Fertility in Focus Podcast: Recent Episodes
Dr. Christina Burns
The Fertility in Focus Podcast is THE podcast to get you fertility savvy on the fly. Tune in to hear advice from experts in both conventional and natural fields of medicine. You’ll learn the facts from the fiction to help you navigate your fertility journey and get pregnant either naturally or via IVF. Get empowered on everything from fertility enhancing nutrition and supplements to all the advances in modern and alternative medicine. This is your go-to resource for evidence based natural and conventional protocols to get you pregnant ASAP.
Welcome to another insightful episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns! In this episode, Dr. Christina dives into the popular topic of intermittent fasting, exploring the benefits and challenges it presents for those on a fertility journey. Learn about different fasting methods, their impact on reproductive health, and whether intermittent fasting might be a good choice for you as you work toward optimal wellness and fertility.
In this episode, you will learn:
- The different types of intermittent fasting, including whole-day fasting and time-restricted feeding.
- How intermittent fasting impacts hormone levels and reproductive health in both men and women.
- The potential benefits of fasting, such as improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation.
- Concerns about intermittent fasting, including hormone imbalances, muscle loss, and its effects on fertility.
- Dr. Christina's recommendations for safely incorporating a light version of intermittent fasting to support overall wellness.
Timestamps:
- [00:00:55] Introducing intermittent fasting: Definitions and types
- [00:02:46] Potential benefits of intermittent fasting: Cognitive, antioxidant, and metabolic effects
- [00:03:18] Research findings on fasting and hormone levels: Testosterone, estrogen, and androgen markers
- [00:05:10] The impact of intermittent fasting on PCOS and reproductive health
- [00:08:48] Effects of intermittent fasting on DHEA levels in women
- [00:09:58] Concerns about muscle loss, electrolyte imbalance, and thyroid function
- [00:11:27] Fasting and stress: Impact on cortisol levels, hormone balance, and fertility
- [00:12:28] Dr. Christina's recommendations: A balanced approach to fasting
About Dr. Christina Burns:
Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook." Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:
Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/
Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOo
Join the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/
Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/
Follow along with the Naturna Institute:
Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/
Welcome to another empowering episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina explores the ancient power of Dang Gui, also known as Angelica root, and how it can support reproductive health, hormonal balance, and overall vitality. Discover the scientific research behind this legendary herb, its role in traditional Chinese medicine, and practical ways to incorporate it into your wellness routine for optimal fertility and well-being.
In this episode, you will learn:
- The rich history and cultural importance of Dang Gui (Angelica Root) in traditional Chinese medicine.
- How Dang Gui nourishes the blood and supports women’s reproductive health.
- The role of Dang Gui in regulating the menstrual cycle and alleviating PMS symptoms.
- How this herb benefits both men and women by improving blood circulation and balancing hormones.
- The unique anti-aging and skin-enhancing properties of Dang Gui.
- Practical ways to incorporate Dang Gui into your daily routine for overall wellness and vitality.
Timestamps:
[00:00:26] Introduction to Dang Gui (Angelica Root) and its role in fertility
[00:01:17] Benefits for both men and women: Supporting reproductive and hormonal health
[00:02:09] How Chinese medicine combines herbs into powerful formulas
[00:03:21] Dang Gui’s effects on menstrual health, digestion, and blood flow
[00:05:02] Hormonal balancing: Regulating estrogen and promoting youthfulness
[00:07:02] Libido and fertility enhancement for men and women
[00:08:00] Anti-aging benefits: Improving circulation, energy, and red blood cell production
[00:09:59] Dang Gui’s anti-inflammatory and skin health properties
[00:12:00] Conclusion: How Dang Gui can support fertility and overall wellness
About Dr. Christina Burns:
Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook." Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:
Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/
Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOo
Join the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/
Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/
Follow along with the Naturna Institute:
Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/
Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Burns explores the fascinating relationship between jetlag, sleep disruption, and fertility. She dives deep into how maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is essential for reproductive health and how jetlag can disrupt hormonal balance, impacting fertility outcomes.
Recent research has shown that circadian rhythm disruptions, such as jetlag, can interfere with processes like ovulation, implantation, and menstruation, which are crucial for successful conception. Dr. Burns offers practical advice on managing jetlag to protect your fertility, including tips on sleep, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
In this episode, you will learn:
- How circadian rhythms and sleep impact fertility and early pregnancy outcomes
- The role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in regulating stress and reproduction
- How jetlag and sleep disturbances affect hormonal balance and reproductive health
- Strategies to minimize the negative impact of jetlag on fertility
- Tips for managing jetlag during travel, including supplement recommendations like melatonin and magnesium
- How both men and women are affected by circadian rhythm disruptions
Timestamps:
[00:01:00] Introduction: How jetlag impacts fertility
[00:25:00] Circadian rhythms, hormonal regulation, and fertility
[01:07:00] The effect of jetlag on ovulation, implantation, and menstruation
[03:05:00] Jetlag’s impact on PCOS and hormonal regulation
[05:53:00] Practical tips for managing jetlag and optimizing fertility
[07:32:00] Supplement recommendations for sleep and energy during travel
[08:48:00] Conclusion: The importance of maintaining healthy circadian rhythms for fertility
About Dr. Christina Burns:
Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."
Tune in for insights on how to manage jetlag and protect your fertility while traveling!
Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:
Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/
Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOo
Join the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/
Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/
Follow along with the Naturna Institute:
Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/
Traditional Chinese Medicine is amazing when it comes to fertility. Acupuncture and moxibustion as a combo can be game-changer in your fertility journey. These ancient therapies have been used for centuries, and when combined, they can significantly improve your chances of conception. Acupuncture alone is powerful, but when paired with moxibustion—a technique involving the burning of mugwort sage—it becomes even more effective in enhancing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and supporting ovarian function.
Moxibustion, although lesser known, is an incredible therapeutic tool that works by warming specific points on the body, improving circulation, and promoting overall reproductive health. Many practitioners shy away from using it due to concerns about smoke, but I use a charcoal stick form that emits minimal smoke and smells like light incense. The benefits are undeniable, and in my practice, I've seen remarkable improvements in fertility outcomes when moxibustion is added to acupuncture treatments. And the research support it. Studies show improvement in ovulation in women with PCOS, thickening of the uterine lining for implantation, improved ovarian function and an antiaging effect on the eggs! Most of all, in multiple studies it has improved clinical pregnancy and life birth rates better than medications like estradiol or clomid.
Eastern medicine believes that many fertility issues stem from what is referred to as "cold in the uterus," which essentially means poor circulation and low-functioning organs. Moxibustion is highly effective in addressing these issues, making it a valuable addition to any fertility treatment plan.
So, whether you're dealing with PCOS, endometriosis, or just trying to improve your chances of conceiving, moxibustion might be the missing piece of the puzzle. Tune into today’s episode to discover how this ancient practice can support your fertility journey and learn why it’s more than just a complementary therapy.
You’ll Learn:
- The basics of moxibustion and its role in fertility treatment
- The combined power of acupuncture and moxibustion in improving reproductive health
- Research findings on how moxibustion enhances ovarian function and increases pregnancy rates
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
You may be wondering how a simple mineral like Chromium could have any impact on fertility. Well, you read that right—Chromium may actually play a significant role in enhancing fertility, especially for those dealing with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). This essential mineral is crucial for maintaining healthy blood sugar and insulin levels, which are often out of balance in women with PCOS. By supporting insulin function, Chromium may help lower testosterone levels, a key factor in restoring hormonal balance.
In this episode, we explore the research behind Chromium's potential to improve fertility, including a key study showing a 38% improvement in blood sugar levels with supplementation. We’ll also discuss its anti-inflammatory benefits and the best food sources to include in your diet.
Tune in to discover how Chromium could be the missing piece in your fertility journey.
You’ll Learn:
- How Chromium supports insulin and hormonal balance
- The fertility benefits of Chromium for women with PCOS
- Key foods rich in Chromium
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
In this episode of Fertility in Focus, we explore the significant yet often overlooked impact of subclinical or silent anemia on fertility outcomes. Despite being a common condition, silent anemia can play a major role in unexplained infertility due to low iron status.
Traditional hemoglobin tests might not be enough to catch early signs of anemia. We'll discuss the importance of checking other markers like serum ferritin and transferrin for a more accurate assessment of iron levels before anemia becomes advanced. You'll learn how iron deficiency affects cellular activities and overall well-being, particularly in women, and why it is vital for pregnancy health.
Discover the link between low ferritin levels and unexplained infertility, as well as the connection between thyroid issues and iron deficiency. We'll also explore the role of autoimmune conditions like autoimmune gastritis and celiac disease in affecting iron absorption and fertility.
If you're trying to conceive or looking to improve your overall health, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice on managing iron deficiency and enhancing fertility. We'll provide practical solutions for maintaining adequate iron levels, from dietary recommendations to safe supplementation options. Plus, we’ll touch on the importance of digestive health and the potential side effects of certain medications on nutritional status.
Tune into today's session to get the scoop on all things silent anemia and fertility!
You’ll Learn:
- The correlation between low iron status and unexplained infertility
- Research linking low ferritin levels to fertility issues
- Practical ways to test for and manage iron deficiency
- The role of diet, supplements, and digestive health in maintaining adequate iron levels
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
In today's episode, we dive into how strength training can revolutionize your hormonal health. Struggling with muscle loss, hormonal imbalances, or low energy? Strength training might be the solution. Discover how it stimulates the release of human growth hormone to build muscle and burn fat, and how it enhances insulin sensitivity to control blood sugar and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Learn how strength training helps regulate testosterone and estrogen, crucial for both men and women as they age. Men can boost muscle growth, energy, and sexual function, while women can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.
Lower body strength training, like squats and deadlifts, produces significant hormonal benefits, improving insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and overall hormone balance.
You'll Learn:
- How strength training aids in muscle growth and fat burning.
- The impact of increased insulin sensitivity on blood sugar control.
- Ways to regulate sex hormones through strength training.
- The difference between anabolic and catabolic hormones.
Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons. Have feedback or questions, or want to be a guest? Leave a comment or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
In this episode, we explore the incredible health benefits of apple cider vinegar (ACV). If you struggle with inflammation, digestive trouble, belly fat, and hormone imbalances then ACV can help relieve some of that discomfort by boosting stomach acid, aiding in digestion, reducing bloat, inflammation, and promoting weight loss.
For those who suffer from frequent yeast infections or candida overgrowth, ACV can be a lifesaver. Its antimicrobial and antifungal properties help to eliminate infections at their source, promoting better health and well-being. One remarkable property of raw apple cider vinegar has shown impressive antimicrobial effects against harmful organisms like E. coli, S. aureus, and Candida albicans, making it valuable for maintaining gut health and overall immune health. This can be super helpful to reduce PMS, and treat conditions like PCOS and endometriosis as well as an infection of the uterine lining (endometritis).
Additionally, ACV can enhance nutrient absorption, particularly calcium. Studies have shown that the acetic acid in vinegar boosts calcium absorption in the intestines, improving your body’s ability to absorb these essential nutrients.
Apple cider vinegar also aids in detoxification by helping to reduce body fat and naturally removing toxins that accumulate in fat cells.
Despite its acidic nature, ACV has an alkalizing effect on the body due to the presence of acetic acid bacteria. This helps balance your body’s pH, supporting metabolism, immune response, and intestinal wall healing.
Maintaining a healthy weight is another important aspect of overall health, and ACV can help with that too. Studies have shown that acetic acid in ACV helps reduce body weight and triglyceride levels, supporting healthy weight and insulin levels.
Moreover, ACV can help reduce stomach cramping and inflammation due to its pectin content. Pectin, a type of fiber, aids digestion by alleviating stomach cramps and reducing systemic inflammation and has been found effective in treating diarrhea in IBS patients.
Lastly, if you suffer from constipation, raw apple cider vinegar might be just what you need. It helps restore healthy gut bacteria, crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and keeping your digestive system regular.
You’ll Learn:
- How apple cider vinegar helps with digestion, weight loss and fertility
- The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of ACV and why it matters
- Ways ACV can aid in detoxification and nutrient absorption
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
You may be wondering if you read this title properly. Yes, I’am actually implying that music can be therapeutic for fertility. Mostly by means of reducing stress, since the stress response has such a dramatic impact on your hormones. The stress of trying to conceive can be all-consuming. Music has been proven to alter brain waves and reduce cortisol (your main stress hormone). Why not use smooth tunes to improve wellbeing as you go through this challenging time?
Music has been a part of human culture for millennia, and its effects on the human body have been widely explored. Music can stimulate the release of endorphins, our which can boost mood and promote relaxation. In fact, certain types of relaxing music can also modulate heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. Music actually helps regulate some hormonal feedback systems, such as your HPA axis (hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis). The HPA regulates how stress affects other systems, such as your reproductive hormones.
It’s no secret that chronic stress can wreck havoc on the body, often disrupting ovulation cycles, suppressing progesterone production or and causing free radical damage. Research suggests that music – with its ability to soothe, uplift, and even regulate physiological responses – has the potential to be an incredibly valuable tool in the journey towards conception. A study of 60 female volunteers, for example, suggests that calming music brought down their stress responses almost instantly. So, Whether you're trying to conceive naturally or undergoing fertility treatments, incorporating music into your daily routine might not only enhance your fertility but also make your journey more enjoyable. Tune into today’s episode to get the goods on all things music and fertility.
You’ll Learn:
- The effects of stress on the reproductive system
- Research about music on stress
- Types of music to listen to
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Todays’ episode shines a spotlight on the importance of food as medicine when it comes to enhancing your fertility. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the profound connection between the foods we consume and our overall health. Yet, this relationship is incredibly crucial. Viewing food as medicine encourages us to view our diet not merely as a means to satisfy our hunger, but as a powerful tool to enhance our health, prevent diseases, and promote longevity. All of which are essential for promoting healthy fertility. Today, we look at three foods in particular: watermelon, beetroot & ginger and their relationship to uterine receptivity.
Watermelon is rich in antioxidants is is linked to increasing NO (nitric oxide), a potent vasodilator (i.e. improves blood flow). Beetroot is also rich in several other bioactive compounds that also enhance blood flow and provide antioxidant and antiinflammatory benefits, particularly for disorders characterized by chronic inflammation. Not to mention that it is a great vegetarian source of iron. Last but not least, ginger! This superfood possesses multiple biological activities to enhance uterine receptivity and increase blood flow. Together - they make for a killer fertility enhancing combination.
The data suggest that the intake of beetroot, watermelon and ginger juice significantly improved implantation and pregnancy rates. For example, a randomized study enrolled 436 female patients undergoing IVF with ICSI cycles over a period of 3 years. The clinical pregnancy rate (41% vs. 22%) were significantly higher in the "juice" group compared to the control group.
You don’t want to miss this one! Tune in for all things nutrition and fertility.
You’ll Learn:
- The role of diet in your fertility efforts
- The benefits of Watermelon, Beetroot & ginger for your fertility
- Research supporting the roll of superfoods and fertility success
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is making headlines in the field of fertility, with ovarian PRP emerging as a promising approach for women facing certain egg quality challenges. This type of treatment involves injecting a woman's own platelet-rich plasma into her ovaries. PRP is a concentration of platelets and growth factors created from a patient's own blood. These growth factors can stimulate cellular regeneration and may help to improve ovarian function and increase IVF success. Its been used for decades in the beauty industry, hair growth and in healing a variety of conditions. Why not try it for fertility as well?!
Dr. Jesse Hade, MD, REI and his colleagues at Generation Next Fertility Center in NYC conducted a study to assess just that. They found that this therapy may be particularly beneficial for women experiencing premature ovarian failure or diminished ovarian reserve, conditions that impact the quantity and quality of eggs available for fertilization. Ovarian PRP is also being explored as a treatment option for women who have had poor responses to IVF cycles.
Tune in as we are joined by Dr. Jesse Hade, MD, REI - a compassionate board-certified reproductive endocrinologist with over two decades of private practice experience, is a leading expert in fertility and has earned numerous awards for his research. Is Ovarian PRP right for you? Listen in and find out!
You’ll Learn:
- What Ovarian PRP treatment is
- How PRP treatment is beneficial for fertility
- Who can benefit from this treatment
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode is a nutritional spotlight on pomegranate! Pomegranate has long been seen as a sacred fruit in most world religions as well as ancient mythologies. It’s mentioned in the Jewish Torah, the Old Testament in the Bible, and even ancient Babylonian texts. The fruit is generally associated with health, strength and abundance. However, eating pomegranate can also be helpful for supporting your fertility.
