. This treatment works by increasing the levels of oestrogen, a hormone that naturally decreases at menopause. (NHS, 2019) While HRT can be used to treat symptoms, many women still struggle with weight gain at menopause. For women in menopause, or perimenopause, it may be useful to use a combination of HRT and small changes in dietary habits to improve symptoms. As well as this, at menopause, there are some nutrients that may need more attention to, in order to protect your body. This blog will delve into key nutrients at menopause, how your diet can affect symptoms, how to eat for your symptoms and behaviour techniques to keep menopause weight off; to make you feel the most comfortable in your body. Read until the end for a sample menopause meal plan! Key nutrients at menopause Vitamin D and Calcium The reduction in estrogen can lead to reduced bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis, a disease which weakens bones and increases the chance of fractures (NHS, 2022). During this time, adequate consumption of calcium and vitamin D is vital. Adults need 700mg of calcium per day, this should be achieved through diet unless advised by a healthcare professional otherwise. In the UK, it is advised to take a 10mg vitamin D tablet per day during autumn and winter. Foods high in Calcium include: (NHS, 2020) Foods high in Vitamin D: (NHS, 2020) Magnesium Women during menopause may feel more tired or fatigued, which may lead to increased need for naps during the day. When deficient in magnesium, these symptoms can be heightened. Foods high in Magnesium: (NHS, 2020) B vitamins- B1, B5, B6 The different B vitamins are essential for heart function, mental performance and regulating hormones. This is vital during menopause when hormones are changing. Foods high in B vitamins: B vitamin sources (NHS, 2020) Zinc During menopause, some women experience dry skin, brittle hair, and nails. Zinc can improve this, as well as immunity and mood stability. Foods high in Zinc: (NHS, 2020) (BNF, 2022) How can diet affect menopause symptoms? The British Menopause Society have identified that caffeine, alcohol, and spices may increase hot flushes and disturb sleep (BMS, 2023). Estrogen normally enhances the fullness hormone, leptin, and suppresses ghrelin, the hunger hormone, however both decrease at menopause. Due to the removal of some of the estrogen, the body is less sensitive to leptin, making it more difficult to know when you’re full and cravings increase, making it more likely for you to put on weight at menopause. There is evidence to show this in animals, but further research is needed for clarification in humans (Ainslie et al., 2001). The British Dietetic Association have claimed that “increasing wholegrains, fruit, and vegetables, and reducing fat intake are moderately effective in reducing hot flushes.” They found these effects were also larger for women who also lost weight too. Additionally, some evidence suggests having a healthy gut microbiome may affect hormone levels. To optimise your gut health, it is recommended to eat 30 different plant foods each week (BDA, 2019). This includes wholegrains, such as beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices. Even dark chocolate (>70% cocoa) and tofu count. The key here is variety. When purchasing peppers, purchase a selection of red, green, orange and yellow rather than just red. These will count as 4 (for 4 colours) plant points. Additionally, consuming fermented foods regularly such as sauerkraut, kimchi and kefir can improve our gut health. Research shows that a Mediterranean style diet protects bone density, reduces the risk of heart disease, and supports a healthy diet at menopause (BNF, 2022). The Mediterranean style diet includes a diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, legumes, olive oil and fish. Plant oestrogens, found in plants, such as soya beans, flax seeds and linseeds, may help at menopause as they help our gut bacteria (BDA, 2019). They do not feed the gut like fibre, but they use gut bacteria to be converted into compounds that mimic estrogen. This helps to reduce symptoms like hot flushes in some women. Cholesterol tends to rise at menopause; this can affect your heart health (BDA, 2019). Read blog on Nutrition for Heart Health to make sure you are protecting your heart health. Food habits Sometimes it is not what you eat, but how you eat. Your behaviour and habits surrounding food can affect food choices and how much you eat. Creating intention with mealtimes, such as preparing a food shop with foods that make you feel good ensures you have those foods accessible when it comes to cooking. Read blog ‘Do you need to change your behaviour around food?’ to read about: 10 tips to improve your symptoms with dietary changes: Sample meal plan Breakfast: Yoghurt with my Pecan, Almond & Cinnamon Granola Lunch: My Rice Buddha Bowl Dinner: My Salmon, lemony asparagus, roasted vegetables and mash Snacks: My Crunchy Chocolate Quinoa Bites, my Delicious Veggie Sausage Rolls Drinks: Water, unsweetened decaffeinated tea or coffee and Kombucha- a drink containing probiotics, meaning it feeds your gut. Look out for no added sugar varieties Conclusion

