Dr. Natacha Montpellier ND
2-2740 Bur Oak Avenue L6B 1K5 Markham, ON, Canada

Vitamin B2, also known as Riboflavin plays an important role in estrogen metabolism. Sources rich in vitamin B2 include milk & milk products, eggs, meat, legumes, green leafy vegetables, fruits and cereal grains. The absorption of vitamin B2 is inhibited by copper, zinc, iron, manganese and alcohol. Consequently, those who drink large quantities of alcohol are at risk for vitamin B2 deficiency, among others. ... Certain medications like oral contraceptives, anticonvulsants and chlorpromazine (an antipsychotic medication) can also contribute to deficiencies. Other individuals at risk for vitamin B2 deficiency include those with malabsorption conditions like Crohn's or ulcerative colitis; the elderly; strict vegans; diabetics; highly active people or people with hyperthyroidism. Like vitamin B1, vitamin B2 is not stored in large quantities in tissues thus a continuous supply is necessary, especially during pregnancy when there is an increased demand for nutrients. It has been postulated that the mutagenic effect of thalidomide, a medication used in the 1950s to help pregnant women with morning sickness, was due to its interference with riboflavin absorption. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife #prentalmultivitamin

Let’s continue our breakdown of the vital micronutrients found in prenatal multivitamins. Vitamin B1 aka Thiamin is widely distributed in meat, eggs, legumes, whole grains and enriched foods. It’s important to try to consume whole grains as much as possible since they contain all of the original nutrients. During the milling process of the grains, these nutrients are lost. As a result, the enrichment of flour has been mandatory in Canada since 1976. ... However, processed/enriched grains are still deficient in fibre, vitamin B6, vitamin E, magnesium, zinc and chromium. Now just because a vitamin is present in food, it does not mean we will be able to absorb and use it. Caffeine, alcohol, chlorine, sulfates (food additive in wine and dried fruit) and thiaminases (enzymes) present in raw fish can all reduce the absorption of vitamin B1. Thiamin is not stored in large quantities in tissues thus a continuous supply is necessary, especially during pregnancy when there is an increased demand for nutrients. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife #prentalmultivitamin

We’ve talked about the benefits of taking prenatal multivitamins as a whole. Now let’s break down the benefits associated with each vitamin, starting with vitamin A! There is some conflicting information when it comes to the use of vitamin A during pregnancy. It has been known for a long time that excessive supplementation with vitamin A during pregnancy is teratogenic, meaning harmful to the baby. ...Continue reading

Here is another study showing the benefits of taking a multimicronutrient prenatal over iron-folic acid supplementation only. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife #prentalmultivitamin

In 2015, Cochrane published a review that found that birth weight was significantly higher among infants whose mothers took a prenatal multivitamin containing folic acid and iron compared to those whose mothers only took iron and folic acid. You might be wondering why optimal birth weight is so important. Well, there is emerging evidence indicating that low birth weight may predispose children to develop cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome in adult...hood. Studies and reviews like these show just how important a multi-micronutrient prenatal supplement is for baby's immediate and long term health. Talk to your naturopathic doctor about which prenatal multivitamin would be best for you and your baby. Stayed tuned for more information on the benefits and what to look for when selecting a prenatal multivitamin. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife #prentalmultivitamin

What causes iron-deficiency anemia? There are many medical conditions that can contribute to blood loss and low iron like celiac disease, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’ disease. Surgeries in general will result in some blood loss, however, gastric bypass surgeries and other bowel surgeries where parts of the intestines are removed can lead to absorption issues. ... The most common causes of iron-deficiency that I encounter in practice are menstruation, pregnancy and delivery. Individuals who experience heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding are at a higher risk than those with light, short or infrequent periods. Since menstruation typically occurs on a monthly basis it can be difficult to keep iron levels within optimal ranges. Pregnancy can also contribute to iron deficiency. Like many other vitamins and minerals, there is increased demand for iron during pregnancy, and it can be very difficult to increase those levels while pregnant. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that giving birth whether vaginally or via c-section can lead to iron-deficiency due to blood loss. Starting your period soon after giving birth can worsen the deficiency caused by the delivery which can impede postpartum recovery and can contribute to postpartum depression. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife

Did you know that iron-deficiency anemia can negatively impact your thyroid hormone? The inverse is also true, hypo- or hyper-thyroidism can lead to anemia. Anemia is a frequent, although often underestimated, clinical condition accompanying thyroid diseases. Despite the fact that anemia and thyroid dysfunction often occur simultaneously, the causative relationship between the disorders remains ambiguous. It's just amazing how interconnected all of the different systems i...n our bodies are. Thyroid disease and/or iron-deficiency anemia can negatively impact a person or couple’s ability to conceive. If you have been struggling with your fertility, thyroid disease and/or iron-deficiency anemia, it might be worthwhile asking your medical doctor or naturopathic doctor to check your ferritin and/or thyroid hormone levels (TSH, fT3 & fT4). PMID: 28400547 #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife

Not only can iron deficiency anemia adversely impact mom’s health (increased risk of preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage etc) but if left untreated it can also negatively impact baby’s health. Low birth weight is one possible outcome associated with iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. However, it does not stop there. There is emerging evidence indicating that low birth weight may predispose children to develop cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndr...ome in adulthood. The best way to prevent iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy is to have your ferritin checked BEFORE you become pregnant or in early pregnancy. Like many other vitamins and minerals, there is increased demand for iron during pregnancy, and it can be very difficult to increase those levels while pregnant (but not impossible). Ask your family doctor or naturopathic doctor to check your ferritin levels and to do a complete blood count (CBC) as part of your preconception plan. Supplemental iron is the best way to increase low ferritin, however, they are not without their adverse effects. It is important to consult with your healthcare team before starting an iron supplement as it can be harmful. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife

Preconception care involves strengthening your relationship with your partner. Deciding to become parents can be extremely exciting for a couple. Unfortunately, for some this journey can become quite stressful. New issues may emerge, and old issues may be exacerbated. It is never too early or too late to work on and solidify your relationship with each other.... There are many great couple’s therapists as well as many online resources. I highly recommend following The Gottman Institute on Instagram. They also have a podcast called Small Things Often and you can subscribe to their email list called the Marriage Minute. If you like reading books I recommend: And Baby Makes Three: The Six-Step Plan for Preserving Marital Intimacy and Rekindling Romance After Baby Arrives. Despite being written from the post-pregnancy perspective, the tools discussed can be used regardless of where you are in your journey. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #prenatal #ttctribe #doula #relationshipgoals #couple #relationships #couplegoals

Over the summer and fall, I’ve been putting a lot of creative energy into my passion project - handcrafting soaps. After not making soap for over 3 years I was excited and apprehensive about starting up again. Honestly, my first batches did not turn out at all as I had imagined (they were ugly) but I was determined to save these soaps and so I did. I had so much fun making these soaps, especially once the process became familiar again. ... In the end, I made 10 varieties of soap and easily over 100 bars of soap! I also tried new design techniques like soap frosting & piping, drops swirls, and imbeds. I also discovered just how much I love watching soap making videos lol. There is so much to learn. Before I could even make my first batch of soap I asked my father to help me make custom wooden and silicone molds AND a soap cutter. All three of these projects required a lot of attention to detail and they all turn out better than imagined. I launched my first soap sale in November to my family and friends. Their support and feedback were rewarding and heartwarming. I am so grateful for these wonderful people. I still have a few bars of soap ($5-$7) available for curbside pick-up in Markham. If you are interested you can DM me. #naturalsoapbar #naturalsoap #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak

Preconception care involves the assessment and optimization of your hormonal health before you start trying to conceive. In women, estrogen drives the development of the eggs (follicles) and it plays an important role in thickening the lining of the uterus (endometrium). Women who struggle with low estrogen may experience issues with their ovulation and/or with the thickening of their uterine lining which would impact the ability of the embryo to implant into the uterus. ... Progesterone comes from the words pro (meaning in favour of) and gestation (pregnancy!). Basically, progesterone maintains the pregnancy. Women with low progesterone often experience pregnancy loss (known or unknown) during the first trimester. The thyroid also plays an especially important role in our fertility. Hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone) is the most common type of thyroid disorder that I encounter in my patients. Hashimoto’s disease, which is an autoimmune condition of the thyroid, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in North America. Hashimoto’s disease often goes either undiagnosed and/or untreated. Both hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease can DIRECTLY impact fertility. Elevated thyroid antibodies can reduce a woman’s ovarian reserve (how many eggs they have) and lead to issues with implantation. I believe in the benefits of assessing hormones from the very start especially, in those who: Struggle with their menstrual cycle (heavy periods, no periods, cramping, PMS) or Have a personal and/or family history of hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, or other autoimmune disorders. Optimizing hormones from the start can help couples conceive naturally sooner. #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #preconception #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilityawareness #fertilitysupport #ttc #pregnancy #infertility #naturalfertility #ttcjourney #ttccommunity #ivf #conception #pcos #preconceptioncare #tryingtoconceive #ttcsupport #ivfjourney #womenshealth #preconceptionhealth #fertilitydiet #sperm #health #prenatal #ttctribe #infertilitysucks #doula #midwife

Last week I won a New Chapter products basket from Health Planet Markham. So fun to win something so practical! #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #markham #buroak #healthyplanetmarkham #healthyplanet

Are you thinking of getting pregnant? Not sure if preconception care is the right thing for you? Book a free discovery call today (or anytime you wish) and find out what naturopathic medicine and patient-centred care can do for you. Open to Ontario residents only. ... #naturalhealthcare #nauturalmedicines #nauturalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #integratedhealthcare #integratedhealth #virtualhealthcare #virtualhealthconsult #motherhood #postnatal #poastpartum #markham #postpartumrecovery #postpartumhealth #postpartumdepression #postpartumanxiety #ppd #ppa #postnatal #fourthtrimester #momlife #momtruth #pregnant #pregnancy #thirdtrimester #newborn #naturopathicdoctor #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #evidencebasedbirth #postivebirth #childbirth #doula #midwife #womenshealth #womenhealth #womenshormonalhealth #fertility #infertility #ttc #infertilityawareness #PCOS #IVF #fertilitysupport #unexplainedinfertility #pregnancyloss #miscarriage #fertilityjourney #iui #infertilitywarrior #endometriosis #tryingtoconceive #maleinfertility

The Courage to be Disliked by Ichior Kishimi and Fumitake Koga is the latest book selection in my small book club. Honestly, I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy or take anything from this book but as it turns out it was a really great read! The book follows 5 conversations that take place between a philosopher and troubled youth. Within their conversations, they discuss the principles of Adlerian psychology. ... I really enjoyed the dialogue between these two fictional characters. The philosopher is patient and calm despite the youth’s continuous attempts of trying to prove him wrong and calling him a hypocrite. I suppose that many of us would have a similar reaction as the youth if we were told that our misery is of our own making. I found the tenets of Adlerian psychology simultaneously controversial and empowering. Our misery might be of our own making but Adlerian psychology also preaches that we can change and move away from our misery if we have the courage to do so. #books #bookstagram #book #booklover #reading #bookworm #bookstagrammer #bookish #read #booknerd #bookaddict #bibliophile #booksofinstagram #instabook #love #bookaholic #bookshelf #booksbooksbooks #reader #readersofinstagram #booklove #instabooks #literature #author

We got our anti-fatigue mats this week for our new home-office standing desk and what a difference it makes! #workfromhome #homeoffice #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #telemedicine #naturalmedicine