Pomegranates contain high levels of antioxidants, which have proven helpful for cardiovascular health, hormones and male fertility. This is especially helpful for enhancing sperm quality and protecting from oxidative damage. It has an amazing ability to increase blood flow and has been studied for its ability to improve athletic performance. It's also helpful for fertility and hormonal challenges (including menopause) due to their ability to regulate estrogen balance and support liver health. According to a systematic review, pomegranate extract increases cervical fluid, thickness of the uterine lining and blood flow in animal studies. Other research even highlights its use in fighting breast cancer!
Tune in to today’s session to get the scoop on all the ways in which pomegranates can aid in your fertility and overall health.
You’ll Learn:
- Pharmacological and physiological actions of pomegranate
- Research on the benefits of pomegranate
- How pomegranate can aid in fertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Is the quality of your sleep a defining figure in your fertility outcomes? That's what I aim to hash out in this session of Fertility in Focus. Sleep is not often the first thing that comes to mind when we think about fertility, but it may play a crucial role in reproductive health. Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns can disrupt the balance of key hormones, including those responsible for reproduction. Interrupted or short sleep duration is associated with everything from poor follicle development to implantation challenges. Not to mention inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, and of course, stress. Good sleep enhances the production of hormones such as progesterone and fosters healthy thyroid function. Poor sleep, on the other hand, is associated with estrogen dominance, progesterone deficiency and thyroid irregularities.
Sleep deprivation is both caused by and contributes to elevations in stress hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt reproductive hormones, make your ovaries underperform and impact uterine receptivity. According to the research, one study found that sleep disturbance, assessed using the single item query “do you experience disturbed sleep?”, occurred in 34% of infertile women (10). In addition, women with diminished ovarian reserve were found to be 30 times more likely to have disturbed sleep, another study found that greater than 35% of women receiving intrauterine insemination reported disturbances in their sleep.
If sleep has been an issue for you, don’t panic! Lifestyle changes and Eastern medicine can be incredibly helpful when it comes to enhancing your sleep quality. Build a healthy evening routine and avoid stimulating activities before bed. Aside from lifestyle, supplementing with magnesium, GABA, & valerian root can be a game changer. From an Eastern Medicine perspective, herbs such as Ashwagandha, Gui Pi Tang, Suan zao ren tang & Gan Mai Da Zao Tang can also help to improve your sleep quality. Better yet, get an all-in-one solution when you purchase our “Bespoke” Junk Juice option. Fill out a brief questionnaire and get a formula customized for your individual needs.
Tune into today's session to get the scoop on all things sleep and fertility!
You’ll Learn:
- The correction between stress and lack of sleep
- Research linking lack of sleep to infertility
- The importance of a healthy nighttime routine
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
It is easy to underestimate the power of preparation when it comes to fertility. Much of the time, the awareness of your ticking clock can make you want to take serious action. This may work out for many, however, if you’re struggling to see success, it may mean you need to revisit the basics, especially as it pertains to your lifestyle and natural methods.
In today’s session, we discuss the best ways to prepare for success, whether trying naturally or with IVF. It starts with our day to day, so placing an emphasis on eating anti-inflammatory foods, incorporating proper supplementation, and not skimping out on sleep makes a massive difference! Think you are losing time? Think of it more like reversing time. You are laying a foundation for conception on every level.
Want to get the goods on all things fertility prep? Tune into todays session!
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of consuming an anti-inflammatory diet
- The benefits of acupuncture for increased fertility outcomes
- The importance of mindset
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s nutrient spotlight is on Vitamin E. This essential vitamin is critical throughout the reproductive process and is especially helpful in cases of thin uterine lining, blood clotting issues, endometriosis and pregnancy loss.
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant, and like many other fertility supplements, it's properties can counteract the oxidative stress induced by oxygen free radicals, hence it may play a role helping egg, sperm and embryo quality. A recent study was conducted on the effects of vitamin E on the treatment outcomes of women with unexplained infertility who were undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation and intrauterine insemination (IUI). The findings concluded that vitamin E administration could improve endometrial response in women with unexplained infertility through the antioxidant and anticoagulant effects. Another study highlighted its ability to improve embryo quality. Mounting evidence also supports is use in reducing pregnancy complications like miscarriage and preeclampsia. Not to mention its magical benefits for endometriosis, bad periods and pelvic pain.
Want to know if vitamin E supplementation is right for you? Tune into today’s episode and find out!
You’ll Learn:
- The benefits of vitamin E supplementation
- The link between vitamin E deficiency and infertility
- Research linking Vitamin E supplementation to increased fertility outcomes
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
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The stress is high when things aren't quite panning out as we'd expected. Not to mention the hormonal roller coaster can be enough to make you feel insane. The physiological aspect is a real thing. One might say we are somewhat ruled by our hormones. And when you start tinkering with them using fertility medications, our brain chemistry can become a bit unstable. The build-up of excess estrogen can take a massive toll on our mental and physical well-being. For example - estrogen patches or oral medications can make us feel irritable, short-fused fused and easily overwhelmed. Progesterone could make you feel lazy while oral meds like clomid can cause insomnia - and the list goes on.
Dietary and lifestyle changes can have a tremendous impact on your body's ability to deal the hormonal and emotional roller coaster. Cleaning up your daily habits by incorporating something like the elimination diet, increasing your movement and prioritizing sunlight can not only increase your odds of success but help you keep your sanity along the way. Herbs and supplements are also indispensable when the going gets tough. In this session, we will go over some of my faves that treat fertility and mental health simultaneously.
From an Eastern perspective, weekly acupuncture is an incredible tool that aids in stress reduction and ups your odds. And don’t forget about the power of mindfulness. Meditate and fill your psyche with positive affirmations and stories that lift your spirit. We can handle so much more when we steer our focus towards the things that bring light.
Tune into today’s session to get all the tips and tricks on how to survive and thrive amidst your fertility journey.
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of a clean diet and lifestyle
- Supplements for mental health and fertility
- Mindfulness and mindset
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
It’s no secret that the path to pregnancy can be one of the most emotionally challenging experiences you’ll go through. With all the ups and downs, it can feel nearly impossible not to be overwhelmed by the uncertainty of it all. The fear and anxiety can become crippling. If this sounds familiar, you might be ready for a shift in mindset. This new perspective will not only help you to survive the process, its also highly likely to enhance your fertility.
In today’s episode, we are joined by Sylvana Rochet, founder and executive coach at Elan Vital Coaching. She is a strategic advisor and executive coach to founders and CXOs all over the world making her uniquely qualified to guide us through some of the most stressful situations - fertility included. Sylvana herself had less than ideal fertility parameters. However instead of acting out of fear, she chose trust. What’s her secret? Prioritizing was a major theme, as was a healthy lifestyle and of course, her mindset. In this session, we discuss her personal path to motherhood as she shares her tips and tricks for surviving and thriving throughout the fertility journey.
You don’t want to miss this one!
Where you can find Sylvana:
https://www.elanvital.co/ IG: @sylvanarochet
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of mindset on your path to baby
- Why prioritizing is key
- Tips for improving your odds via lifestyle and mindfulness
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
The process of pursuing surrogacy can seem daunting for those who are just beginning this part of their journey. For most, the path that led here has already taken you through quite a lot, and exploring new frontiers without proper guidance can feel like an additional delay. Choosing an agency is intimidating. Lengthy waits and costs are major concerns for many. Not to mention all the finer details that come about as you go along. If you are finding the realm of surrogacy to be bewildering, then today's episode is for you.
In this week's session, we are joined by Jessie Jaskulsky, Surrogacy Consultant and Concierge & founder of Surrogacy Simplified, a boutique surrogacy consulting and white glove concierge, that helps Intended Parents start or complete their family through the selfless gift of surrogacy. Jessie became a mom through surrogacy after a tragic loss and went on to have two children via different carriers. Jessie knows all the challenges and pitfalls and takes care of all the details, big and small, allowing her clients to truly enjoy this beautiful pathway to parenthood. She can also help you find your own gestational carrier if you'd like to cut down on the costs that come with using an agency!
You don’t want to miss this one! Join us as we learn about Jessie’s path to becoming a mom and the events that led to her becoming such a tremendous ally for those on their own surrogacy journey.
Where you can find Jessie:
Website: https://surrogacysimplified.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surrogacysimplified
You’ll Learn:
- costs, timelines and pitfalls
- The difference between working individually vs. with an agency
- Tips to prepare for this journey
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s session is a spotlight on one of my favorite modalities, Chinese herbs. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long history of treating infertility and has a remarkable curative effect in the treatment of gynecological and obstetrical diseases. Much of the time, conventional medical treatment with surgery, drugs, in vitro-fertilisation (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technologies (ART) does not always result in a viable pregnancy and live birth. It turns out that an integrative approach will double your odds of success! So, if you’re at the end of your rope on your path to baby, consider integrating herbs in your fertility regime.
Don't believe me? Let's look at the research - In a meta-analysis study, eight randomized controlled trials reported a doubling in the pregnancy rate in subfertile women using Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) within a 4-month treatment period compared with Western medical drug therapy alone. Another meta-analysis study suggested a 2 fold higher probability of achieving a pregnancy with CHM therapy than with WM therapy alone in women with infertility. Both of these studies included women with PCOS, endometriosis, anovulation, fallopian tube blockage, or unexplained infertility.
There are dozens of Chinese formulas used to address reproductive and hormonal health. So, as always, I aim to give you the tools you need to better your chances of conception. Tune in to get a glimpse of some of my favorite formulas and the ailments they treat.
Want the full list of supplements mentioned? They’re listed in detail when you purchase a copy of The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook.
Bonus? The JUNK JUICE formulas listed are available for purchase! Click here to grab EGG QUALITY and CHILL.
You’ll Learn:
- Research supporting the effectiveness of Chinese herbs in treating “unexplained infertility”
- My favorite Chinese herbal formulas and what they treat
- The benefits of an integrative approach to reproductive health
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Environmental toxins are everywhere. They’re in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and even in the soil that grows our food. When we talk about reducing our toxic load, much of it seems well beyond our control. After all, we live in a society that prioritizes convenience over all else, and plastic is very very convenient. However, there are ways that we can take back the reins. In today’s episode, we touch on microplastics and how they impact egg and sperm health. These tiny fragments are unfortunately on the rise. I'll give you the download on where they are creeping in, so that you can avoid them.
Microplastics (MPs), small pieces of plastic (∼5 mm), are released into the environment not only as a result of the decomposition of large-sized plastics but also from day-to-day use of plastic products. But not just from plastic bottles and cups. Think food, cosmetics, disposable coffee cups, teabags and more.
Many environmental pollutants can act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), mimicking the activity of endogenous steroid hormones and interfering in endocrine functions with different mechanisms, such as your reproductive system.
An overconsumption of MP’s negatively affects female and male fertility due to inflammation and oxidative stress. Studies have shown that extensive exposure to MPs aggravates various toxicities such as decreased diameter and number of eggs, decreased or empty follicles, inflamed ovaries, and reduced ovarian reserve. On the male side, exposure has been linked to decreased sperm quality and motility.
Tune into today’s session to get the scoop on all things microplastics and how you can lessen your toxic load.
You’ll learn:
- The prevalence of microplastics worldwide
- Research linking consumption of microplastics to infertility
- How you can avoid overconsumption
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Physical activity is a popular topic in the fertility landscape. More specifically - how much is too much and what is not enough? Many factors such as body type, weight, BMI, etc play a significant role in deciding what is right for you. With an overwhelming amount of information available, it can be difficult to establish your own exercise regime in the midst of trying to conceive. Some of you may quit altogether for fear of messing up your efforts. Others may continue with a rather intense regime for fear they might get fat or too stressed without it.
The general consensus appears to support that moderate intensity and duration of exercise is best. Among women, increased physical activity and decreased sedentary behavior may improve fertility. Likely in part through maintenance of body weight. However, exercise can also regulate hormones, or throw them off...
High levels of physical activity could inhibit ovulation, leading to decreased fertility, for example. In contrast, research shows that sedentary behavior was associated with decreased female fertility. Similar trends are reported for male fertility. As for IVF - Female physical activity before IVF/ICSI cycles was associated with increased rates of clinical pregnancy and live births as long as it was kept under 4 hrs per week.
So, what does an ideal routine look like? Listen up to get the scoop.
You’ll Learn:
- Research on the relationship between over-exercise/under-exercise and fertility
- What exercise regime is best for facilitating conception
- The importance of body type in determining your best protocol
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Your phone may be adversely affecting your fertility. Not kidding. Electronics are a major source of oxidative stress. I was actually shocked as I dove into the research. Yet, we aren't hearing much about it. Likely because we are so addicted, no one wants to hear it. Not to mention that it is a major economic driver.
More than three billion people are exposed to human-made EMFs (electro magnetic fields) every day. In the digital age, they’re almost impossible to avoid. You absorb EMFs from most technology: power lines, your cell phone, computer, tablet, television, WIFI router, Bluetooth, and pretty much anything else that runs on batteries or electricity. Not only can this be disruptive to your hormones and sleep schedule, but it is actually considered a human carcinogen. Yes, a confirmed cancer causing agent. But since that's not your focus, let's talk about how it's been proven to alter reproductive health.
It's been long understood that phones and laptops kill sperm. In fact, sperm counts are now half of what they were 50 years ago. Studies show that the oxidative stress causes sperm death and lowers testosterone in men. Lesser known is that it's bad for women too.
A 2015 study found that EMF exposure causes follicles to decrease rapidly—essentially destroying egg stores at a faster rate than usual and reducing your odds of pregnancy. Another study found that exposure to certain frequencies will impact follicle growth - Follicles are important because these have the potential to release eggs to be fertilized. Yet another showed high exposure caused pregnancy loss. Interestingly, wifi and other EMF exposure isn't regulated in the USA as it is in other countries. So yes, we are exposed to more....
Tune in to get the scoop!
You’ll Learn:
- What EMF’s are and why they are so harmful
- Research supporting the link between infertility and EMF exposure
- Ways in which you can limit your daily exposure
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Modern life can be pretty toxic at times. The focus on extending shelf life of products can lead to the addition of harmul chemicals. Not to mention that coloring or straightening, injecting our faces and so on just really involve chemicals to work as they do.
The average woman uses 12 different beauty products every day. This means that you can absorb many endocrine and hormone disrupters without knowing it. In terms of fertility concerns specifically, EDCs have been linked with reproductive development disorders, ovarian dysfunction, subfertility, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in women.
Case in point: a study published online Dec. 3, 2019, by the International Journal of Cancer found a link between hair dye and breast cancer. Women in the study who used permanent hair dye at least once in the 12 months leading up to the study had a 9% higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who didn't use hair dye. Harmful additives like Parabens, Toluene, Triclosan, Phthalates and lead are just some of many to look for.
In today's session we dive into harmful ingredients and their aliases. Its easy to turn a blind eye to this kind of thing. However, if you are at a point where you feel like nothing is working and/or you just want to take charge and do everything you can, then listen in.
You’ll Learn:
- What is an EDC (endocrine distrupting chemical)
- Harmful chemicals commonly found in beauty products
- Research supporting the link between certain chemicals and infertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
There are a myriad of new kits out there to "diagnose" hormonal patterns from the comfort of your own home. Today's session is dedicated to the art of "cycle mapping", with new technology as well as low-tech DIY methods.
If you are already in the throws of IVF, you may wonder what the point of this may be. I'd like to build a case that assessing your hormone levels can give insight as to what is happening beneath the surface, so you can devise a plan for boosting your fertility with the help of supplements, herbs and lifestyle change.
At-home hormone tests are often urine-based and look at sex hormones and their metabolites - estrogens, progesterone, androgens, and even cortisol and melatonin. Getting to know your patterns helps to identify issues that could influence fertility. However, that is not the only at-home testing you can utilize. Simple BBT (basal body temperature charting) is also an incredibly useful tool when tracking your cycle, identifying hormone imbalances and your fertile window.
Trying to conceive can be both mentally and financially taxing, and it motivates many to seek out the knowledge to take back some control. Even better when it's from the comfort of your own home. Tune in today to get the scoop!
You’ll Learn:
- The phases of your hormones
- How to map your cycle
- At-home hormone testing methods and their pros & cons
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Antioxidants are a powerful ally for fertility and overall health. The general rationale is that they slow or even reverse the effects of aging. Acai, a berry from the South American Amazon, is packed with powerful antioxidants. It is undergoing trials to boost ovarian function and egg quality. The data so far looks very promising.
The rationale behind the effectiveness of this supplement as well as other antioxidants is that oxidative stress is a major player in poor egg and embryo quality. A recent clinical study published in a peer-reviewed journal finds that women of advanced maternal age (women age 39 and older) who took an acai berry antioxidant supplement had comparable in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes to their younger counterparts, demonstrating its positive effects on aging-associated decline in fertility.