Do you need to change your behaviour around food? Written by Millie Rose Introduction to behavior change and food Healthy eating isn’t just about knowing what‘s good for you, it’s also about changing the habits and behaviour that shape your food choices. The way we think, the people around us, and even the environment we live in all play a big role in what ends up on our plates. In this blog, we’ll explore: Psychology of Food Choices Psychology looks at why we choose the foods we do. It’s powerful because small changes in how we think or what we’re surrounded by can shift our eating patterns. One important idea here is cognitive bias. This means automatic errors in thinking that affect how we see food and the choices we make, often without realising it (Da Silva, Gupta and Monzani, 2023). Simply, our brain sometimes tricks us into making food choices that don’t always match our long-term goals. Cognitive biases often show up in emotional eating (my blog on intuitive vs mindful eating may be helpful). This is when we eat to try and change how we feel rather than because we’re hungry. Emotional eating is guided by feelings rather than hunger cues, and it can have a big impact on our food decisions (Betancourt-Núñez et al., 2022). It can also reduce appetite at first, but then lead to hunger and overeating later in the day (Betancourt-Núñez et al., 2022). 30% have increased appetite when experiencing a negative emotion48% have decreased appetite when facing a negative emotion22% appetite doesn’t change when facing a negative emotion(Betancourt-Núñez et al., 2022) Habit Formation and Breaking Bad Eating Habits Food habits can form at any time, from childhood into adulthood. There are many factors to forming habits, such as work pattern, taste and texture preferences, culture, budgets and surrounding environment (Fisberg, Giogia and Maximino, 2023). There are two types of behaviour: Habitual: a repeated behaviour cued by the environment/external stimuli (Brown, 2024), they are automatic or unconsciousNon-habitual: a behaviour followed after consideration, they are deliberate and conscious (Wood, Quinn and Kashy, 2002) Habitual problems can be problematic. But why? 4 things we can do: The Role of Social Influences in Eating Family, friends and your social circle can impact your food choices as we often mirror what people around us are doing. This may happen with portion sizes, time of eating and food choice. Follow these 3 tips to navigate social influences and peer pressure: Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Intrinsic motivation = doing a behaviour because you want to, perhaps because you enjoy it or you want to reap the benefits of the action, for example, increasing your exercise from 1 x week to 3 x week because you want to feel fitter and stronger Extrinsic motivation = doing a behaviour for external rewards or to avoid judgement, for example, following a diet for praise from family or friends (Morris et al., 2022) What drives sustainable behaviour change? Using Nudges to Improve Eating Habits Nudges are subtle prompts that may help you change your eating behaviours. Some nudges that may help you: Practical Tips for Lasting Behaviour Change 2. Identifying the effect of the problem behaviour 3. Identifying a solution to the problem behaviour 4. Identifying the positive effect of changing your problem behaviour 5. Holding yourself accountable 6. Overcoming setbacks Conclusion: Long-term Healthy Eating Embracing food change as a continuous process, not a quick fix, can take time to figure out. However, by making small changes over time to your behaviour and environment, you can make positive changes to your relationship with food and your diet. References Betancourt-Núñez, A., Torres-Castillo, N., Martínez-López, E., De Loera-Rodríguez, C.O., Durán-Barajas, E., Márquez-Sandoval, F., Bernal-Orozco, M.F., Garaulet, M. and Vizmanos, B. (2022). Emotional Eating and Dietary Patterns: Reflecting Food Choices in People with and without Abdominal Obesity. Nutrients, [online] 14(7), pp.1371–1371. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14071371. Brown, R. (2024). Habitual Health-Related Behaviour and Responsibility. Oxford University Press eBooks, [online] pp.210–226.doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780192872234.003.0010. Butcher, L.M., Batt, C., Royce, S., Barron, E., Giglia, R. and Begley, A. (2024). Analysing the behaviour change techniques in an effective food literacy program to inform future program design. Nutrition & Dietetics. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/1747-0080.12908. Celis-Morales, C., Livingstone, K.M., Marsaux, C.F., Macready, A.L., Fallaize, R., O’Donovan, C.B., Woolhead, C., Forster, H., Walsh, M.C., Navas-Carretero, S., SanCristobal, R., Tsirigoti, L., Lambrinou, C.P., Mavrogianni, C., Moschonis, G., Kolossa, S., Hallmann, J., Godlewska, M., Surwillo, A. and Traczyk, I. (2017). Effect of personalized nutrition on health-related behaviour change: evidence from the Food4Me European randomized controlled trial. International journal of epidemiology, [online] 46(2), pp.578–588. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyw186. Da Silva, S., Gupta, R. and Monzani, D. (2023). Editorial: Highlights in Psychology: Cognitive bias. Frontiers in Psychology, [online] 14(1242809). doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1242809. Fisberg, M., Gioia, N. and Maximino, P. (2023). Transgenerational transmission of eating habits. Jornal de Pediatria, 100.doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jped.2023.11.007. Morris, L.S., Grehl, M.M., Rutter, S.B., Mehta, M. and Westwater, M.L. (2022). On What Motivates us: a Detailed Review of Intrinsic v. Extrinsic Motivation. Psychological Medicine, 52(10), pp.1–16. Wood, W., Quinn, J. and Kashy, D. (2002). Habits in Everyday Life: Thought, Emotion, and Action. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, [online] 83(6). doi:https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.83.6.1281. Shivani Kachwaha, Kim, S.S., Das, J.K., Rasheed, S., Gavaravarapu, S.M., Pooja Pandey Rana and Menon, P. (2024). Behavior Change Interventions to Address Unhealthy Food Consumption: A Scoping Review. Current Developments in Nutrition, 8(3),pp.102104–102104. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102104.

