PCOS, Herbs, Blood sugar control during pregnancy

I've recently purchased your book and I'm just loving every moment of it.

I feel as though I finally know what it takes to control my symptoms of PCOS and gradually eliminate it for life.

I've been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes two weeks ago and going through the list of plants and spices recommended to control the level of blood sugar, I was concerned with bitter melon, fenugreek and cinnamon.

I've been married for 6 months and we will be trying for a child soon.

I've read and heard that taking either of those plants and spices during pregnancy would result in a miscarriage.

Out of the given list, which ones would you recommend I take all through my pregnancy?

I would like to maintain a controlled blood sugar level throughout my pregnancy without having to stop any kind of herbal remedies or supplementation.

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Editor's comments: I'm glad you're getting some value from The Natural Diet Solution for PCOS and Infertility ebook.

There's not a whole lot of information regarding the safety of these herbs for pregnancy.

In one study, fenugreek was found to impair the development of fetuses in rabbits. However, it should be noted that 30% of their diet consisted of fenugreek. No human would consume that much.

In another study, mice and guinea pigs aborted their fetuses when given bitter melon root.

I haven't seen any studies regarding contraindication of cinnamon use during pregnancy. However, some vitamin manufacturers recommend that it not be consumed during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

On the other hand, diabetes itself is a significant risk for an unfavorable pregnancy outcome. These herbs have been used traditionally for diabetic and blood sugar-related problems.

So what is one to do? In the absence of advice from a qualified health professional, I would suggest that when you are ready to try to conceive, you discontinue the herbs until you have completed pregnancy and breastfeeding.

However, the best thing to do is consult with a health professional who understands herbs and nutritional supplements. This person can give you guidance as to which herbs and what dosages would be OK during pregnancy.

Of course, you would continue to focus on improving the quality of your diet and getting plenty of exercise in order to reduce your diabetic tendencies.