Today's episode highlights the benefits of adding Acai to your supplement regime. Acai berries are rich in fatty acids, especially oleic, palmitic, and linoleic acids. Not to mention, they contain more antioxidants than other commonly eaten berries which are believed to help protect against various diseases as they can neutralize oxidative damage caused by lifestyle and environmental stressors (i.e. pollution, bad food etc.).
Tune into today’s episode to get the scoop on all things acai and find out if it's the right fit for you.
You’ll Learn:
- The benefits of Acai berries
- Acai’s effect on improved IVF/fertility outcomes
- The connection between antioxidants and oxidative stress
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Before we had access to modern diagnostics, we relied on observation of physical signs, in addition to what the patient reported, of course. Nowadays we rely so heavily on labs and scans, that we have lost track of how our body communicates with us.
Eastern medicine practitioners usually look at the tongue and take the pulse to gather information on internal health. However, there are other signs that can be observed by practitioners and laypeople alike. There are several physical diagnostic tools such as the quality of your hair, skin and nails. In today's session, we dive into assessing the nails, in order to get a glimpse into the possible imbalances happening inside the body such as nutrition deficiencies, auto-immune disorders, liver health, inflammation, parasites and so much more.
For example, longitudinal lines can be an indicator of malabsorption while horizontal lines are a sign of depletion and illness. The absence of “moons” on your nails, otherwise known as lunula, is an indicator of weakness and if too large they could be a sign of cirrhosis of your liver! Have you ever glanced down and noticed little white specs on your nails? This could mean you are mineral deficient.
In the midst of the latest technology and advancements in Western medicine, we often forget about the importance of knowing how to read our bodies. Being aware of certain features or reactions is critical when attempting to understand our physiology. The body tells us what is happening before it shows up in labs.
Want to learn more about your nail health? Tune in to today's session and discover what your body is trying to communicate.
You’ll Learn:
- Eastern and Western medicine principles of nail diagnosis
- Various nail analyses and what they mean
- How the body communicates early warning signs of an imbalance
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
A new year is a good opportunity for new beginnings. A "reset" of sorts to get you back on track. Making a baby is not always as straightforward as you had expected or hoped. If the fertility struggle has left you feeling lost, disillusioned, anxious or depressed, today's session is for you. It can be truly transformative when we integrate small doses of meditation and mindfulness into our daily routine.
Meditation and other forms of mindfulness have been used for millennia to change your emotional, spiritual and physical health. By reducing stress, enhancing emotional equilibrium, and promoting relaxation, meditation contributes to an environment more conducive to conception. When combined with medical interventions, meditation can provide quick acting and effective therapy (at no cost) for patients seeking to improve their emotional wellbeing while enhancing their fertility.
Research on the topic supports the effects of meditation in improving your emotional state as well as fertility outcomes. Tune into today's session to get the goods on how meditation makes miracles on your fertility journey.
You’ll Learn:
- The benefits of mindfulness and meditation
- The research supporting the correlation between meditation and improved fertility outcomes
- Ways you can get started on your meditation journey
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode shines a light on a new supplement making its way into the fertility landscape. Pyrroloquinoline quinone, otherwise known as PQQ, is a redox cofactor that has been shown to stimulate the growth of new mitochondria, the cellular powerhouse where nutrients are turned into a form of energy cells can use. It is in essence, a very powerful antioxidant. Whereas CoQ10 energizes the mitochondria, PQQ can actually help create NEW ones. This is major in reversing the effects of aging and oxidative stress.
The development of sperm and egg cells is a highly complex and energy-dependent process that is supported by and requires a diverse array of micronutrients, which decline as we age and continue to consume poor-quality food. PQQ has been found to improve cell functions by stimulating growth, reducing oxidative stress (protecting cells from damage) as well as spontaneous generation of new mitochondria within aging cells.
You may know that a fertility-friendly diet, eliminating smoking, minimizing alcohol, reducing stress, and engaging in fertility-friendly exercise is very important whentrying to conceive, but we also know that fertility-specific supplements can be powerful allies in the fertility journey. Catered "nutraceuticals" can help you fill in nutritional gaps and provide other nutrients that are difficult to get through diet alone.
Could this supplement be right for you? Tune in to get the scoop.
You’ll Learn:
- Research supporting PQQ’s benefits in fertility outcomes
- What PQQ is and how it can be supplemented
- The correlation between the mitochondria and sperm/egg quality
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
We know that oxygen is essential for life, but did you know that there is a form of intensive oxygen therapy that can benefit your fertility? Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or HBOT for short, is a process where a person is subject to inhale pure oxygen at a pressure above normal atmospheric pressure. In today's session we explore the benefits and why is it effective for fertility.
According to research, this type of therapy has a myriad of health benefits. For starters, it facilitates a process known as angiogenesis. This involves the formation of new blood vessels from existing blood vessels, which helps blood reach further into areas/organs of the body where the previous supply of blood was low. This results in better healing, growth, and overall functioning.
How does this impact your fertility? HBOT increases blood flow to the ovaries resulting in better egg, sperm and embryo quality. Aside from that, it also improves the uterine lining and eliminates toxins. According to a study conducted by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, 32 women with unexplained infertility were entered into a randomized study over 3 years. The patients were treated in an oxygen chamber for 70 minutes, 7 days at a time. Results indicated an excellent response to the endometrium in both thickness and quality. Another study showed an improvement in mature eggs and blastocysts after undergoing the therapy during the stim phase of an IVF cycle.
Tune in to get the goods on HBOT and see if it's worth exploring on your path to conception.
You’ll Learn:
- What HBOT is and how it is used
- The relationship between HBOT and fertility
- Health benefits of HBOT
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
We are part of nature. Despite what we may be telling ourselves in modern times, the natural ebbs and flows of day, night, and the seasons greatly affect our well-being and of course, reproduction. In today’s session, we dive into how sunlight and maintaining a healthy day/night routine, can affect hormones and fertility.
Sunlight is more than just a source of light and warmth. It is a complex entity comprising various types of rays, including ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, and infrared radiation. The effect of sunlight on human health is a result of these components interacting with the body in different ways. For example, your circadian rhythm!
Circadian rhythms, the body's internal clock regulating sleep-wake cycles, are significantly influenced by sunlight. These rhythms play a critical role in hormonal balance, which is vital for fertility. Sunlight also synthesizes Vit D, a crucial fertility nutrient. If you know me, you know I prescribe this to almost all of my patients because of its incredible reproductive benefits. Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine” vitamin, is most effectively absorbed in the body through sunlight.
Tune in to get the scoop on how to honor the yin and yang of your day to maximize fertility.
You’ll learn:
- The correlation between sunlight and fertility
- The hormonal & psychological benefits of sunlight exposure
- The relationship between your circadian rhythm and sunlight
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
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Chinese herbal medicine is one of my top recommendations for fertility and beyond. In China it is more revered than acupuncture for its effectiveness in treating a myriad of issues. I observed doctor in Beijing who documented the shrinking of cancerous tumors using only Chinese herbal formulations. Similarly, I studied famous TCM gynecologists who used herbs to effectively treat fertility and other womanly challenges. But don't just take my word for it, besides the over 3000 years of documented clinical trials, scientific research is also mounting.
Dr. Thomas Leung, pharmacist, Chinese Medicine Doctor and CEO of Kamwo Herbal Pharmacy in NYC joins us in todays episode to discuss how herbal medicine works to improve your body chemistry and treat the root of the issue as opposed to just alleviating symptoms. Not only do we discuss the benefits, but we also address many popular questions surrounding the purity, cost and legitimacy of Chinese herbal medicine.
You’ll Learn:
- The benefits of chinese herbal medicine
- How herbs are manufacture & deemed safe for distribution
- Why traditional chinese medicine is growing in popularity
- The various forms of herbal medicine and the difference in concentration.
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today's episode is a remix of a popular episode with Dr. Meyer Olcha, REI. The landscape of fertility care is ever-changing. Some clinics prefer to stick with the more conventional IVF protocol as compared to other methods such as a "natural" or "mini" IVF protocol. Some doctors prescribe vitamins and others, not so much. In this session, we highlight various IVF protocols and supplements to complement. Not only might this involve fewer injectables, but it also may be lower in cost, more effective and potentially a quicker path to your baby.
Tune in as we are joined by special guest, Dr. Meir Olcha MD, FACOG, as we discuss the benefits of various IVF protocols as well as the importance of making affordable & individualized fertility care. Get the goods on all things IVF and the importance of diet and lifestyle practices while addressing important questions like which supplements to take and certain protocols to follow during a standard IVF cycle.
As always I aim to facilitate the connection between natural methods and Western medicine to help you conceive and quickly. Listen along and get in the know about all things IVF.
You’ll learn:
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the recommended supplements for your IVF cycle
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the critical connection between lifestyle and IVF success
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the difference between mini iVF and conventional IVF
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Who doesn’t love chocolate, right? Chocolate has a long and illustrious reputation. Made from cocoa, which is derived from the beans of the cacao tree (whose scientific name translates to “food of the gods''), it has been used by some of the earliest Mesoamerican cultures as food, medicine, ritual offerings and perhaps even currency. It's no less valuable in modern times. Chocolate is a delicacy, adored and consumed by many all around the world. Despite its rich history and good reputation, today’s session will unveil both sides of the spectrum; the good and the bad.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some health benefits. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains high amounts of magnesium & iron, has many powerful antioxidant properties and has been proven to improve cognitive function. According to the USDA, 50 grams of dark chocolate contains 114 milligrams of magnesium, which is about 35% of adult females' recommended dietary allowance. Milk chocolate contains about 31 milligrams of magnesium in 50 grams, about 16% of the RDA. Not only that, but some of its main components cause the brain to release serotonin or “feel good” hormones.
However, though there are pros, there are also some pretty compelling cons. While dark chocolate can have positive effects on your health, a 2022 study by Consumer Reports found that eating dark chocolate every day could be harmful for adults, children and pregnant people. They tested 28 popular dark chocolate brands and found that 23 contained levels of lead and cadmium that could be dangerous to consume on a daily basis. Consuming these heavy metals can lead to developmental issues, immune system suppression, hypertension and kidney damage in adults and children. It can also wreak havoc on your hormones by creating a copper imbalance. Interested to learn more?
Tune in to get the scoop on all things chocolate, the good and the ugly. I'll also touch on who shouldn't eat it, as well as how to consume it in a healthy way.
You’ll Learn:
- The health benefits of chocolate
- Why overconsumption of chocolate could be harmful to overall health and fertility
- What to avoid if consuming chocolate
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
In today’s session, we dive into a fertility discussion around one of the most vital glands in the human body, your thyroid. The thyroid is responsible for regulating your hormones, metabolism, growth, and overall development. Most importantly, research has shown that thyroid function plays a massive role in reproductive health. It is tied to several fertility challenges such as menstrual irregularities, egg and embryo quality issues as well as early pregnancy loss, preterm delivery and preeclampsia. Studies have shown a correlation between hypothyroidism and low ovarian reserve, leading to a poor response to IVF treatments. Low thyroid function is the most common thyroid issue we see, affecting nearly 5% of the population. In my clinical practice, I am seeing low thyroid be especially prevalent in those seeking fertility treatment.
Curious about what is causing your thyroid to underperform? Nutritional challenges such as iodine deficiency, hormonal changes (IVF, postpartum), toxins, inflammation, diet and more. Since Hashimoto's is a common culprit, inflammation is central to the conversation. Before diving into immune treatments, let's see what can be done naturally. As always, I want to encourage you to address the root cause of your challenges for the best outcomes.
Tune in as we discuss how thyroid dysfunction directly affects fertility as well as some natural strategies to treat these imbalances such as ashwagandha and kelp.
You’ll Learn:
- How hypothyroidism issues can directly affect fertility
- Strategies to boost your thyroid function
- The importance of addressing the root cause
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Halloween season is among us and with that comes temptation. In the spirit of tradition, you may find yourself indulging in some sweet treats. Unfortunately for us, the candy that stocks the shelves is mostly made up of high fructose corn syrup. This genetically modified (GMO) ingredient not only spikes your blood sugar but can also put a severe strain on your liver and cause systemic inflammation. It is associated with a litany of metabolic issues, not limited to high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes and INFERTILITY. Simply put - throw out the candy, processed foods, sauces, bars etc.. that contain this ingredient.
High fructose corn syrup is engineered to be sweet and addictive. It often finds its way into low-quality food products, which becomes an issue when we aren’t in the habit of checking ingredient labels. If you aren’t careful, you can fall victim to the cycle of sweet cravings and overeating. When it comes to fertility, high fructose corn syrup sets off an inflammatory cascade that affects egg growth and maturation (i.e. egg quality), ovulation, implantation and autoimmune fertility challenges. Since these GM corn products are processed differently than natural sugars, it not only affects your ability to facilitate a healthy pregnancy but also has the potential to affect the life of the unborn child.
Join us as we dive into the many negative effects of HFCS while encouraging you to pay extra attention to what enters your body. As always, I like to emphasize the aspects of our fertility that we have the most control over, diet being one of them.
Tune into today’s session to get the scoop on all things high fructose corn syrup and just how destructive it can be on your fertility journey and overall health.
You’ll Learn:
- What high fructose corn syrup is
- How high fructose corn syrup can negatively affect your fertility
- The effects of chronic inflammation caused by poor diet
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode highlights one of my favorite topics. If you have been a listener for a long time, you know that I am a big advocate for a gluten-free diet. This is largely due to the benefits of lowering inflammation and blood sugar issues, which account for many fertility challenges.
Gluten is a popular enemy these days as it is linked to everything from obesity to dementia. Whether it be celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten can spike inflammation and cause nutrient deficiencies, making it more difficult to facilitate and maintain a healthy pregnancy. And its correlation with diabetes and pre-diabetes is also notable.
One meta-analysis study conducted in 2016 demonstrated that women with infertility were 3.5x more likely to have celiac disease than those without fertility problems, and women with “unexplained” infertility were at even higher risk as they were 6x more likely to get a celiac diagnosis. In a 2018 study, a professor reported that many of his patients with long-term unexplained infertility (between 2-12 yrs of trying), became pregnant after following a gluten-free diet for between 3-12 months. This just goes to show what a tremendous impact diet can have!
In this session, I'll go through the research and reasoning for trying out a gluten-free diet. As well as how it may affect a variety of reproductive conditions - from endometriosis to PCOS, autoimmune fertility and more.
The main takeaway? It doesn’t hurt to try! Tune in to today's session to get the scoop on all things gluten-free and fertility and find out if it's right for you.
You’ll Learn:
- Gluten’s potential impact on reproductive health and fertility outcomes
- The relationship between gluten and inflammation, blood sugar and more
- How undiagnosed celiac can affect fertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Living within all of us is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms - bacteria, fungi, viruses and even parasites. The human microbiome plays a significant role in determining the health status of every individual, and very much so in regards to our reproductive health and fertility. Inflammation is a biproduct of an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria.
When we begin to accumulate overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria or fungi, adverse reactions can occur ranging from mild to more serious complications. A yeast infection of bacterial imbalance may seem trivial, but it could be the difference between a successful pregnancy or lack there of. Candida Albicans, is the most common of all digestive and urogenital infections, affecting 40-60% of people. Its the focus of today's seesion because it has been shown to cause issues with sperm quality, egg fertilization, failed implantation and miscarriage.
In today's day and age, our lifestyles can take a massive toll on our internal ecosystem. This can be the result of poor diet, overconsumption of alcohol, excess stress, medications and so much more. IVF meds or antibiotics, for example, can upset the balance and lead to more chronic challenges with fertilty, digestion and overall health. My point is not only to point out the problem, but to raise awareness on a lesser known topic and tell you what you can do about it. Much of the time, this “unexplained infertility” we are seeing so much of these days is often a result of factors within our control.
Tune into today’s session to get the goods on all things microbiome and how maintaining homeostasis is essential on your path to baby.
You’ll Learn:
- The role of our microbiome
- How dysbiosis and candida albicans can affect your ability to conceive
- Tips to maintain a balance of good and bad bacteria
- The importance of lifestyle in maintaining your internal environment
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Much of the time, basics are overlooked in favor of medicated fertility protocols and invasive procedures. If you listen to my podcast or have seen me clinically, you know that I believe that attention to our daily rhythms is often all we need. And understanding our physiology will not only quicken the path to a baby, but it will also transform your life for the better.
Today’s session is about a simple but crucial reproductive hormone. Progesterone is our ally in implantation and maintaining a pregnancy. It also calms us, helps us sleep, reduces bloating and more. If it's deficient, you may struggle to get pregnant, have bad PMS, heightened anxiety or issues maintaining your ideal weight. Spotting midcycle or for days before your period? Could be low progesterone.