Nutritional Needs of Breastfeeding Mothers Written by nutrition student Millie Rose Introduction WHO and UNICEF recommend that children initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life, meaning no other foods or liquids, including water. From the age of 6 months, children should begin eating safe and adequate complementary foods, whilst continuing to breastfeed for up to 2 years of age or beyond. Breastmilk provides all the energy and nutrients that an infant needs for the first few months of life. It is safe, clean and provides antibodies, which help to protect infants from common childhood illnesses (WHO, 2025) and growth factors, which allow your baby to grow and develop healthily (Ballard and Morrow, 2014). For breastfeeding month, it is time to recognise breastfeeding as a powerful foundation for long-term health, development, and equity. This blog will delve into the nutritional needs of breastfeeding mothers, how diet affects nutrients in breastmilk, breastfeeding myths, and a sample meal plan for breastfeeding mothers. Nutritional Needs of Breastfeeding Mothers What goes into your milk? As a breastfeeding mother, your nutritional status, supplements, and medication you take may affect the quality of your milk, as well as the volume you produce. This is why it is vital you must keep a nutritious diet that supports you and your baby. If you take any supplements or medication, you should consult a lactation consultant or doctor to check they are safe to breastfeed with. It is also important to note that you and your baby may not need supplements, as your diet is usually sufficient. Hydration The initial milk to come through is called colostrum, a thick, yellow liquid. It appears like this because it is highly concentrated with all the nutrients your baby will need (Cleveland Clinic, 2023). Infants should consume 150-200ml per kg of body weight per day until 6 months old (NHS, 2021). This means as the baby’s weight increases and the volume you are feeding to your baby increases, your hydration requirements will increase too. You may need to have an extra drink of water while you are breastfeeding. See Nutrition and Hydration Week Blog for some simple tips on how to increase your fluid intake. Nutrition While you are breastfeeding, you do not need to follow a specific diet, however it is recommended to eat a variety of foods to make up a healthy diet. Eating a wide variety of foods including carbohydrates, protein, fats, fibre, fruit and vegetables ensures diversity of nutrients, feeds your gut microbiome and gives you enough energy to sustain motherhood. Try to eat the rainbow, adding different vegetables, fruits, legumes (such as beans, chickpeas, lentils), grains (such as rice, wheat, oats, quinoa, rye), nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices to your meals (NHS, 2020) In the UK, it is difficult to get enough Vitamin D from your diet alone. If you are breastfeeding, it is advised you take a 10mcg Vitamin D supplement in the winter months; October to March when sun exposure is limited. Exclusively breastfed babies and babies who receive less than 500ml of formula per day are advised to take 8.5-10mcg vitamin D every day, until they are 1 years of age. Children over the age of 1 year and adults are advised to take 10mcg vitamin D daily (NHS, 2025). Iron – Breastmilk contains only a small amount of iron, so your baby will rely on stores passed through the placenta before birth. If there is a chance you were iron deficient during your pregnancy, which may mean your babies iron stores are low, you should consider taking an iron supplement while breastfeeding, as well as consulting a doctor to check your baby for an iron deficiency. Calcium – There is a higher need for calcium when breastfeeding. This is because of the demand for calcium in breast milk which supports the infants growth and development. A supplement is not usually necessary, but you may wish to consider adding more calcium into your diet (NHS, 2020). Include foods such as dairy, fish with bones such as sardines, tofu, green leafy vegetables such as broccoli or kale, nuts and seeds. Considerations while breastfeeding Allergens If any sensitivities are found in your baby, these should be eliminated from your diet, as there may be traces in your milk. However, if you do not notice any sensitivities, you should continue to include allergens in your diet, including cow’s milk, eggs, and nuts (NHS, 2020). Alcohol It is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while you breastfeed your baby. However, if you do drink alcohol, it is recommended to avoid feeding your baby breastmilk for at least 2 hours and throw away milk produced during this time (NHS, 2022). Caffeine It is recommended that you do not exceed 1 caffeine drink or 300mg per day, while breastfeeding. This may include coffee, tea, fizzy drinks, energy drinks and chocolate (NHS, 2025). An alternative could include 150ml of fruit juice, decaffeinated drinks, or sparkling water. Myths Current advice is to include allergens in your diet unless you or your baby are allergic to them. There is not sufficient evidence to show eating allergens causes allergies in your baby (Lodge et al, 2015). Signs of a baby having an allergic reaction include eczema, hives, vomiting, diarrhoea, and respiratory issues. If your baby shows signs of a mild reaction, including rashes, remove the trigger, if known from your diet, and observe in case of worsening symptoms. If your baby shows signs of a serious reaction, including difficulty breathing, a swollen face and becoming limp, call 999 and state anaphylaxis (NHS, 2024). 2) Breastmilk does not have enough nutrients Breastmilk contains energy and all the nutrients needed for the first 6 months of life (WHO, 2025). Your health visitor should identify that your baby is putting on enough weight and look out for signs of deficiencies. 3) “There is no difference between breast milk and formula” Formula mimics breast milk, however, it

