What To Eat During The Follicular Phase
- By GHBY Team
- 13 Jul 2023
- Verified by Rama Manikumar
Key highlights or summary
- The follicular phase falls at the end of a menstrual cycle, and at the start, or right after menstruation.
- It’s crucial to eat foods that facilitate egg development and do not dampen your fluctuating spirits.
- Follicular phase meals must avoid processed foods and packaged items while including healthy alternatives in their place to indulge cravings.
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Frequently asked questions
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The follicular phase is essentially that stage of the menstrual cycle where the ovarian follicles mature. This stage begins with your period, or the first day of menstruation, and ends until ovulation occurs.
It is an important time for the maturation and selection of the egg that will be released during ovulation. And through this, it sets the stage for potential fertilization and pregnancy.
Nutrition during the follicular phase plays a vital role in your menstrual cycle. Your body needs attention and care, most of which comes from the food you eat. This helps in hormone production, follicle development, and egg quality. Besides, the uterine lining that is formed also needs a well-nourished body. Your general health and reproductive health are also safeguarded by the kind of foods you consume.
Good foods to include during the follicular phase include green vegetables, a variety of nuts and seeds, foods rich in carbs, and legumes as these support follicle development. Besides, some experts also suggest that foods with a good deal of probiotics like kimchi and sauerkraut can also be consumed.
Food to avoid during the follicular phase includes excessively salty or processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol. As we’ve already mentioned above, some types of foods or items must be avoided at all costs to protect your delicate reproductive health.
Supplements may be beneficial during the follicular phase. Based on your dietician’s recommendation, you can consider including prenatal or high-quality multivitamins which can fill any potential nutrient gaps. In addition, supplements for omega-3 fatty acids like EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are supposed to be good for reproductive health. Vitamin D is another supplement you can take. Plus, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an antioxidant that supports energy production, and iron supplements can be included.
It goes without saying that none of these supplements should be taken without proper consultation, and cannot replace a good, whole, balanced meal. Be sure to plan accordingly.
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