We know that most modern-day fertility clinics are treating low progesterone with supplementation, especially as it pertains to IVF protocols. However, I like to emphasize the importance of discovering if and why your progesterone is low. Many times, low progesterone is an indication that other aspects of your reproductive health may be underperforming, such as your ovulation and egg quality. Low progesterone can be caused by a number of factors such as insulin resistance, thyroid issues, inflammation or high stress.
Tune into today’s episode as we discuss the importance of a more well-rounded holistic approach to treating low progesterone levels while giving you some helpful tips on boosting them naturally via diet and lifestyle.
You’ll Learn:
- Why progesterone is important
- How estrogen and progesterone work together
- How to know if you have low progesterone
- Ways to naturally boost your progesterone levels
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Growing awareness is one of our best allies in changing outcomes. It is through tuning in that we figure out the necessary lifestyle changes that transform our health. These days we have all sorts of tech to monitor daily rhythms. Today's special guest, Dr. Kamellia Dimitrova MD, has developed a device that monitors our energy fields in relation to our daily habits and routine.
You might be wondering how this helps you on your fertility journey..... Well, it can help a whole lot! The energy it measures relates to the energy used by our eggs. The mitochondria in particular. When it comes to fertility challenges like egg quality, sperm quality or issues with implantation, the health of our mitochondria is paramount. That's what popular supplements like CoQ10 are geared towards.
Tune into today’s sessions to get the scoop on all things energy as it correlates directly to fertility and how you could benefit from Dr. Kamellia’s approach to fertility care and overall wellness.
You’ll Learn:
- The role of the mitochondria as it pertains to fertility
- How critical of a role our daily energy outputs play
- How changing your daily habits can impact your ability to conceive
In her esteemed capacity as an Attending Cardiothoracic Surgeon at preeminent institutions like Beth Israel Medical Center, NY, and Saint Vincent’s Hospital, Manhattan, coupled with hundreds of articles, chapters, and presentations, Dr. Kamellia R. Dimitrova has cemented her reputation as a profoundly skilled medical visionary.
Her tool known as, Vitalsight, delivers an astute evaluation of your daily autonomic nervous system (ANS) reactions, recovery, and both aerobic and anaerobic exercise activities. This is accomplished through a thorough frequency analysis of your heart rate in conjunction with movement to evaluate how efficiently your body generates, retains, and utilizes energy for vital processes.
Where you can find Dr. Dimitrova:
Instagram handle: @quantumheartinc
website: www.quantumheartinc.com
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Leave A Review
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Egg quality is a major buzz in this landscape. Besides age, it's not quite clear why egg quality issues are so rampant. Some women's ovaries are behaving as if they are already aged out. Much of the time this just isn't so. There is often an angle not yet explored. As always, I make it my mission to deliver you the goods on how to improve your chances of conception whether trying naturally or via IVF. Today's session sheds light on a lesser-known fertility hack, light therapy. Recent advances in fertility care include low-level laser light therapy (LLLT), otherwise known as photobiomodulation.
This non-invasive treatment is a rather inexpensive assisted reproductive technology that can be used alongside other methods, such as acupuncture, to increase your chances of conceiving a healthy pregnancy. The best part? You can use it at home! The benefits of red light therapy occur on a cellular level as it supports the powerful functioning of the mitochondria. When this type of therapy is administered, there is an increased production of nitric oxide which improves coronary blood flow, directly benefiting the testes and ovaries. Application to the neck can also result in a systemic release of beneficial hormones. A research study from Denmark explored the administration of LLLT therapy to the lower abdomen in women for a duration of 23 minutes 1-2 centimeters above the skin. After two weeks and six treatments, researchers found there was a 65% success rate in those who participated after years of unexplained infertility.
Failed implantation an issue? LLLT has been shown to help in this area too. Invigorating the mitochondria of the cells boosts any tissue needed for reproduction. And the research supports it too. However, these treatments are not exclusive to the ladies! This therapy also does wonders for sperm quality, so the men can participate as well. Treatment sessions where the light is placed 1-2 centimeters from the testes for a duration of 10 seconds showed that sperm concentrations increased from 2 million to 40 million in just a single session.
Tune into today’s session to see if LLLT therapy is something you’d consider adding to your fertility regime, you may be surprised by the results!
You’ll Learn:
- What LLLT therapy is
- How LLLT therapy is helpful for reproductive health
- The importance of the mitochondria as it pertains to fertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
If you are wondering about the hype surrounding the keto diet, this session is for you. We see posts online of people touting its benefits, but how exactly does this extreme protein/fat diet help? In today’s episode, we are joined by fertility doctor, Robert Kiltz, MD, as he shares his perspective on the importance of a keto-carnivore diet. He walks us through the possible issues with the standard “healthy’ American diet, a plant-based, lean meat, low-fat regimen, and how this can make us more susceptible to disease and infertility.
Robert Kiltz, MD is the Founder and Director of Central New York’s first successful IVF center. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and fellowship-trained and board-certified in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Dr. Kiltz has special interest and training in advanced reproductive technologies, laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgery, gynecology, endometriosis and recurrent pregnancy loss.
This episode covers all things nutrition, gut health, blood sugar metabolism and inflammation. Join us as Dr. Kiltz shares his expertise on the keto diet as we discuss his book based on its benefits for general health and fertility. In addition, he gives us some insight into his personal regime and how intermittent fasting plays in role in helping to improve your digestive function.
Tune in to get the scoop on all things keto-carnivore diet and its potential advantages. You’ll Learn:
- What the keto-carnivore diet consists of as well as its potential benefits
- The issues with standard American eating habits
- How blood sugar issues and inflammation affect fertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Fertility clinics are dealing with an especially high volume of patients these days. Some centers in NYC, for example, are telling patients they can't see them for a few months. It's now become the norm to do multiple IVF cycles before achieving success. That said, many doctors are so busy that they don't have time to think about the protocol they are designing for you. While the standard medication protocols work well for many, some ladies require more creativity than others. Generally, this is the case with women who have low ovarian reserve and/or mysterious issues with implantation failure.
As always, my goal is to get you to realize your dream of a baby, and fast. I love to emphasize the importance of integrative medicine to get you to your goal in no time. And part of that is getting in the know about your options for IVF treatment. In today’s session, we dive into a more Western approach to IVF protocols and inform you on how to get the most out of these treatments. I've chosen a popular fertility drug called Lupron and explained some common uses.
Tune in as we give you the scoop on the various uses of lupron in IVF cycles.
You’ll Learn:
- How lupron works
- Who its for
- The pros and cons
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today's episode is a supplement spotlight on folic acid/folate. This supplement is incredibly common for those on their baby-making journey whether trying naturally or via IVF. It's probably the number one most prescribed vitamin even by conventional medical standards. Why? There is a lot of solid research to support its use in fertility treatment and pregnancy.
Studies among couples undergoing infertility treatment in Europe suggest that folate may improve reproductive success. Those who received a folic acid supplement had better quality eggs and a higher mature egg yield than women who did not receive folic acid. It also helps boost progesterone and correct issues with late ovulation.
The question is - why does it work? We’re reacting to a lot of things these days. Inflammation is heightened for a variety of reasons - poor quality food, high stress, MTHFR mutation and more... Adequate levels of folate may help to keep histamine and homocysteine down. Homocysteine is a major player in blood clotting, failed implantation, poor egg quality and more. A cohort study including 259 women who were regularly menstruating showed a connection between a higher homocysteine concentration and an increased risk of a lack of ovulation by 33%. Furthermore, folic acid or folate showed decreased homocysteine levels.
Note that I recommend Folate in place of folic acid in combination with vitamins B-12 and B-6 for best absorption. You will most often see me prescribing folate as it is associated with higher progesterone levels, helping egg quality and decreasing ovulatory issues.
Join us as we discuss the importance of folate as it pertains to a healthy pregnancy.
You’ll Learn:
- What folate is
- Its importance in facilitating a healthy pregnancy
- Its effect on reproductive health
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
We don't have control over all aspects of our fertility, but we do have agency over what we put in our mouths. Fats constitute a vital dietary compound, including how it pertains to hormonal health. Healthy fats, such as omega 3’s, are a tremendous ally to your conception efforts. Others, especially those found in our modern diet, can affect everything from our egg quality to our cardiovascular health. Trans fat, for example, is just straight-up evil. By far the largest amount of trans fat consumed today is created by the processed food industry. These partially hydrogenated fats have displaced natural solid fats and liquid oils in many areas, the most notable ones being in the fast food, snack food, fried food, and baked goods industries. Hydrogenation increases product shelf life and decreases refrigeration requirements. This makes it cheaper for companies who want to maximize their profits.
So why is this so important? Because trans fats are everywhere! And you likely aren't aware of how much you are consuming and what it is doing to you. These days, you have to be extra diligent about avoiding them. You may avoid processed foods, but eating out is a HUGE culprit. When you cannot make the food yourself, you have no idea how it is being prepared! One 2007 study found, "Each 2% increase in the intake of energy from trans unsaturated fats, as opposed to that from carbohydrates, was associated with a 73% greater risk of ovulatory infertility.” That said, tone down the takeout and packaged foods to reduce the impact of these toxic fats on your fertility and overall health.
Tune into today’s session and find out why the quality of dietary fats matters on your baby-making journey.
You’ll Learn:
- Research supporting the correlation between trans fat consumption and infertility
- The problems with the average American diet
- How unhealthy fats pose a threat to your fertility
- The importance of consuming healthy fats
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
We know that the amount of added sugar in the modern-day American diet is off the charts, but do you know just how much it’s affecting you and your fertility efforts? Much of this increase comes from higher intake of sugar-sweetened beverages, which constitute approximately one-third of the total added sugar consumption in the American diet. Both insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism can significantly affect ovulation and female fertility overall. Today’s episode is a spotlight on the ways in which refined carbohydrates, sugary beverages and energy drinks can directly affect your ability to conceive and hold a pregnancy.
A new study led by Boston University School of Public Health researchers has found that the intake of one or more sugar-sweetened beverages per day—by either partner—is associated with a decreased chance of getting pregnant. Females who consumed at least one soda per day had 25 percent lower fertility; male consumption was associated with 33 percent lower fertility. That’s huge! Most of us are aware of just how bad these beverages are, so we opt for diet versions instead. Unfortunately, these have their own undesirable effects on reproductive health.
Tune in to today’s session to get the scoop on why a high glycemic diet and sugary beverages affect your reproductive outcomes.
You’ll Learn:
- How these drinks can directly affect your baby-making efforts
- Blood sugar and Insulins impact on fertility
- Research linking infertility with these beverages
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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In the fertility world, we often get the impression that exercise isn't necessary or helpful. In fact, we are told that exercise could mess up our chances of conceiving. Doctors may tell you to stick to walking, especially in the implantation phase of your cycle (i.e. after you ovulate). However, it happens to be a bit more nuanced than that. In fact, the right kind of exercise can actually amplify your chances of getting pregnant.
Interestingly, studies show that we actually perform better athletically before we ovulate, and we are naturally a bit less inclined to move mountains after ovulation occurs. Coincidence? I think not. Our natural design is very intelligent. Once you learn to work with it, you'll master all your rhythms.
Today’s episode gives you the scoop on how to exercise for your hormones. We all know that exercise is one of the most beneficial things we can do for ourselves. Not only is it vital to our physical health, but also does wonders for boosting our endorphins and reducing stress. It is important to note, however, that exercise can also be a stressor on the body, and may deplete essential reproductive hormones, particularly the ones we need for implantation. To strike the right balance, we need to hone in on the types of exercises as well as the duration, when seeking to achieve the optimal hormonal balance to conceive.
Excess high-intensity or aerobic exercise, for example, can deplete progesterone. Whereas certain types of interval or weight training can assist in progesterone production. Pssst.. these tips not only help with fertility but also with weight management and happiness.
You’ll Learn:
- How our hormones change over the course of the cycle
- The positive and negative effects of exercise on hormones and fertility
- What type of exercise is best for which phase of the cycle and why
- Research on exercise and hormones
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Unexplained infertility doesn't mean there isn't a cause. It's just that you haven't found it yet. This is why it's important to take inventory of more subtle things in your day to day. Our nutrition is a big one. Deficiencies in certain nutrients can pose big problems with our reproductive health. We need all systems firing reasonably well for pregnancy to hold and progress. Our thyroid plays a significant role in our ability to reproduce. Thyroid issues pose problems for egg growth, egg and embryo quality and ovulation. One key nutrient required for thyroid health is iodine. This trace element found in soil and water, is ingested in several chemical forms. Seaweeds, fish or other seafood, iodized salt and iodinated breads are the main dietary sources of iodine, but it can also be found in good quality fermented dairy products like Kefir and certain strains of yogurt.
Iodine is an essential nutrient that makes up part of the thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which facilitate a number of different processes in the body. Because of this, not enough iodine in the diet can lead to hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), which can present as symptoms including tiredness, weight gain and brittle hair and nails.
Iodine deficiency has been well-researched in pregnant women. Interestingly our need for iodine goes up during pregnancy. Women who are deficient are more likely to have issues during pregnancy and produce children with low IQ. More recently, research has been coming out showing iodine’s role in fertility. Deficiencies of this key nutrient are showing up big time in cases of unexplained infertility
Tune in as we dive into multiple studies that highlight the importance of monitoring the iodine status in women of reproductive age as well as how crucial it is to maintain an optimal level of iodine intake both before and during pregnancy.
You’ll Learn:
- How Iodine affects fertility
- Research supporting the importance of optimal iodine intake
- How to supplement and/or get more Iodine in your diet
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Today’s session highlights the importance of having key nutrients for conception. Iron, folate and B12 are amazing for overall health and fertility. You might be thinking, duh?! What you might be missing is having them in a super absorbable, bioavailable form. Iron, for example, serves as an essential element for a wide variety of vital functions within the cells and reproductive processes. Many women are deficient and over 60% of pregnant women become deficient. It's also a very underrated cause of fertility struggles.
Iron deficiency can play a critical role in human infertility, as it can affect the menstrual cycle, egg quality and may even play a role in endometrial receptivity. A study revealed that 50% of participants suffering from anemia had stopped ovulating. Another noted poor egg and embryo quality in those with iron deficiency. We might then assume that by correcting iron deficiency, embryo quality and pregnancy rates may improve. However, the way you get this key nutrient is very important. Studies have found that an excess of iron in the system causes cellular death, fertility challenges and many pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and low birth weight. It also kills sperm.
Too little iron - infertility. Too much iron - infertility. This brings me to the discussion of how I suggest you get this essential nutrient. Forms of synthetic iron may not absorb properly and may build up and cause inflammation. A supplement I love to utilize in this case, is liver extract, which contains naturally occurring iron, folate and B12. This is your fertility triple threat. Not to mention that you will feel energized, clear-minded and more alive when taking it. It makes sense given that fatigue, brain fog and mental issues are often related to a deficiency in these nutrients.
Tune in as we discuss all things liver extract and the importance of iron intake as well as what happens when you have too much or too little in your system.
You’ll Learn:
- Why sufficient iron intake is essential for vital functions in the body
- Research that demonstrates the correlation between iron and fertility/pregnancy challenges
- How to supplement low iron through nutrition and supplementation
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
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We love to be thorough here at the Fertility in Focus Podcast. As such, we sometimes dive into very specific conditions. Why leave any stone unturned, right?! Today’s session is about a sneaky hormonal imbalance that can be affecting your ability to conceive. If you’ve been struggling with irregular cycles, absent ovulation, low progesterone or a thin uterine lining, it may be due to high prolactin levels. This hormone, produced by the brain's pituitary gland, is vital in female reproduction. However, it can show up in men too. More on that later…
Luckily you can figure out whether you have elevated prolactin with a simple blood test. Causes and treatment, on the other hand, get a little more complex. In this session, we cover root causes as well as how you can get it back in check using supplements, diet and lifestyle.
Tune in as we discuss all things high prolactin and how you can prevent it from hindering you on your fertility journey.
You’ll Learn:
- Symptoms of high prolactin
- What happens when high prolactin goes untreated
- How it affects fertility
- What you can do about it
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today's topic is one that many women can relate to. Painful periods are not only debilitating but also a sign of some underlying issues. Contrary to what you might hear from your doctor, having a painful period is not normal and does not need to be your reality. That said, we discuss all the factors within your control that help to address issues lurking beneath the surface as opposed to becoming dependent on quick fixes.