Changes in cravings, hunger and diet during the menstrual cycle Introduction Many women experience changes in appetite and cravings at different parts of their cycle, but why is this? This blog will explore hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and their impact on your appetite, cravings and dietary intake, and how this change is based on where you are in your menstrual cycle. Read until the end for some tips to improve your dietary habits during your cycle. What phases are there in the menstrual cycle? (Image, Clue, 2019) The menstrual cycle starts on the first day of your period and ends the day before your next period begins. There are different phases in the menstrual cycle; follicular phase (days 1-14) and luteal phase (days 14-28). Our hormone levels fluctuate throughout our cycle therefore potentially having an effect on our diet, mood, digestion, libido, skin, headaches etc. Please note: a cycle from 21-35 days is considered normal 1) Menstrual phase – also known as your period At the end of your cycle and at the start of menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels drop. During this phase you may experience symptoms such as abdominal muscle cramping, mood swings, and tiredness. Changes to cravings, hunger and diet in the menstrual phase: Cravings: You may experience an increase in cravings for sugary or fatty foods. This is because when estrogen drops, serotonin also drops, which may increase the want for comfort foods, to raise serotonin temporarily (Dye and Blundell, 1997). Hunger: Your hunger may decrease slightly. This is because progesterone and estrogen have lowered appetite as the body is more sensitive to leptin, the hormone which makes you feel full (Hirschberg, 2012). Diet: See recipes here 2) Follicular phase – the first day of your period to ovulation, it overlaps with the menstrual phase During this phase, there is a surge in estrogen, to prepare the body for a potential pregnancy. The symptoms will overlap with the menstrual phase and should reduce when the menstruation finishes, leaving you with more energy and improved mood. Changes to cravings, hunger and diet in the follicular phase Cravings and Hunger: After menstruation, cravings and hunger also reduce due to rising and lowering estrogen levels and low progesterone levels (Hirschberg, 2012). Additionally, leptin sensitivity increases, reducing hunger; this also increases serotonin, reducing cravings and emotional eating (Dye and Blundell, 1997) (Klump et al., 2014). Diet: Continue eating a varied and balanced diet including: 3) Ovulation phase – the period of your cycle where you are fertile During this phase, there is a rise in leuitenising hormone (LH), triggering an egg to be released and a slightly raised temperature. After ovulation, estrogen drops. Some women experience symptoms, such as mild abdominal cramping and mood changes. Changes to cravings, hunger and diet in the ovulation phase Cravings and Hunger: When estrogen is at its highest, before ovulation, leptin sensitivity is enhanced, so there is less hunger, fewer cravings for sugary or fatty foods, so better food choices are likely. However, after ovulation, the opposite happens as estrogen falls, leading to more hunger and cravings (Dye and Blundell, 1997) (Klump et al., 2014). Diet: Intake at the start of the ovulation phase may be lower than the end of the ovulation phase, depending on when the egg is released during the phase. 4) Luteal phase During this phase, progesterone and estrogen increase again, if pregnancy does not occur, these fall again. Additionally, you may experience pre-menstrual symptoms (PMS), which causes symptoms such as bloating, mood changes, changes in food cravings and you may have trouble sleeping. This is caused by the fall in hormones (Watson, 2018). Changes to cravings, hunger and diet in the luteal phase Cravings and hunger: As progesterone and estrogen increase, hunger and cravings increase (Dye and Blundell, 1997). Progesterone is highest before our period. Diet: Due to higher cravings and hunger you are more likely to increase your food intake. This was shown in a study, where they found that women consume 180 kcal more during their luteal phase, in comparison to their follicular phase (Rogan and Black, 2022) Did you know? It is thought that over 90% of women experience at least one premenstrual symptom, and around 48% of people experience PMS (NICE, 2024). This is why it is vital that we understand the impact these symptoms have on our diet and learn ways to work with it, not against it! There is a higher desire for caloric foods, foods high in fats, sugar and salt during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase. However, the total intake of calories, macro and micronutrients didn’t fluctuate (Souza et al., 2018). Current studies do not consider psychological factors enough. You may notice changes to your cravings, hunger and diet due to symptoms, in addition to hormonal changes. For example, abdominal cramping during your period may suppress your appetite or women who experience PMS may experience increased consumption of comfort foods when they experience mood changes (emotional eating). Does this change throughout my life? From when you first start your periods, also known as the menarche, to when your periods stop, also known as the menopause, your periods may change, and so may your cravings, hunger and diet. This is due to changing hormones during your fertile years heading towards perimenopause. However, your cycles may also change when you are postpartum or breastfeeding! Did you know? Around ovulation, women are more likely to choose new food options. Women, earlier or later in their cycle, are less likely to explore new foods and stick with known options or comfort foods (Nijboer et al., 2024). This has also been found in animals and is linked to changes in higher estrogen levels around ovulation. As more research is carried out, we will gain more evidence to explain why this is happening! What can you do? You can track what phase of your menstrual cycle you are in by using a tracking app, tracking your temperature or manually recording using

Gestational Diabetes Written by nutrition student Millie Rose Introduction Diabetes week is here bringing awareness to the chronic health condition. There are 3 types of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational. However, this blog will focus on gestational diabetes and how diet can help manage your blood sugar levels. Read until the end for recipes for women with Gestational Diabetes. Why is this relevant? Gestational Diabetes affects 1 in 20 pregnancies in the UK (Diabetes, 2023). Gestational diabetes can make it difficult to manage blood sugar levels, which may lead to symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, a dry mouth, and tiredness (NHS, 2022). It is important that you learn to manage your blood sugar levels if you have gestational diabetes, for the health of you and your baby. What is gestational diabetes? Gestational diabetes is when blood sugar levels are high during pregnancy. It occurs because the body cannot produce enough insulin to reduce blood sugar levels after eating, leading to spikes in blood sugar that don’t settle. Blood sugar levels usually level out after birth. Who is more likely to get gestational diabetes? (NHS, 2022) Why? These risk factors have a correlation with insulin resistance. A healthy individual will produce insulin when blood sugar rises after eating. The insulin will be responded to, and the blood sugar levels will reduce to a pre-eating level. Insulin resistance is where insulin is produced when blood sugar rises after eating. However, the insulin is not responded to, and the blood sugar levels remain high. Often in gestational diabetes, insulin is produced in response to increasing blood sugar levels; however, it is not responded to, so blood sugar levels remain high. This can be due to placental hormones making insulin less efficient. How is gestational diabetes diagnosed? If you have one or more risk factors for Gestational Diabetes (see list above), you will be screened for Gestational Diabetes earlier in your pregnancy. This is done by an oral glucose test, where a blood test is taken in a fasted state and 2 hours after a glucose drink. However, some women may have high blood sugar levels, which are indicated by symptoms including increased thirst, increased urination, a dry mouth, tiredness or blurred eyesight, which may also prompt earlier testing (NHS, 2022). Gestational Diabetes may also be detected later in your pregnancy. What happens after diagnosis, during pregnancy? You will be given a blood sugar testing kit to measure your blood sugar levels throughout the day, especially after eating. This requires a small finger prick for a drop of blood, allowing you to get a blood sugar reading. Controlling blood sugar levels is vital to reduce the effects of Gestational Diabetes, meaning diet is an important factor to monitor. Continue reading to learn how to manage your blood glucose through your diet. Additionally, being more active can help reduce blood sugar levels. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga may be more suitable options during your pregnancy. However, in severe cases insulin injections may be necessary to reduce blood glucose. Additionally, your midwife will talk to you about monitoring what is needed throughout pregnancy and birth. It is recommended to give birth before 41 weeks with gestational diabetes to reduce the risk of complications to you and your baby, so an induction or caesarean section may be considered. (NHS, 2022) What can I do? 1. Swap to wholegrain options How to apply this: 2. Reduce refined sugar How to apply this: 3. Check portion sizes How to apply this: 4. Choose and plan healthier snacks How to apply this: 5. Opt for lower Glycaemic Index foods How to apply this: (Diabetes UK) (Diabetes UK, 2023) Exemplar Meal Guide Breakfast: Overnight oats with figs and honey Lunch: Tahini goddess lunch bowl Dinner: Chorizo and bean stew Snack option 1: Crunchy chocolate quinoa bites Snack option 2: Creamy smooth hummus with cucumber or carrot sticks Snack option 3: Dark chocolate dipped strawberries/fruit What is the impact of Gestational Diabetes after birth? Having Gestational Diabetes during your pregnancy increases the risk of having Type 2 Diabetes, which is lifelong. Women who have had gestational diabetes have their blood sugar levels tested every year to detect whether they are pre-diabetic or diabetic. It is especially important that women who have had gestational diabetes maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly to prevent development of type 2 diabetes after pregnancy. Continuing the habits in the ‘What Can I do?’ section after birth will also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, in which mothers who have had Gestational Diabetes are at a greater risk of developing. References: Buchanan, T.A., Xiang, A.H., & Page, K.A. (2019). Gestational diabetes mellitus. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 5, Article 47. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41572-019-0098-8 Diabetes UK. Glycaemic Index and Diabetes. [online] Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/living-with-diabetes/eating/carbohydrates-and-diabetes/glycaemic-index-and-diabetes Diabetes UK (2023). Causes of Gestational Diabetes. [online] Diabetes UK. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/about-diabetes/gestational-diabetes/causes. Diabetes UK (2023). What can I eat with Gestational Diabetes? [online] Diabetes UK. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/living-with-diabetes/eating/gestational-diabetes Hillier, T.A., Pedula, K.L., Ogasawara, K.K., et al. (2021). A Pragmatic, Randomized Clinical Trial of Gestational Diabetes Screening. New England Journal of Medicine, 384(10), 895–904. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2026028. NHS (2022). Gestational Diabetes. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gestational-diabetes/. Simmons, D., Immanuel, J., Hague, W.M., et al. (2023). Treatment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Diagnosed Early in Pregnancy. New England Journal of Medicine, 388(22), 2132–2144. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2214956. Zhang, C., Rawal, S., & Chong, Y.S. (2016). Risk factors for gestational diabetes: is prevention possible? Diabetologia, 59(7), 1385–1390. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00125-016-3979-3 Zhu, Y., & Zhang, C. (2016). Prevalence of Gestational Diabetes and Risk of Progression to Type 2 Diabetes: a Global Perspective. Current Diabetes Reports, 16(7), 7. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-015-0699-x