You may notice that treatment typically includes birth control or extra-strength ibuprofen. Not that there is anything wrong with a more Westernized approach, but oftentimes these are just temporary solutions to an issue that we'd do better to address. What is your period telling you? That's what I am to address in this session. Generally, where there is pain, there is inflammation. It's your body's cue to tune in and make some changes. Inflammation affects fertility on many levels. It is a culprit in poor egg quality, implantation failure and miscarriage and is common in conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, fibroids as well as the very frustrating "unexplained infertility".
Methods such as reducing inflammation via a clean diet, mindfulness, herbal medicine and catered nutraceuticals can work wonders for both your pain and your fertility. Tune in to discover all the ways in which you can take charge of your periods and your fertility.
You’ll Learn:
- Holistic methods to correcting a painful cycle
- Why you may be experiencing a painful cycle
- Research on holistic methods to support treating painful periods
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Our mind is a powerful thing. It basically dictates how we experience most of our waking hours. Our beliefs, experiences and physiology make up our thought patterns. We know that caffeine or stress makes the thoughts move fast. Sugar, booze or hormones can make our mood dark. What most people don't realize is that we have a choice when it comes to our thoughts. And what we tend to focus on, we may bring more of into our lives - good or bad.
It is no secret that maintaining a positive mindset can be rather difficult amidst the ups and downs of your fertility journey. It is completely normal to experience a wide range of emotions like guilt, shame, fear, etc, especially when so many factors are outside of your control. However, reframing your thoughts can make a tremendous impact not only on your health and fertility, but also your quality of life.
Today’s session is about manifestation and how you can use mindfulness to help you on your path to a baby. Various methods such as written or vocal affirmations, positive self talk, mental visualization and self care techniques are all useful when it comes to welcoming the good into your life, or in this case, in your womb.
Tune in as we are joined by Michelle Oravitz, acupuncturist, ayurvedic practitioner, and certified hypnotherapist as we discuss the ways in which you can manifest a healthy pregnancy.
You’ll Learn:
- Visualization & affirmation techniques for fertility
- Why framing your thoughts is so important on your path to baby
- Research to support the benefits of visualization
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
When we talk about infertility, our brains instinctively think about women. Whether that be in scientific terms or societal expectations, the conversation is dominated by female voices, leaving out half of the equation. It is no secret that men take a back seat when it comes to the conversation surrounding baby-making. However, today's session emphasizes the importance of male fertility and the difficult conversations many men avoid when it comes to their own reproductive health.
Men suffer in silence, holding the space for their women. Male conditioning makes it so that there are very few safe spaces for men to discuss their own experiences. What’s the issue with that? Today's guest will tell us what it was like for him.
Tune into today's session as we are joined by IVF Consultant Johannes Soulages. He walks us through his own feelings of anger, shame, guilt, etc amidst his fertility journey. We stress the importance of facing your emotions as you go through the process while providing resources on where to do so.
Where you can find Johannes: Instagram - @four.consulting
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of seeking help when needed
- The experience of the men amidst a fertility/IVF journey
- Ways for men to play an active role
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
For many, summer is a time to pause and regroup. Whether you are just beginning your baby making efforts or you've been at it for a while, this week's episode can give you some insight on what to work on in the "meantime". Preconception planning is neglected by most, but laying the groundwork can help immensely in reducing the amount of cycles needed to conceive a healthy pregnancy.
Lifestyle factors like nutrition, mindfulness, low key exercise and time outside are highly overlooked, yet proven to fast track your path to a baby. If you have found yourself bewildered as to where to start or what to do next, this episode gives you a good starting point. Tune in to get the scoop on how to take charge of your fertility journey.
You’ll Learn:
- lifestyle factors that affect fertility
- natural medicine methods to integrate
- the basic physiology of fertility and how to master your rhythms
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
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If you listen to this podcast, you'll know that i'm a huge fan of DIY home remedies. Particularly for hormones, beauty and baby making. Today’s session is a spotlight on an effective treatment for cysts, fibroids and other buildup in the reproductive (and other) system(s).
Castor oil is derived from the seeds of the castor plant. This magical substance has been used for centuries in many cultures to promote healing of the reproductive system as well as an effective detoxifying agent for the lymphatic system and liver. It has a myriad of health benefits including being a natural moisturizer, stimulating hair growth and most importantly having powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
Using castor oil packs placed directly on the skin can increase circulation, dissolve cysts, shrink or soften growths and scarring, and enhance uterine receptivity. How does castor oil perform all these miracles? It stimulates the parts of the body in charge of removing waste and toxins and regulates immune function.
As is often the case with ancient medicines, castor oil was dismissed for many years by the modern scientific community as being mere folklore. But more recent studies have even the most ardent critics becoming believers.
We touch on all the ways it could be of use, especially in the realm of fertility. Tune into today's session as we give you the scoop on whether castor oil therapy is right for you.
You’ll Learn:
- What it is and how it works
- Research supporting the health benefits of castor oil
- How castor oil can be helpful in the realm of fertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Who doesn't love cinnamon? Today’s session is on the benefits of this delightful spice. You may only think of it as a flavor to sprinkle on top of your morning oatmeal, but its myriad of health benefits make it worth integrating into your daily routine.
Cinnamon is a powerhouse in cases of menstrual disorders, PCOS, egg quality, sex drive, increasing testosterone and even promoting lasting erections. Not only that, but its powerful antioxidant properties improve fertility in both men and women. Fertility aside, cinnamon is a powerful weight loss ally as it regulates blood sugar and insulin. Its benefits on metabolic health make it amazing for your heart, cholesterol and even varicose veins!
Consider amping up your daily dose to benefit from all the ways in which cinnamon can make a difference in your fertility and wellness journey.
You’ll Learn:
- The benefits of cinnamon
- Studies supporting its beneficial properties in the realm of fertility & menstrual disorders
- How to get the most out of this spice
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode gives you the inside scoop from a fertility nurse on different protocols to consider. Failed cycles can be incredibly taxing emotionally as well as financially. Each fertility journey requires its own multi-faceted approach to care, and knowing what to ask can be a leg up. Curious about what fertility meds to ask about? That's what we get into in this session.
Tune in as we are joined by fertility nurse consultant and injection expert, Jessica Joseph, as she shares insider information directly from the fertility clinic. She walks us through what to expect when a failed cycle occurs such as adapting medication protocols & integrating certain supplements. We also discuss her website Guided Fertility where she offers support on anything from pre-conception planning to third-party reproduction.
You’ll Learn:
- What to do in lieu of a failed cycle
- How you can improve your chances of conception
- The scoop on timing in between cycles
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
In this episode, we are having a short and sweet session on the use Hcg in fertility treatment. Otherwise known as Human chorionic gonadotropin, Hcg is the pregnancy hormone produced by the placenta. It's been used for years to improve muscle tone in athletes and in weight loss therapies. Due to its growing popularity in various fertility protocols, we dive into its effects given in low doses during an IVF or natural cycle.
As it pertains to fertility, this hormone is responsible for supporting the normal development of an egg and can be used to trigger ovulation. In women specifically, it is used to enhance egg quality production, boost embryo quality, and support the production of progesterone. In men, Hcg injections are used to stimulate testosterone production and help in cases of low testosterone, poor sperm quality or underdeveloped testes.
Tune into today's session to get the skinny on Hcg
You’ll Learn:
- The definition of Hcg and what it used for
- Benefits of and uses of Hcg in both men and women
- Risk factors associated with Hcg injections
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
We are in for a treat today. Dr. Paul C Magarelli MD REI and Director at Kindbody in Denver, joins us to share a proven integrative approach to get you pregnant faster! Lovingly referred to as "Dr. Mag" by his colleagues and patients, he is dedicated to the advancement of integrative reproductive medicine as well as the need for affordable care. Interestingly, the fusion of Eastern and Western techniques results in less time trying and fewer IVF cycles, thereby inadvertently reducing the cost of treatment!
Dr. Mag and his wife, Dianne Cridennda L.Ac, have conducted multiple double-blind placebo control trials over the past 20 yrs to demonstrate the power of the East meets West approach. When it comes to fertility, the goal is always the same no matter the paradigm. And as it turns out, the integration is demonstrating superior results.
Join us to discuss the benefits of integrating Western and Eastern procedures, the physiological effects and exactly how many treatments for the win.
You’ll Learn:
- The Importance of Eastern and western collaboration
- Research supporting the benefits of acupuncture in increasing chances of conception
- The physiological/hormone effects of Eastern medicine
- How many treatments are needed
Where you can find Dr. Paul C Magarelli MD.
- Instagram: @Kindbody and @KindbodyDenver
- Website: https://kindbody.com/
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
DHEA is a "prohormone" (hormone precursor) secreted in large amounts by the adrenals. It has a myriad of health benefits, many specific to reproductive health. As with all things, there are pros and cons. DHEA is a controversial supplement as is not suitable for everyone's individual body chemistry.
DHEA boosts the production of natural growth hormones, making it helpful for sexual function, building muscle, enhancing libido, increasing energy, improving cognitive function, fighting depression, increasing AMH, fighting inflammation and so much more. In research, DHEA has also been found to assist in all of the aforementioned issues as well as improving embryo quantity and quality in women with diminished ovarian reserve.
Sounds pretty awesome, right? There are ways to make sure it's right for you. One is to measure your levels via the DUTCH test, available through Naturna or christinaburns.com by clicking here.
Tune into today’s episode to discover all the ways in which DHEA can be used and how to figure out if supplementing it is right for you.
Interested in our online dispensary? Access it here.
You’ll Learn:
- The definitions of DHEA and AMH
- The benefits of supplementing DHEA
- How to decipher if DHEA is right for you
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
When it comes to baby-making, there is no definitive way to go about your conception journey. Eastern and Western practices all share one common goal, to help you grow your family. While modern ART has a lot to offer, the success rates and patient experience can be rough. Dr. Lorne Brown and I take today's session to highlight the importance of lifestyle when it comes to fertility and how holistic methods can lend a helping hand.
Many issues of infertility arise when there are lingering health issues in the body that need to be addressed. Be it excess inflammation, hormonal disorders, auto-immune conditions, etc. We discuss what these holistic approaches entail and how a less invasive approach, such as acupuncture or Chinese herbs, may allow the body to heal itself and facilitate a healthy pregnancy naturally without the need for more invasive measures.
Tune in as we are joined by Dr. Lorne Brown, founder of Acubalance Wellness Center and host of the “Conscious Fertility Podcast,” as we discuss various holistic methods for tackling fertility issues, including low-level laser therapy, acupuncture, Chinese herbs and so much more.
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of addressing general health concerns and their impact on your conception efforts
- Various holistic methods for facilitating a healthy pregnancy
- How Eastern and Western practices work together in the fertility realm
You can find Dr. Lorne here:
Website: https://acubalance.ca/
Socials: @acubalancewellnesscentre + @conscious_fertility_podcast
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
It is no secret that this journey can be mentally, physically and emotionally taxing. It can be difficult to know how to best manage the uncertainty. Add to it the current state of the world and two years of pandemic PTSD, we have more people taking antidepressants than ever before. Less talked about are the physiological reasons that you might be having trouble with your mind. In today's episode, we dive into what might be happening behind the scenes, while also touching on conventional medications and your reproductive health.
Medications have their place, and we are happy to know they are there for support when needed. That said, there are cases when addressing the underlying cause of suffering can be helpful in more ways than one. From a Naturopathic perspective, the idea is to get to the root causes of depression and anxiety. I'll break down some of the physiological causes of mental health troubles, be it hormones, nutrient deficiencies or immune issues. And of course, the fertility-friendly tips to help foster healing on every level.
As always my mission is to give you the tools you need to make strides toward finding balance. Tune into today’s episode to get the scoop on the questions to ask yourself that your SSRI treatment isn’t!
You’ll Learn:
- The effects of antidepressants on reproductive health
- Fertility-friendly hacks to improve your mental health
- The connection between physiology and mental health
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
It is no secret that fertility struggles can feel incredibly isolating. Ali Prato, co-founder of Fertility Rally and host of the Infertile AF Podcast, joins us to talk about her journey and the importance of finding community.
Ali shares her experience with secondary infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, which led her to form a community resource for women currently in the trenches. We talk about the difficulties that arise with our partners not being able to meet our emotional needs and the impact on us and the relationship.
What makes this journey bearable is often who you share with to help you persevere. Join us to talk about how to find support and connection to get you through this.
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of community building
- How to navigate your relationships during this journey
- How to start the conversation
Don’t forget to head over to Facebook and join the Fertility In Focus Podcast group here!
Where you can find Ali:
Instagram: @infertileafstories @fertilityrally
Website: www.fertilityrally.com
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
The immune system is becoming a hot topic in the fertility landscape. Some doctors are recommending immune-suppressing medications such as prednisone and antihistamines to facilitate successful implantation. It isn’t common for conventional doctors to take this approach. In fact, most think it’s very unnecessary. Yet some centers embrace it and there is a lot of buzz in fertility chat rooms and FB groups online.
In this session, we explore the rationale behind this protocol to help you get in the know. Central to the discussion is what is happening with our immune systems in this day and age that may be affecting our conception efforts.
Immune responses can have a lot of manifestations. If you find yourself experiencing allergies, frequent headaches, abnormal menstrual cycles, bouts of anxiety, a runny nose while eating certain foods, you may be experiencing a recurrent histamine response. If symptoms are more severe, it could be mast cell activation.
Now that we are in the midst of allergy season, there is no better time to touch on how your immune responses can impact your entire world, fertility included. I’ll give you the goods on how to eat and live to tame histamine and restore balance.
Tune into today's session to get the scoop on all things immunity protocols and find out if this method is right for you.
You’ll Learn:
- What the “mini-immune protocol” is and what it is good for
- How to identify histamine responses in the body
- The do’s and don’t if experiencing high levels of inflammation and histamine responses in the body
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Fertility struggles are hard. It can feel like our body is betraying us or that the “god” or the “universe” doesn’t really have our back. One of the most traumatizing things to go through is to miscarry. It’s an experience that can steal the joy from the process of baby-making, leaving us with a deep sense of mistrust and fear.
There is no iron clad “solution” to addressing miscarriage but understanding the potential causes can help with peace of mind. Better yet are strategies to recover emotionally and hormonally in order to move forward with confidence.
Join me for this episode to help you gain perspective and take your power back on your quest for a baby.
Bonus: Herbs mentioned in the podcast are Sheng Hua Tang & Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
You’ll Learn:
- Common causes of miscarriage
- Ways to recover miscarriage via nutrition and herbal medicine
- Gaining the confidence try again
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode is a spotlight on a hot topic. Weight management is one of the most heavily discussed health issues across the world and with good reason. With such an abundance of information on the internet, it can be especially difficult to separate fact from fiction, especially in cases of how it relates to fertility.
In this session, I’ll walk you through why it may be difficult for you to lose or maintain a healthy weight. Fertility treatment doesn’t help, btw, but I think you already know that.
Though you may at times be hard on yourself, there are many cases where it’s really not your fault. You do, however, have options. From underlying issues such as hormones or gut imbalance, thyroid dysfunction, insulin resistance, inflammation, or stress, there are lifestyle approaches to help you get your body back and get you your baby.
Tune in to get the scoop on all things weight management and how you can achieve baby making success via lifestyle change. .
Don’t forget to keep up to date on all things Fertility in Focus by joining our free facebook group here!
You’ll Learn:
- Weight managements relation to fertility
- Root causes of weight gain
- Lifestyle changes you can implement in order to overcome your struggle with your weight.
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
It is no secret that fertility takes two, but it is very rare to see the focus shift from women to men. Although most of what surrounds the topic of reproductive health and infertility centers around women's bodies, there are still ways that the man in your life can take some ownership in the process. Today’s episode is dedicated to some simple things he can add to his routine to increase your odds of baby-making success.
You may be wondering why your fertility doc doesn’t seem to be concerned with his sperm. That’s because of a nifty invention called ICSI, which is used to select sperm and inject it right into the egg. It’s also that modern technology doesn’t seem to be able to tell if sperm is playing a role in failed attempts to pregnancy. Looking at an embryo, they just can’t tell. Lots of mystery to baby-making, even with all the advances.
Tune in to hear what is happening in the landscape of fertility, and why we shouldn’t neglect the male role in fertility challenges. We highlight certain situations in which it is appropriate to look at sperm quality and how it can be done using methods such as DNA fragmentation. However, much of the process involves implementing some lifestyle changes. From supplements such as NAC and Omega to various Chinese herbal formulas, there are countless methods in which your partner can optimize their health to increase your chances of conception.
Tune into today’s episode and get the scoop on all things male fertility.