Women’s Health Week Written by student Millie Rose Introduction It’s Women’s Health week this week, where we are encouraged to take a moment to understand and look after our health at every stage of life. Women’s health has previously been seen as taboo and has often led to women feeling alone. However, with recent research estimating “up to one in three women live with heavy menstrual bleeding” and a significant number of women have gynecological issues including PCOS, endometriosis and adenomyosis (Women and Equalities Committee, 2024), it is more important than ever that women recognise when something is not right with their body and how to approach it. This blog will investigate what women’s health should look like and what to look out for, including symptoms of common conditions that affect women. Nutrition can help reduce the impact of symptoms, but sometimes medical intervention is still needed. What does good women’s health look like? In order to recognise when something is not right with your body as a woman, it is vital to know – What does good women’s health look like? And what should I look out for? And this varies for every individual Women’s health involves physical, mental and emotional health. Specific considerations that should be taken when looking into women’s health and nutrition include: Reproductive health: What to look out for in reproductive health: Menopause: What to look out for in menopause: (NHS, 2022) Bone health: What to look out for in bone health: Common concerns and nutrition Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (Cleveland Clinic, 2023) Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition affecting 1 in 10 women’s ovaries in the UK. It causes irregular periods and sometimes there is no ovulation. It also increases androgens, which leads to higher levels of testosterone, which may cause excess facial or body hair. Additionally, the condition may cause polycystic ovaries, meaning ovaries become bigger and may have fluid-filled sacs around eggs. These cysts can make it difficult for the ovaries to release an egg, meaning ovulation does not take place. However, cysts are not necessary for a diagnosis of PCOS. Symptoms of PCOS: Nutritional considerations: (NHS, 2022) Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Endometriosis is a condition, affecting 1 in 10 women, where “cells similar to those in the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body”, commonly around the womb, affecting organs around the womb, such as the bladder, bowel and intestines, as well as fallopian tubes and ovaries. To read more about Endometriosis and nutrition click here. (NHS, 2024) (Health direct Australia, 2019) Adenomyosis is a condition where “the lining of the womb starts growing into the muscle in the wall of the womb”. (Mayo Clinic, 2018) Symptoms of adenomyosis: (NHS, 2023) Nutritional considerations: Multiple studies have found dietary interventions have a positive effect on endometriosis (Nirgianakis et al., 2021). Both diseases cause inflammation, which worsens symptoms. Sometimes this inflammation can be caused or worsened by certain foods. An elimination diet, such as a gluten-free diet, Mediterranean diet and anti-inflammatory diet can help you to determine foods that worsen your symptoms. It is recommended to seek support from a health professional so that you don’t cut out certain nutrients or food groups and worsen your symptoms. Gluten-free diet: Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye and often in baked goods. Alternatives include: Mediterranean diet: Includes a diet rich in: Reduces or limits in diet: (Cleveland Clinic, 2022) Anti-inflammatory diet: Anti-inflammatory foods: Inflammatory foods: (BHF, 2025) It is important to note that endometriosis does not have a cure and adenomyosis can only be cured by hysterectomy. Some women will need medical intervention; however, dietary interventions can be used alone or in combination with medication to help improve symptoms. Additionally, dietary interventions may not work for some individuals. Conclusion Women’s health should not be taboo, and you have a right to seek help to improve your health. With a good understanding of what your health should look like, as a woman, you should be able to identify when there may be a need to see a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nutritionist, to help you improve your understanding of what may be causing it and to improve your symptoms. References British Heart Foundation (2025). Anti-inflammatory diet. [online] British Heart Foundation. Available at: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/anti-inflammatory-diet#fightinflammation [Accessed 27 Apr. 2025]. Cleveland Clinic (2022). Mediterranean Diet. [online] Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16037-mediterranean-diet. Cleveland Clinic (2023). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). [online] Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8316-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos. Health direct Australia (2019). Endometriosis. [online] Healthdirect.gov.au. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/endometriosis. Mayo Clinic (2018). Adenomyosis – Symptoms and causes. [online] Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adenomyosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369138. NHS (2017). Irregular periods. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/irregular-periods/. NHS (2019). Periods and Fertility in the Menstrual Cycle – Periods. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/fertility-in-the-menstrual-cycle/. NHS (2022). Symptoms – Menopause. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/symptoms/. NHS (2022). Osteoporosis. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoporosis/causes/. NHS (2022). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/. NHS (2023). Adenomyosis. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/adenomyosis/. NHS (2024). Endometriosis. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/endometriosis/. NHS (2024). Heavy periods. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heavy-periods/. Nirgianakis, K., Egger, K., Kalaitzopoulos, D.R., Lanz, S., Bally, L. and Mueller, M.D. (2021). Effectiveness of Dietary Interventions in the Treatment of Endometriosis: a Systematic Review. Reproductive Sciences, 29(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s43032-020-00418-w. Women and Equalities Committee (2024). Women’s reproductive health conditions. [online] Parliament.uk. Available at: https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5901/cmselect/cmwomeq/337/report.html

Nutrition during Pregnancy Written by Millie Rose Changes during pregnancy Pregnancy brings many changes to your body as well as symptoms, including constipation, nausea and indigestion (BDA, 2021). Pregnancy may bring worries about nutritional concerns, morning sickness, cravings and deficiencies. This blog will explore the symptoms, nutritional requirements, dietary advice, myths and how these link together. The blog will end with some key takeaway tips to allow you to have a well-balanced diet that will support you and your developing baby. Key nutrients during pregnancy Folic Acid Folic Acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects. It is recommended to take 400mcg once every day from planning pregnancy to week 12 (BDA, 2021). Folic acid is also found in green leafy vegetables, fortified breakfast cereals and fat spreads. Iron There is increased demand for iron during pregnancy. Usually this can be added to your diet. However, your midwife will offer blood tests to detect anemia. If found, supplements can be taken safely (NHS, 2024). An iron rich diet is important; foods such as green leafy vegetables, fortified foods and red meat can support this. Calcium Calcium is essential for bone development in an unborn baby. Calcium can be found in dairy, green leafy vegetables and fish. Vitamin D In the UK, it is recommended to take 10mcg of vitamin D daily, due to the lack of sunlight. This is essential for bone, teeth and muscle health. Additionally, vitamin D can be found in oily fish, such as salmon and mackerel, eggs and red meat. Vitamin D is also fortified into breakfast cereals, fat spreads and non-dairy milks, however, it is difficult to get enough vitamin D from the diet alone. Vitamin C Vitamin C is essential for absorption of iron and to protect cells, keeping them healthy. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits and vegetables such as broccoli (NHS, 2020) Zinc Zinc is vital for growth, development and immunity (WHO, 2021). Zinc is also high in red meat, dairy, nuts and seeds including pumpkin seeds. A maternal zinc supplement has been found to reduce preterm births (Chaffee and King, 2012). Always check with a health professional before taking a supplement. Riboflavin Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is vital for a healthy birth weight and length, and prevention of birth defects (NIH, 2022). Riboflavin is high in dairy, eggs, meat and nuts. Iodine Iodine is vital for the production of maternal and fetal hormones to regulate the development of an unborn baby’s brain and nervous system. The requirement for iodine increases during pregnancy (Darnton-Hill, 2017). Iodine can be found in dairy products, eggs, fish, cereals and grains (NHS, 2020). Choline Choline is a nutrient important for the brain and nervous system, to regulate memory, mood and muscle control (NIH, 2017). It is uncommon for pregnant women to reach the recommended intake (Jaiswal et al., 2023). Choline can be found in beef, egg yolks, fish, mushrooms and legumes such as beans and peanuts (The Nutrition Source, 2020). Omega-3 Omega-3 is vital for the development of the fetal brain and retina. Fish is high in omega-3; however, limit oily fish to 2 portions a week due to potential high levels of pollutants affecting a baby’s nervous system (Coletta, Bell and Roman, 2024). Other foods such as nuts, seeds and plant oils are high in omega-3, without the concern for high mercury (NIH, 2022). Foods to avoid during pregnancy Avoid raw foods Reduce high mercury fish Caffeine Alcohol How can I manage my symptoms through nutrition? Morning sickness Heartburn or indigestion Constipation Gestational diabetes Am I eating for two? Put simply, no. Energy requirements only increase by 200kcal in the 3rd trimester, meaning energy requirements stay the same in the 1st and 2nd trimester To ensure you stay full and don’t succumb to sugary cravings: 5 take away tips If you’d like to get some support from a prenatal Nutritionist, you can book a free 15-minute consultation here Follow @nutritiondunneright for more actionable tips! References BDA (2021). Pregnancy and diet. [online] www.bda.uk.com. Available at: https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/pregnancy-diet.html. Chaffee, B.W. and King, J.C. (2012). Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Pregnancy and Infant Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology, 26(1), pp.118–137. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3016.2012.01289.x. Coletta, J.M., Bell, S.J. and Roman, A.S. (2024). Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Pregnancy. Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology, [online] 3(4), p.163. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3046737/. Darnton-Hill, I. (2017). Iodine in pregnancy and lactation. [online] www.who.int. Available at: https://www.who.int/tools/elena/bbc/iodine-pregnancy. Diabetes UK (2017). What can I eat with gestational diabetes? [online] Diabetes UK. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/living-with-diabetes/eating/gestational-diabetes. Jaiswal, A., Dewani, D., Reddy, L.S. and Patel, A. (2023). Choline Supplementation in Pregnancy: Current Evidence and Implications. Cureus, [online] 15(11), p.e48538. doi:https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.48538. NHS Choices (2020). Iodine – Vitamins and Minerals. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/iodine/. NHS (2020). Foods to avoid in pregnancy. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/. NHS (2020). Vitamins, minerals and supplements in pregnancy. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition/. NHS (2022). Gestational Diabetes. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gestational-diabetes/. NHS. (2024). Iron intake in pregnancy and beyond – Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. [online] Available at: https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/patients/resources/iron-intake-in-pregnancy-and-beyond/. NIH (2017). Office of Dietary Supplements – Choline. [online] Nih.gov. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Choline-Consumer/. NIH (2022). Office of Dietary Supplements – Omega-3 Fatty Acids. [online] Nih.gov. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-Consumer/. NIH (2022). Riboflavin. [online] Nih.gov. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Riboflavin-HealthProfessional/. The Nutrition Source. (2020). Choline. [online] Available at: https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/choline/. WHO (2021). Nutritional interventions update: zinc supplements during pregnancy. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240030466.

Nutrition and Hydration Week 17th – 23rd March Why is it important to be hydrated and what can we do to increase our intake of fluid? Written by Millie Rose Introduction This year Nutrition and Hydration week is from the 17th to the 23rd of March. During this week, we are encouraged to “reinforce, focus and energise”, focusing attention on the importance of food and drink to optimise health and well-being, with a primary focus on the importance of hydration (N & H week, 2025). Hydration is essential to regulate body temperature, keep joints healthy, prevent infection, transport nutrients and organ functioning (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2017). This blog outlines why we need to be hydrated and how much your body needs to perform optimally. Read until the end for recommendations to increase your hydration day-to-day! Why is hydration so important for our health? Your body loses water daily through breathing, sweating, urinating and bowel movements. However, water loss could be increased by exercise, hot or humid weather, illness, pregnancy or breastfeeding (Mayo Clinic, 2022). It is important these losses are replenished, as hydration is essential for: (Healthline, 2018) Without sufficient hydration, symptoms of dehydration will occur, including: (NHS, 2022) The NHS use this scale to help determine whether you are dehydrated: (NHS, 2023) Dehydration can lead to health complications, such as: (NHS, 2023) What can you do? In line with the Eatwell Guide, adults require 6-8 glasses of fluid a day, including low-fat milk, sugar-free drinks, tea and coffee, however, water is preferable (NHS, 2023) (BDA, 2022) Foods containing water can also contribute towards hydration. Most fruit and vegetables contain a large amount of water, but also include vitamins and minerals, which will complement hydration and meet nutritional needs. Foods to promote hydration include: Head to my Instagram for hydrating and nutritious recipes Who may need different amounts? (BDA, 2020) 5 tips to promote better hydration habits! Conclusion To summarise, hydration is essential for health and well-being. Ensure you are drinking an adequate amount of fluid: 6-8 glasses for an adult daily. If you are regularly dehydrated, start by making small changes, such as drinking another glass of water with each meal or including more snacks that provide hydration. Additionally, journaling your symptoms and intake of fluids and foods providing hydration may help you to track your progress. If you struggle with incorporating more fluids into your day, a nutritionist may be able to help you with this. “reinforce, focus and energise” References ‌British Dietetic Association (2020). Fluid (water and drinks). [online] www.bda.uk.com. Available at: https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/fluid-water-drinks.html. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2017). The importance of hydration | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. [online] Available at: https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/the-importance-of-hydration/. Healthline. (2018). 16 Reasons Why Water Is Important to Human Health. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/why-is-water-important#takeaway. ‌Mayo Clinic (2022). Water: How much should you drink every day? [online] Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256. ‌N&H Week (2025) | Nutrition and Hydration Week. [online] Available at: https://nutritionandhydrationweek.co.uk/. NHS (2022). Dehydration. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dehydration/. BDA (2022). Hydration in older adults. [online] www.bda.uk.com. Available at: https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/hydration-in-older-adults.html. NHS (2023). Hydration. [online] NHS inform. Available at: https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/hydration/. NHS (2023). Water, Drinks and Your Health. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/water-drinks-nutrition/.