You’ll Learn:
- Why his participation matters
- Supplements and herbs to enhance male fertility
- Why lifestyle plays a significant role in sperm quality
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Ever notice how there can be an abundance of birthdays some months, while others far fewer? As it turns out, we are much more connected to nature than many of us think! Human reproduction can follow seasonal trends, much like those of animals. Fertility may actually change throughout the year, as an endogenous biological phenomenon, making people more likely to conceive at certain times.
Research shows that the seasonality of births correlates with changes in local temperature and day length. Birth rates peak occurring earlier in the year the further north you get from the equator. Why might this be? Sunlight definitely plays a significant role. Studies found that better weather leading up to an IVF cycle leads to more live births. But there’s more to it than that of course!
Tune in to this week’s episode to learn a nature-focused approach to get conceive.
You’ll Learn:
- The correlation between seasonal change and fertility
- How to optimize natural fertility and IVF
- Research linking weather to reproductive outcomes
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Did you see the news about how sugar alcohols are causing blood clots? Makes sense that it wouldn’t be good for fertility, right? Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) elicit a multitude of hormonal effects in animals and humans. The best-characterized consequences are metabolic changes, which may be mediated by activation of sweet taste receptors in oral and extraoral tissues (e.g., intestine, pancreatic β cells, and brain), and alterations of the gut microbiome. And these days, they are in EVERYTHING.
Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) have grown in popularity over the years as a result of keto and diet culture. Contrary to popular belief, artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, aspartame, erythritol, maltitol, stevia, etc are not physiologically inert substances. Though popular culture would have us believe that since they count as ZERO sugar and calories on the nutritional label. You know how the old saying goes - If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. These naughty sweeteners have been shown to impact energy, metabolic function, hormone secretion, cognitive processes (e.g. reward learning, memory, and taste perception), and gut microbiota. Scary!
We discuss the research in animal and human models demonstrating the effects on our bodies and those of our offspring. Hint - metabolic dysregulations (eg, elevated body mass index, increased risk of obesity, microbiome dysbiosis, and abnormal liver function tests) for generations AFTER we’ve consumed them.
Join us as we give you the scoop on all things non-nutritive sweeteners and why it is important to not over-consume them, if at all.
You’ll Learn:
- What they are and what they do in your body
- How artificial sweeteners can affect your reproductive health
- Research to support its damaging effects on our general health
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode is an herbal spotlight on Vitex agnus castus, otherwise known as chasteberry. This herb has been known to treat hormonal imbalances in women for centuries. Through its action on the pituitary gland, chaste tree increases progesterone production via an increase in luteinizing hormone. This herb is useful for fibroids, high prolactin, premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis and perimenopausal times of increased estrogen. It's amazing for estrogen dominance, low progesterone and consequently fabulous for bad PMS. Interestingly, it can also increase breastmilk postpartum.
What makes this herb so special is the larger body of research to support its use in the treatment of gynecologic conditions. Not to mention, it is a fertility powerhouse. Research suggests that it can possibly increase the chances of pregnancy by 30-50% after 3-6 months of usage.
Join us as we give you the scoop on all things chasteberry and its benefits for various gynecological and hormonal conditions.
You’ll Learn:
- What the research says
- What it is used for
- Who can benefit and why
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode is a controversial yet critical conversation in the realm of general and reproductive health. The landscape of fertility is changing for a multitude of reasons, but the effects of the pandemic may also be starting to emerge. Be it an increase in menstrual irregularities, failed implantation, infertility of unknown causes, sperm quality or premature ovarian aging, fertility clinics are seeming busier than ever.
Covid isn't the only thing to blame, as there is a LOT going on, but it may be playing a role. The coronavirus invades the target cell by binding to ACE2, which is widely expressed in the ovaries, vagina and placenta. ACE2 is responsible for regulating follicular development and ovulation, which has the ability to affect the quality of our embryos. However, it is most notably known for causing long-lasting inflammation.
But it's not all doom and gloom. My mission is to educate and empower. This podcast was created to shine some light and give direction. Join us to get the scoop on all things Covid-19 and tips on how to overcome its effects.
You’ll Learn:
- How covid-19 can affect fertility
- The effects of long-lasting inflammation
- General health guidelines
- Tips for recovering from Covid-19
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Fertility treatment can be topsy-turvy. Many women do not get the desired results and end up doing multiple cycles of IVF in hopes of a better outcome. If you are curious about what adjuvant therapies you could explore to up your odds, today’s session may be of interest. Dr. Jesse Hade from Generation Next Fertility center in NYC joins us to explore the topic of platelet-rich plasma, otherwise known as PRP therapy.
Contrary to popular belief, platelets are responsible for much more than promoting the clotting capability of blood. This technique, dating back to the 70’s, can be used as an adjuvant therapy for patients undergoing IVF treatments. Today, we see both ovarian and uterus PRP testing taking place in clinics all across the country as resuscitative measures for women who struggle with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) or poor ovarian response (POR). Dr. Hade gives us the scoop on who it's for and what to expect.
Tune in to discover the ways in which ovarian PRP can be a useful tool for your fertility journey
You’ll Learn:
- What is it
- Who is it for
- Pros and Cons
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
In today’s session, we are giving you the scoop on one of our favorite eastern medicine gems, moxibustion. This practice has been around for thousands of years, predating many eastern practices. It can be thought of as an herbal cigar that you burn in close proximity to acupuncture points on the body.
This is something that can be done independently from acupuncture, but studies have shown the two work synergistically to produce the most successful results as opposed to stand-alone treatments. We touch on the various benefits of moxibustion for general health such as its ability to treat the immune system, improve auto-immune conditions, relieve pain and fight fatigue.
From a fertility standpoint, moxibustion is shown to improve sperm quality, boost libido, thicken uterine lining, treat premature ovarian insufficiency and premature ovarian failure. Studies have shown that acupuncture and moxa in combination can increase your chances of conception by 37%. Perhaps the most interesting benefit is the herb's ability to turn breech babies. The best part? You can do this at home!
Tune in to today’s episode for a look into this magical therapy and how you can use it to harmonize your hormones and improve your chances of conception.
You’ll Learn:
- Benefits of moxibustion
- How and when to use moxibustion
- Studies supporting acupuncture in combination with moxibustion
- How moxibustion is beneficial in the realm of fertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage is rampant. And unfortunately, most patients are left without answers or direction. In today’s episode, I interview Dr. Harvey Kliman MD, PhD, creator of the EFT test, otherwise known as the Endometrial Function Test.
He walks us through what endometrial factors can work for or against us. Including but not limited to obscure infections, inflammation, endometriosis, timing of transfer, and dosages of hormones.
The episode begins with an in-depth discussion of complex interplay between hormones and uterine receptivity, followed by the goods on the EFT. He also compares the other tests available for endometrial issues - the ERA and Receptiva and gives a candid and informed viewpoint on their efficacy.
You’ll Learn:
- The complexities of the endometrium
- Estrogen and progesterone’s effect on the endometrium and its connection to failed implantation
- other factors that cause infertility
- What the EFT test is and why it is helpful
- The difference between the ERA, Receptiva and the EFT testing procedures
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Fertility over 40 is its own animal. There are special considerations for women in this age category as it pertains to both conventional and alternative fields of medicine.
Dr. Edward Nejat, co-founder of Generation Next Fertility in NYC, joins us to discuss the nuances of IVF over 40 as well as his insights on a patient-centered and holistic approach to fertility care. Throughout this session, we stress the importance of doctor/patient relationships and how essential they can be for successful outcomes.
We touch on technical aspects such as minimal stim versus conventional medication protocols, zymot, PICSI, and how holistic medicine can improve IVF outcomes. Tune in to hear Dr. Edward Nejat's valuable perspective on IVF and upping your odds of success in your 40s.
You’ll Learn:
- Why doctor/patient relationship is so important
- What factors are considered throughout an IVF cycle
- The special considerations for women over 40
- What women over 40 can do to improve their odds of success
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
In today’s episode, we give you the scoop on the buzz around keto vs. paleo diets. I’m sure that by now you have heard the term keto or paleo floating around, especially in the fitness industry. More recently there have been some doctors recommending a keto approach to improve fertility.
Wondering if it might be for you? That’s what we are going to tackle in today's session. We will dive into what each entails and what effect they have on the body.
Both diets cut out refined carbohydrates and sugars. But there is more to it. Keto is much more specific whereas paleo is more of a lifestyle change, making it more sustainable long term.
Most of the research is around weight loss and how that can help fertility and lower inflammation. Studies show that it can lower insulin levels, regulate ovulation and menstruation, and be helpful in cases of overweight women with PCOS.
However, like any diet, there are pros and cons. Tune in today to figure out if this route is for you.
You’ll Learn:
- What these two diets are and their benefits/downsides
- Specific macros associated with the Keto diet
- When to consider paleo vs. when to consider keto
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
This episode of Fertility in Focus is a glimpse into the true experience of a fertility patient. Author of "The Trying Game" and New York Times "Fertility Diary", joins us to talk about what she faced socially and emotionally throughout her fertility journey, with pearls of wisdom on how to handle everything from baby showers, to unsupportive husbands or pestering mother in laws.
We also dig into tips on finding the right doctor and how to get the most out of your fertility treatments.
Despite the abundance of information available today, it is still fairly difficult to gain access to the resources you need in order to prepare yourself for what lies ahead. Sadly there is no one size fits all approach, nor is there a "how-to guide" to help you tackle all issues that may arise along the path to baby. Amy Klein hoped to address this with her informative and engaging book.
You can find her book, The Trying Game, here: www.prh.com/tryinggame
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of establishing boundaries on your fertility journey
- Insights on the social aspect of infertility
- Recurrent miscarriage
- How to choose a doctor/center
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s session is all about a little pearl from the east, Rehmannia. This powerhouse of an herb has tremendous benefits for rejuvenating and revitalizing your entire world with a special affinity for hormones and the reproduction system. Its less talked about as a stand-alone herb because it is generally found in many of eastern medicine's most powerful fertility herbal blends.
What is so special about this herb is its ability to work wonders in cases of iron deficiency, enhance ovarian function, provide strong antioxidant and antiaging effects and facilitate implantation. I LOVE THIS HERB. I can honestly say that it is the most powerful fertility herb in my arsenal, which is why I include it in so many of my formulas to date.
Rehmannia is dark in color and incredibly nutritive, which allows it to nourish the body on a much deeper level than some of the other herbs we have discussed in the past. The two types of Rehmannia, young and honey fried, are best categorized by their abilities to improve skin disorders, anemia, infertility, menopausal symptoms and adrenal fatigue.
The catch? This amazing herb can be hard to digest on its own. The truth is that it works best synergistically with other herbs. If you want to explore this route, I suggest consulting a qualified practitioner and taking it as part of a formula that is perfect for YOU.
Tune into today’s episode to get the scoop on this magical herb as well as some of our favorite herbal combinations for overall wellness
You’ll Learn:
- Benefits of Rehmannia
- Two types of Rehmannia and their functions
- My favorite fertility formulas
Some of my fave formulas with rehmania as the chief herb:
-liu wei di huang wan - POF, POA, poor sperm quality, egg quality issues
-zhi bai di huang wan - menopause, advanced maternal age, hot flashes, vaginal dryness
-gui shao di huang wan - powerhouse all around fertility formula, pcos, amenorrhea
-nu ke ba zhen tang - powerhouse fertility formula, failed implantation, chemical pregnancy, miscarriage
-xue fu zhu yu tang - endometriosis
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode is a spotlight on a sensitive yet crucial topic, weight management. The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide and with that more overweight men and women with fertility challenges. Your fertility doctor may have neglected to bring it up, but studies reveal excess weight can be linked to issues with eggs, sperm, ovulation and more.
Really what it comes down to is being educated on the benefits of weight reduction in the improvement of pregnancy rates. A combination of a reduced calorie diet, reducing fat and refined carbohydrate intake, and increasing exercise have shown to be beneficial on your path to baby. Even a slight reduction in weight can help reduce inflammation, balance insulin and blood sugar, regulate ovulation and quicken the path to pregnancy. One study showed it helps fertility drugs work better!
Studies support that overweight and obese women with preexisting conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may have a greater chance of becoming pregnant if they lose weight before beginning fertility treatment. And it’s of great benefit for many women with estrogen-sensitive conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. Not to mention that it’s likely implicated in many cases of the dreaded unexplained infertility.
Tune into today's episode to get the scoop on all things weight management and its connection to fertility success.
You’ll Learn:
- The correlation between obesity and fertility
- The importance of clean living for optimal fertility
- Why weight loss can improve fertility success
- Tips and tricks to transform your lifestyle
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
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Today’s episode is a spotlight on the power of selenium. This essential mineral plays a vital role in hormone balance, thyroid health, egg and sperm quality. We lose minerals constantly through our monthly flow, poor food quality and medications (ie. birth control pills).
Most research available suggests that selenium is very beneficial for male fertility, but we are now seeing some studies suggest that it may be helpful for women as well. Newer studies suggest that it can help preserve or improve egg quality and quantity due to its antioxidant properties.
I often prescribe selenium in cases of thyroid dysfunction, so I tend to think there is a pattern when it comes to infertility and subclinical thyroid disorders. Adequate levels of selenium may also improve fertility in cases of ovulatory dysfunction as well as prevent miscarriages
How much is the sweet spot? Tune into today's episode to get the scoop on selenium and how it can improve your conception efforts.
You’ll Learn:
- Why Selenium can help in your conception efforts
- Research that suggests how selenium is helpful in cases of both male and female fertility
- How selenium helps in cases of thyroid dysfunction
- Proper dosages of selenium - what is too little or too much
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode is a mash-up of a very popular episode featuring Dr. Eric Forman REI and some strategies to optimize egg quality. Dr. Forman gives us insight into the nuances of egg and embryo quality, and how they determine what makes a viable egg and embryo for fertilization. The episode then covers what outside factors may adversely affect egg quality and what to do about it.
Some of us have biological clocks that are ticking faster than others. Your egg quality may determine how well you'll respond to IVF treatment, as well as hardships on a natural path to conception. But finding the root cause can be difficult.
Is there a way to improve egg quality? From what I've seen clinically, I certainly believe there is! And often it's simple tweaks to your day-to-day. There is only so much we can do to the clock but in this session, we explore how lowering inflammation, and toxins and resetting other lifestyle factors can boost the chances of healthy conception.
You’ll Learn:
- How to determine egg quality
- IVF, natural conception and egg quality issues
- How certain toxin exposures can contribute impact egg & embryo quality
- Other factors that contribute to the quality of an embryo
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s topic is all about finding your inner chill in a time of uncertainty. We know this sounds impossible, but I’d like to introduce you to some hacks to help you through this difficult time. Sadly there is a link between stress and infertility but it goes without saying that the last thing you need to hear is the phrase “calm down, don’t stress”.
This episode is not about telling you not to stress, but instead providing you with the fertility-friendly tools you need to manage it. Certain feelings in your fertility journey are inevitable, but by taking these extra steps, you can reduce the impact of stress on your baby-making efforts.
In my experience, one of the most effective ways of managing stress and anxiety is through the use of herbs, which are game-changers for regulating mood and boosting fertility. Besides magical herbs, some supplements can be helpful in reducing anxiety and possibly improving egg quality.
However, I cannot stress the importance of lifestyle changes enough. Most contributors to stress are within our control.
Join us for today's episode as we give you all the stress-reducing tips you need to succeed on your fertility journey.
You’ll Learn:
- The link between stress and fertility
- Fertility-friendly hacks to help you manage stress
- Herbal & supplement recommendations for reducing stress
- The importance of lifestyle changes in your baby-making efforts
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is.
This week's episode gives you the scoop on all things clean beauty. When it comes to fertility, there are beauty regimes that can either help or hinder your baby-making efforts. We know that toxins can wreak absolute havoc on your fertility. But I also get that you are not willing to give up on your looks, even if you are aware that certain ingredients aren't so great for reproductive health.
Maybe you are turning a blind eye, telling yourself it ain't that bad. There are worse things. Right?? But chemicals and toxins are a major player in diminished ovarian reserve, poor egg quality, endometriosis, autoimmune infertility and more. But there is good news - you don't have to give up on your face to make a baby! You might just need a little shift in routine.
Today, we are zeroing in on beauty products and how they can pose a threat to reproductive health via absorption through the skin. Anything from body wash to lotions or even cosmetic procedures, the products we use can have a detrimental effect on fertility.
Tune into today's episode as we are joined by holistic beauty expert, Angelique Trabal, as we discuss safer methods of altering your appearance and improving your complexion.
You’ll Learn:
- How certain household and beauty products can affect our general health and welfare
- The importance of improving beauty from the inside out using diet and lifestyle choices
- Alternatives to harsh cosmetic procedures, such as botox
- The dangers of certain western medications used to improve complexion
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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In today's episode, we will be talking about all things gestational carriers. You may be wondering what makes a gestational carrier different from a traditional surrogate? A gestational carrier refers to a woman who has another woman's fertilized egg (embryo) implanted into her uterus. So, the gestational carrier is having a child on behalf of the intended parents, as opposed to a traditional surrogate, who shares a genetic link to the child. In that situation, the surrogate's eggs are used and fertilized by the male of the intended parents and she also carries the pregnancy.
Definitions aside, hiring a gestational carrier is a lesser talked about path to parenthood, making it feel more difficult and taboo than it needs to be.
Today's amazing guest, Alex Das-Aldridge, walks us through her journey to motherhood via gestational carrier. From choosing an agency and a gestational carrier to the process of drawing up important legal documentation. Alex gives us the goods on what you need to know to help you prepare and thrive through the process.
Tune in to today’s episode as Alex joins us in discussing her journey, which led to the birth of her 6-month-old twins.
You’ll Learn:
- The emotional and logistic components of the process
- The ins and outs of working with an agency and what they provide during the process
- The selection process of choosing a gestational carrier and what to expect along the way
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Adaptogens are all the rage these days and with good reason. That’s why today’s herbal spotlight is Maca. I have been using maca in my practice forever and I absolutely love it. Experimental scientific evidence shows that Maca has a multitude of medicinal benefits including nutritional, energizer and fertility-enhancing properties. Maca is incredible for your sex drive given its potent aphrodisiac effects. It is no secret that the path to baby can be a stressful one and sometimes our level of “desire” can start to rank. This is where Maca comes in.
This plant is shown to have a significant impact on the sex drive of both women and men. However, not in the way one may think. It is incredibly neuroprotective. Studies have shown that Maca has a direct link to emotional health, particularly depression. Maca is known for having a very powerful effect on the hormonal system via the brain. It can also be amazing to regulate the menstrual cycle and restore hormonal balance in PCOS. Not to mention smooth the ups and downs of perimenopause and menopause. Last but not least, Maca is a powerhouse for sperm health and works quickly in this regard. It is important to note that there are various types of maca and knowing how to distinguish the different benefits between them is the key to success
Join us to discover all the ways in which this powerhouse of a plant helps to improve sex drive among all of its other tremendous benefits.
You’ll Learn:
- The rave about adaptogens
- Maca’s multi-medicinal properties
- The various types of Maca and their benefits
- How Maca enhances sex drive and libido in both men and women
- Maca’s powerful effect on the hormonal system via its neuroprotective qualities
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Today’s episode of Fertility in Focus is a remix of an oldie but a goodie. It's also very timely given the aftermath of Halloween.My session on Myo-inositol, got so many listens, that it's worth bringing it back in case you missed it or needed a refresher. This all-star supplement boosts ovarian and hormonal health, with a special focus on blood sugar and insulin regulation.
It's known as the vitamin alternative to metformin, a diabetic drug often used to treat fertility for those who struggle with their weight or have irregular cycles. Its particularly known for its positive effects in treating PCOS, though metformin may also assist with egg quality in women over 40.
Want to know if this is a fit for you? Tune into this episode to get intel on the finer details of how "nature's metformin" helps improve hormone health, moods, fertility and IVF success.
You’ll Learn:
- The benefits of Myo-inositol
- Research supporting Myo-Inositol’s success in treating PCOS and insulin resistance
- How to recognize the symptoms of PCOS & Insulin resistance
- Do’s & don’ts of shopping for supplements
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
Endometriosis is a complex hormonal-dependent disease that can wreak havoc on your fertility. It's typically associated with painful periods, but in some cases, it can spread quietly. The cause of endometriosis is still fairly unknown, which makes finding a concrete way to treat it difficult. What we do know is that hormones (estrogen) can make it spread, and inflammation is a key factor. Laparoscopic surgery is the only known tool to accurately diagnose endo but this procedure can be very invasive and can pose delays in fertility efforts.
Since options are lacking on the western medicine side, it makes good sense to explore what alternative methods can offer. Research in the field of eastern medicine has shown that endometriosis, like many other gynecological disorders, responds very well to traditional Chinese medicine and herbs. In a systematic review of 51 randomized control trials, one single blend of herbs (aka. a "formula") was found to lower inflammation, prevent and reverse the spread of endometriosis, heal endo lesions and relieve pain up to 95%.
Join us as we discuss all the ways in which TCM and Chinese herbs can make life-changing differences for those dealing with endometriosis.
You’ll Learn:
- The definition of Endometirsosis and the difficult road to diagnosis
- The reality of western medical treatment
- The shortcomings of hormonal therapy in Western medicine.
- Research studies that support treatment using TCM and herbs
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
The path to conception can be an overwhelming one. With an abundance of information at our fingertips, it is hard to know how to separate fact from fiction. It is no secret that there is a disconnect in our education system surrounding sex-ed and female anatomy, which leads to a lack of understanding when it comes to our cycles and hormonal rhythms. It also sends us running to the fertility doctor for entry-level stuff when there is likely a way to sort things out, naturally. Fertility clinics can be an amazing ally in the quest for a baby BUT they often stay in their lane, leaving you without understanding that there are alternative options.
This is why online tools, such as Rescripted, are so helpful for women and couples to expand their knowledge and regain more control over a situation that feels so out of reach. From virtual support groups to informational forums and organizational tools recommendations, Rescripted has something to offer everyone at various stages in their conception.
Join Kristyn Hodgson and I as we discuss her fertility journey and how it inspired her to start Rescripted and the benefits of having online forums such as this one to support you on your own journey.
https://rescripted.com
You’ll Learn:
- The abundance of information surrounding conception and fertility available through various online forums, like Rescripted.
- The importance of improving education surrounding the understanding of female anatomy - cycle tracking & ovulation
- The importance of clean brands and detoxifying your environments to support a healthy conception
- The lack of knowledge surrounding the options for treating infertility from a natural Eastern medicine perspective
- Holistic supplements and herbal formulas to support conception and those struggling with PCOS
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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PCOS is rampant, affecting 5 million or more women in the US alone. Stats worldwide range from 8%-21% of women. PCOS is the culprit for over 80% of anovulatory infertility. That is significant! Yet is also one of the most underdiagnosed hormonal disorders to date. PCOS is a "spectrum" disorder, which means it can have a range of symptoms that may or may not be present at any given time. There are also "types" of PCOS, adding to the confusion.
The first step to understanding a bit more about PCOS is addressing some of the most common misconceptions. Some examples include thinking that there is no “cure” to PCOS, or that metformin is the only option before turning to fertility drugs. Worst of all, the notion that you are infertile because you have PCOS is utter nonsense. In reality, PCOS responds extremely well to a more holistic lifestyle approach rooted in nutrition, mindfulness, supplements and herbs.
Join Dr. Potter and I for a lively discussion on the misconceptions surrounding PCOS.
https://www.drangelapotter.com/
You’ll Learn:
- The three most common misconceptions of PCOS
- Issues surrounding the western medicine perspective of PCOS
- Systemic issues involved in diagnosing PCOS and shifting diagnostic criteria
- The various types of PCOS
- Favorite strategies for combating PCOS
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Just when you thought topics couldn’t get more obscure! You may think it is far-fetched to say there is a connection between oral hygiene and fertility, but think again! Studies have shown that poor oral hygiene has been linked to fertility issues in both men and women and the root cause is almost always the same - inflammation. In this case, rooted in the proliferation of bad bacteria.
Without good oral hygiene practices, we get a build-up of bacteria. It spreads to various parts of the body causing systemic inflammation to occur. This inflammation leads to fertility issues in both men and women alike as it can creep to a cellular level. Think sperm issues, egg quality challenges, miscarriage, autoimmune infertility and more. And issues don’t stop there. Even after conception, during pregnancy, poor oral health islinked to gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm labor and low birth weight.
But this podcast isn’t all about visiting the dentist. In this session, I aim to teach you how to foster the health of gums and teeth, without having to blast your mouth with fluoride and chemicals.
Join me to learn about the ways in which you can avoid dental trouble. Hint: My answer might surprise you!
You’ll Learn:
- The ways in which poor oral hygiene can cause systemic inflammation
- The research on how it can affect your ability to conceive
- The dangers of the chemicals introduced in dental offices
- How to avoid dental health-related issues with lifestyle changes
- Do’s and Don’t of dental hygiene products
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Vitamin B-6 is an amazing vitamin that has the power to improve your chances of conceiving and so much more. B6 deficiency is one of the most common deficiencies among women that wreaks hormonal havoc, so it definitely deserves some attention.
I’m zooming in on vitamin B-6 in today’s episode and giving you the skinny on its role in hormonal balance, what research tells us about it, and how you can get more of it in your diet. Teaser - a deficiency can lead to terrible PMS and inadvertently affect egg quality and implantation. It just goes to show the true potential of nutrition to impact our health and how you can harness that power to boost your fertility.
Join me to learn more about this incredible vitamin, how to tell if you need to focus on consuming it, and more!
You’ll Learn:
- Vitamin B-6's role in the body
- How it can affect your estrogen-progesterone balance
- The research on what B-6 can improve
- What foods to eat to get more B-6
- How and when to supplement it
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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PCOS is perhaps the most common cause of subfertility, yet many don’t know they have it. On the other hand for those who know you have PCOS, you know how much of a disaster it can be. I’m a PCOS mama myself. But the truth is, it’s actually one of the best fertility problems to have because it’s highly treatable and easy to control with the right lifestyle habits and supplements.
Nutrition and natural medicine is always the best place to start when you’re trying to get your PCOS under control. In today’s episode, I’m turning the spotlight to my favorite supplements for PCOS, including myoinositol, Vitamin D, magnesium, and herbal formulas. I also cover exactly what PCOS is, how it wreaks havoc in your body, and why these supplements can help. Teaser - they deal with insulin resistance and reduce inflammation.
You still have control over your fertile destiny even when you have PCOS. It can act as an amazing invitation to clean up your lifestyle and get to know your body and what’s best for it.
You’ll Learn:
- What PCOS is
- How insulin resistance and inflammation are connected
- Why it’s so important to keep PCOS under control
- Which supplements and herbs are best for PCOS
- How to take control of your fertile destiny
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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If you have been at “trying” for a while then you know that the fertility journey can be grueling. You also may have thought that IVF was going to be a quick win. Many believe that handing your reproductive destiny over to science would solve the issue faster. It can be disheartening and quite frankly very scary when you find out that it isn’t as easy as you thought. But persistence can pay off. A large study by the Journal of the American Medical Association has found that nearly two-thirds of women undergoing I.V.F. will have a child if they just kept going.
In today’s episode, I offer a few tips for pushing through from cycle to cycle, including how to assemble your dream team, take care of yourself, and draw value from each cycle. It may seem impossible, given the stress but it's in adversity that we transform. You can continue to learn and grow to evolve into a more balanced mom to be - mentally, physically and spiritually. Join me for an important lesson on persistence and trusting yourself.
You’ll Learn:
- The average number of cycles it takes to conceive
- Who should be on your dream fertility team
- How to take care of yourself
- Ways to learn and grow through the process
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Is modern medicine missing the point? You may feel that way if you are hitting walls despite having access to advanced fertility treatment and an amazing doctor. Perhaps you have the inclination to see more doctors. What if it isn’t the doctor, but rather the fact that the medical approach isn’t taking into account all the little things that can make a difference.
Holistic medicine views the body and mind as a whole, interconnected system. The western scientific paradigm breaks the body down into parts and focuses on each part separately. Each has their advantages and drawbacks. You might be happy to hear that there is something in between. Integrative medicine also embodies a holistic perspective, seeing the patient as a whole person, instead of a set of symptoms.
Dr. Gabriella Safdieh, Integrative MedicineMD, joins us today to share her wealth of expertise in women’s health. We talk about why seeking the root cause underneath the symptoms is so important and why modern medicine hasn’t caught up.
If you’re looking for a more holistic approach to your medical care, integrative medicine may be for you. Tune in today to discover the power of incorporating lifestyle factors into a treatment plan, and how integrative medicine can help your fertility journey.
You’ll Learn:
- What integrative medicine and how it’s different
- What to expect when you visit an integrative medicine practitioner
- The types of testing integrative medicine offers
- The importance of including lifestyle factors in treatment
- How integrative medicine can help with infertility
Links:
Dr. Gabriella Safdieh Website: www.nabellahealth.com
Instagram: @gabysafdiehmd
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Nature gives us many gifts. Many of which have incredible health benefits. Some have hit the mainstream, while others seem like a well kept secret. Natural fertility aids can come from surprising sources. In today’s episode, we’ll explore the lesser-known magic of royal jelly, an apiary product secreted by young worker bees.
Its health-promoting properties abound, including antioxidant activity, anti-tumor effects, cholesterol-lowering qualities, and improvement of menopause symptoms.
Early research shows promising effects of royal jelly for fertility. It’s been shown to increase healthy levels of progesterone and estrogen in females and testosterone in males. It also helps boost egg and sperm quality, and can even improve the success rates of IVF. Particularly for women with low ovarian reserve or advanced maternal age.
Join me to discover the magic of royal jelly, how to use it, and why you shouldn’t skip this miraculous natural product.
You’ll Learn:
- What royal jelly is and where it comes from
- The benefits and properties of royal jelly
- How royal jelly can help with fertility
- Other conditions that can benefit from royal jelly
- The best way to incorporate royal jelly into your daily routine
Modern medical practice doesn’t give a lot of credence to our day-to-day habits. Rarely does a gynecologist or fertility doctor ask us how we are sleeping or what we are eating. They don’t have time. And really their education and training is on medication protocols and procedures. But what if it mattered more than you think? In fact, it’s proven that our daily routine affects our fertility. We jump straight into IVF for unexplained fertility challenges without stopping to think about or attend to the basic things in our life. No shortcuts ladies. Often the answer lies in tiny habits of our everyday life.
Certain lifestyle factors can have a huge impact on ability to conceive. Point blank.
If you’re underweight or overweight, follow a poor diet, smoke, drink too much, abstain from physical activity or overexert, you could be impacting your fertility in a negative way.
And don’t forget to sleep! A good night if Zzzz’s is crucial for proper hormonal signaling, not to mention controlling inflammation and cravings.
According to a study by the CDC, one third of all Americans suffer from a chronic lack of sufficient sleep. I know my New York clientele regularly sacrifice sleep in the name of productivity. But chronic loss of sleep is connected more to the stress and anxiety you’re experiencing in your life than anything else.
If you feel like the quality of your sleep is outside your control, let's chat about it. There are things you can do. If you are just choosing to not prioritize sleep–I suggest you start doing so to improve your odds of conception.
We know that sleep habits can alter circadian rhythms, hormone secretions, and menstrual cycles. But it goes beyond that.
Both men and women experience lowered fertility when they are sleep deprived. Even just a few nights of not getting the proper rest can interfere with hormone production and stress response.
Beware: too much sleep is also not ideal. People who sleep too long actually have poorer IVF outcomes than those who sleep too little. Go figure?!
Optimizing your habits to get better sleep can work wonders for your chances of conceiving. Tune in to get the scoop on how much sleep is the sweet spot for fertility.
You’ll Learn:
- The importance of sleep in fertility
- How stress and anxiety cause chronic sleep loss
- The impact of poor-quality sleep on your chance of conceiving
- Chronic conditions linked to insufficient sleep
- How sleeping TOO much can lower your fertility rates
- Ways to optimize your sleeping habits
Need more guidance?
Feel free to contact us at the Naturna Institute. Email us at info@naturnalife.com or send me DM on Instagram @drchristinaburns/@naturna_life
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Meet your tasty new fertility treat: goji berries! This incredible superfood has ancient origins with modern research to back it. It is famous for its antioxidant and anti-aging properties - which can be a great help to your fertility.
In an era of a myriad of unexplained egg quality issues, advanced maternal age and male fertility on the decline, we need all the help we can get!
In this episode, we explore the research on the awe inspiring powers of this magical fruit. We’ll talk about the effects of antioxidants on fertility, how goji berries can reverse the damage to eggs and sperm as well as how to consume them for best effects. .
You’ll Learn:
- The history and usage of goji berries
- How antioxidants can improve your fertility and reverse damage to your reproductive system
- The role of goji berries in male fertility
- How often you should consume goji berries for best results
Donor conception is an emotionally charged topic. While it’s quickly becoming more prevalent in this day and age, it is a very hard place to arrive for those involved. The thing that many don’t consider, however, is that choosing this route can also greatly alleviate the pressure you feel. And is very likely to speed the path to conception. Most important of all, you will love this baby no matter the original source of the DNA.
In this episode, we’re joined by Lori Metz, a therapist specializing in fertility and donor conception. Lori shares her incredible insight and expertise into this topic, and her best recommendations for navigating everything involved in being a parent of a donor child.
Lori is a certified LCSW and psychotherapist with many years of experience in all things fertility. She hosts her own podcast called “LIFE: Love, Insight, Fertility, Experience” as well as a book titled “I Dreamed of You” — the story of an egg donor baby. For more, check out her website lorimetz.net.
You’ll Learn:
- Insights in navigating the donor conception process
- How to navigate raising a child conceived with an egg donor such as when and how to tell them.
I often call PCOS one of the best fertility challenges to have. Why? Because when you finally get a handle on it, you are very likely to make a litter of babies. Not to mention that it responds incredibly well to lifestyle changes and natural medicine. Over the years, I’ve given my PCOS the smack down and have helped hundreds of women do the same. Still, there are millions more worldwide who struggle with the symptoms this condition creates.
PCOS is a spectrum disorder, which means that you can have very few or all of the classic symptoms that characterize it. Think irregular periods, hair loss, abnormal hair growth, acne, trouble controlling your weight, infertility, high egg count, high LH and more….
Whether or not you have a diagnosis, you may be in the up to 20% of women whose fertility challenges are rooted in the hormonal imbalances associated with it.
While western approaches can be helpful, the best outcomes are achieved when lifestyle changes like nutrition, catered supplements and exercise are integrated. Tune in today to get the skinny on how to reverse PCOS and optimize your fertility through lifestyle changes and natural medicine.
You’ll Learn:
- Why PCOS is so underdiagnosed, and why you may have it and not even know it.
- The shocking reason Western medicine fails so often to successfully treat it
- How PCOS is linked to higher insulin levels, which can underpin egg quality issues and cause an increase in miscarriages. Plus, exactly what to do about it.
- The connection between sugar and appetite, and what to do to prevent your food habits from sabotaging your health and fertility goals.
- Snacks you can reach for if you want to shed weight, beat cravings and begin ovulating regularly.
- Why having PCOS can make you more prone to stress, and how to manage it.
I'm happy to announce my new course, Eating for Optimal Fertility has launched! It will help you learn how you can integrate simple changes to your daily food habits to get the results you desire.
In the course I’m going to break down:
1. What to eat and avoid to enhance fertility
2. How to eat in sync with the phases of your cycle
3. How to use nutrition to enhance egg quality and development
4. Food considerations to optimize ovulation and implantation
5. Nutrition to boost IVF success
6. Principles of a fertility cleansing diet to detoxify and reduce inflammation
You get me as your personal guide along this journey - plus a community of people who are wanting the same thing and supporting each other on the path to baby.
CLICK HERE TO BUY THE COURSE NOW!
Need more guidance? Feel free to contact us at the Naturna Institute.
Email us at info@naturnalife.com or send me DM on Instagram
@drchristinaburns/@naturna_life
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Let’s face it: infertility is agonizing. Even if you didn’t experience anxiety prior to this journey, it's highly likely you’ve become acquainted with it now. Your mind darts here and there, anxiously waiting for the news. You can’t help but be attuned to every sensation in your body, trying to assign it meaning. Anxiety could be incredibly useful back when we were cavemen, but in the digital age, it often interferes with our day-to-day lives, impacts our self esteem, relationships, and makes a challenging quest, all the more difficult.
Justine Carino, LMHC, joins us for this episode to help us get at the truth behind anxiety: what’s going on physiologically when it happens, the role trauma plays and how to rise above it.
In this discussion, Justine guides us to an understanding that anxiety is a normal human experience that makes us feel out of control during a stressful process. Her calm and reassuring presence will ground you as she offers actionable tips to help you communicate with your partner, navigate this journey, and get your needs met. Join our discussion and learn how to access peace when you need it most.
You’ll Learn:
- The physiology behind anxiety
- How trauma and anxiety are connected
- What impact anxiety can have on your fertility journey
- How to communicate more effectively with your partner
- How to access peace in a high-stress time
She was told she’d need IVF to conceive, but she wasn’t having it. KJ connected with the idea that her body could figure it out. She just needed the know how.
When dealing with hormone challenges and fertility, our first stop is the doctor. But what if there was another option along the way? If you knew what to do with your nutrition and natural methods, would you trust enough to try that first? If you did, you may be surprised how opting for a lifestyle and naturopathic approach transforms you and your fertility from the inside out.
Balanced hormones, improved egg quality, lowered inflammation and a speedier path to conception are just a few of the potential benefits of taking this alternative route. No one knows that better than Kirsten Jordan, the first-ever female lead on Bravo's Million Dollar Listing New York, Luxury Broker at Douglas Elliman and mother of three. KJ and I have worked together for years to manage her PCOS with natural methods. But it all began with the for her first baby.
In this episode, we talk through how Kirsten make it all happen naturally. It wasn’t for the faint of heart. It took commitment. We talk about how some simple - but essential nutritional changes worked in unison with natural methods like herbs and acupuncture leading to the birth of her 3 healthy, beautiful children.
You’ll learn:
- Different natural methods that can be used to regulate menstrual cycles and help not only with PCOS, but a wide range of fertility issues
- How an anti-inflammatory diet can be used to improve fertility
- How herbal medicine and acupuncture helped boost reproductive function
- How mindset and education are more than half the battle
I'm happy to announce my new course, Eating for Optimal Fertility has finally launched! It will help you learn how you can integrate simple changes to your daily food habits to get the results you desire.
In the course I’m going to break down:
- What to eat and avoid to enhance fertility
- How to eat in sync with the phases of your cycle
- How to use nutrition to enhance egg quality and development
- Food considerations to optimize ovulation and implantation
- Nutrition to boost IVF success
- Principles of a fertility cleansing diet to detoxify and reduce inflammation
And for the next few days only, it comes with a special BONUS module and lowest cost that we will ever have!
You get me as your personal guide along this journey - plus a community of people who are wanting the same thing and supporting each other on the path to baby.
Grab your spot in our course today before the price goes up on Thursday, July 28th.
CLICK HERE TOBUY THE COURSE NOW!
Need more guidance? Feel free to contact us at the Naturna Institute.
Email us at info@naturnalife.com or send me DM on Instagram @drchristinaburns/@naturna_life
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
It’s no secret that Vitamin C is a powerhouse vitamin for the immune system, but you may be surprised by how much it can boost fertility. Evidence is mounting that Vitamin C’s is great for everything from eggs and sperm to boosting progesterone and soothing painful periods.
In this episode, we review those positive effects as I lay out the top 3 reasons why Vit C is beneficial for fertility. We walk through how Vitamin C combats that well-known fertility foe, inflammation, as well as its effects on iron absorption, sperm health, immune strength and more. Lastly, we review excellent food sources of Vitamin C, as well as Vitamin C-rich foods to eat in moderation.
Let’s dive in and look deeper at why you might benefit from additional Vit C by explaining the science behind it, and reviewing the different ways Vitamin C works its magic in your body.
You’ll Learn:
- The overall health benefits of Vitamin C
- Science-backed studies showing how Vitamin C improves fertility in women and men
- How Vitamin C can improve IVF success rates
- Good sources of Vitamin C
Need more guidance? Feel free to contact us at the Naturna Institute. Email us at info@naturnalife.com or send me DM on Instagram @drchristinaburns/@naturna_life
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Link to Webinar: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMsd-GuqjgoGdBo-iec-xlOfG3BdUVRypGN
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
We all know pesticides are less than ideal for our health. But the WHY is something that is less understood. Thanks to abundant research in this area, we are now acutely aware of how everyday pesticides in our food can affect our fertility.
You may think you are eating clean if you buy mostly organic groceries BUT it really depends on how much you are eating out vs. at home. It’s easy to compartmentalize and only focus part of the picture.
In this episode, we review a study about how pesticide residue on fruits and vegetables affects IVF outcomes. Teaser - heavy correlation between high-pesticide fruits and vegetable diets and women being less likely to become pregnant. And it’s not a lot of servings. Shockingly few in fact. Your kale salad might be a foe…. Conversely, women with low levels of pesticide exposure have far fewer complications with pregnancy and IVF procedures. Pesticides mess up normal hormone function and reproductive system regulation - and they can also work as obesogens, promoting obesity and associated comorbidities, like infertility.
In this episode, we look deeper at how female fertility is affected by pesticides, how we can make more pesticide-free choices, how exactly pesticides harm us internally, possible effects of pesticides on the male reproductive system and more.
You’ll Learn:
- Data from studies showing negative effects of pesticides on fertility
- How pesticides disrupt the body beyond fertility-related instances
- The link between high pesticides and failed IVF
- How to avoid high-pesticide foods
Need more guidance? Feel free to contact us at the Naturna Institute. Email us at info@naturnalife.com or send me DM on Instagram @drchristinaburns/@naturna_life
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
What is the best fertility diet? Is it keto, paleo, gluten free? You might be wondering what on earth it has to do with fertility - Think free radical damage, bad eggs, poor circulation, malnutrition and a generally hostile reproductive environment.
In today’s world, we’ve been able to pinpoint more and more how and why certain foods affect gut health and fertility. Lectins are sticky proteins that bind to glucose molecules, and when ingested too much, can have negative impacts. In fact, one of the reasons why the keto diet is so popular these days is because lectins are highly responsible for a lot of inflammatory responses. If you find yourself frequently bloated, you are likely reacting to lectins daily.
Found in a variety of food families (and GMO crops), lectins can bind to the intestinal lining and cause inflammation, leaky gut, and chronic autoimmune disorders. This can lead to irregular periods, poor egg quality, and inflammatory conditions that can potentially thwart your fertility efforts.
But there’s a catch - foods that are high in lectin are often foods that are traditionally highly healthy in many other ways - nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, certain vegetables and fruits. You may now be wondering if you need to avoid them altogether. The answer is a bit more complicated than you might think. Moderation is important, but so is preparation.
Tune into this session to get the scoop on why certain “healthy” foods would cause inflammation and what to do about it. We’ll explore exactly what lectins are, how they can affect the body and fertility, and what food sources they are commonly found in. Most importantly I’ll give you the scoop on how to consume them and make sure not to be flaring an immune response that could hinder your fertility.
You’ll Learn:
- What lectins are and where they’re found
- The effects of lectins on health, and fertility
- The cons of completely 100% eliminating lectins from your diet
- How to adjust consumption and preparation of lectin-heavy foods
Need more guidance? Feel free to contact us at the Naturna Institute. Email us at info@naturnalife.com or send me DM on Instagram @drchristinaburns/@naturna_lif
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
There is a lot of buzz around the topic of our “microbiome” these days for good reason. The balance of your gut can play a major role in everything from your weight to your mental health (and of course your digestion). What is lesser known is that it is a major player in your reproductive outcomes. Subtle bacterial changes affect both your gut and vaginal “microecology”. An imbalance can wreak havoc on your hormones, affect egg quality and kill chances of implantation. Its also implicated in miscarriage!
Are probiotics the answer? The truth might surprise you. Probiotics are a powerful tool you can use on your fertility journey, but like any tool, you have to use them wisely.
In this episode, we’ll explore just how probiotics work in the body and how they can help create a positive environment for sperm quality and implantation. We’ll also do a quick review of the variety of strains and brands of probiotics that are available on the market and why choosing the right one can make all the difference.
You’ll Learn:
- How your microbiome can affect hormone levels
- What increased testosterone and estrogen can do to your body
- How a bacteria imbalance impacts fertility
- The ways probiotics can improve your gut and reproductive health
- How to choose a probiotic that’s right for you
Need more guidance? Feel free to contact us at the Naturna Institute to get hooked up with the right probiotic for you. Email us at info@naturnalife.com or send me DM on Instagram @drchristinaburns/@naturna_life
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Coffee is a daily ritual for many people. You might not think twice about your morning joe, or about the random doses of caffeine you are getting from other sources. But what if it could tremendously impact your fertility outcomes. Would you want to know?
The notion of ditching that cup of joe is not one that most like to hear. The truth is that caffeine’s effects on fertility and pregnancy have long been the subject of much debate. Fairly large and reputable studies show that consuming “too much” can have serious implications for your fertility efforts. So really how much is too much? In this episode, we’ll dig into the research and find out the buzz around everyone’s favorite energy-boosting beverage.
Join me for an honest chat about your caffeine habits. We’ll talk about how all the little things you consume in your day-to-day life can add up. And most importantly, you can take the opportunity to tune in and ask yourself what needs to be addressed to function optimally while caring for your reproductive health.
You’ll Learn:
- How caffeine affects your physical and mental health
- What the research shows about caffeine intake and fertility
- The risk caffeine poses to a pregnancy
- How you can safely modify your habits
- Alternatives to coffee for a healthy fertility and pregnancy journey
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
We are all born with the innate ability to heal. In our modern, science-focused age, many of us have forgotten our own power. We hand it over to the doctor and neglect our own role in any positive or negative outcomes. In this session, we explore ways to tune in on another level and what it can help us access within ourselves.
Reiki Master, intuitive consultant, and spiritual medium, Jen Halpern is here to guide us on this journey. She has an incredible presence and so much insight for anyone who feels disconnected from spirit.
Going on a fertility journey isn’t easy, and you might find yourself feeling bewildered and powerless to affect your own outcomes. Energy healing can reintroduce you to your own self-healing capabilities and help you reframe what you’re going through. We’ll talk about the different forms of energy healing out there, how to clear emotional blocks and trust the universe, and what it really means to “think positive.”
Join us for a compassionate discussion on how we hold ourselves back and the ways energy healing can help us move forward.
You’ll Learn:
- What energy healing is
- How Reiki can help you uncover deeper truths
- What messages from spirit can teach you
- How to clear emotional blocks to move forward
- What positive thinking really looks like
- How to take back your own power and tap into your innate healing abilities
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Modern medical culture will have us believe that we have no power over our fertile destiny. But there is a shift happening. People are seeking out information and methods beyond what is offered in conventional medicine. Why? Because modern scientific methods are amazing, but they are failing us. And when they do we pick ourselves up and figure out what other solutions may increase odds of success.
Lifestyle factors, especially nutrition, can have a huge impact on your fertility outcomes. In this episode, we’ll dive into some research about the interdependent relationship between nutrition and fertility.
We’ll look at how either a hypercaloric diet or an undernourished diet can have negative effects on your journey. We’ll discuss the ways an unbalanced diet can wreak havoc on your body and your fertility processes, as well as how to correct these imbalances and maximize your nutrition in the long run.
Becoming mindful of what you eat is transformative. This episode will get you started - and give you a sneak peek into my upcoming course on nutrition for fertility!
You’ll Learn:
- How being overweight OR underweight hampers fertility
- The ways nutrition influences fertility
- How to work towards a more balanced diet
- What studies show about the impact of nutrition on fertility
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Male fertility often goes overlooked in the broader discussions around fertility and reproductive health. But the truth is that it takes two to make a baby and our men should not get such an easy “pass”. A little education goes a long way and I’m sure that at least a few of your guys would participate if they knew how much it would:
1) help support you and
2) improve your chances of getting that baby ASAP!
Dr. Yaniv Larish, a urologist and expert on all things sperm, joins us today to discuss the most common issues relating to male fertility and how they can be corrected through lifestyle or modern medicine. He shares his passion for treating the infertile couple as two parts of the same whole.
In this informative interview, we talk about what causes male infertility, the amazing technologies that can be used to treat it, and how to naturally boost male fertility through nutrition and other lifestyle choices.
You’ll Learn:
- The most common causes of male infertility
- What modern medicine can do to treat it
- How sperm health relates to IVF
- What normal sperm parameters are and what they mean
- What DNA fragmentation is and how oxidative stress impacts fertility
- How nutrition can play a role in male fertility
- How to maximize your diet and lifestyle for success
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
When it comes to fertility challenges, there’s so much going on behind the scenes. Vitamins play a vital role in our reproductive health, but we often don’t understand just how much of an impact a single nutrient could have. Today, we’ll be turning the spotlight on vitamin B-12 and why it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting enough of it.
Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin that’s important for many operations of the body, including healthy brain function, nervous system regulation, and both female and male fertility. It’s an essential component for methylation, a biochemical process that enables the proper functioning of almost every system in the body, including the reproductive system.
A B-12 deficiency can contribute to fertility challenges in a variety of ways such as affecting ovulation and development of the egg, or compromising the ability of a fertilized embryo to implant or thrive in the uterus.
Tune into today’s episode for a deep dive into what this means for your fertility journey. We’ll discuss how to tell if you have a B-12 deficiency, ways to tweak your diet to boost your intake of this necessary vitamin, and when to consider supplementation.
You’ll Learn:
- The role vitamin B-12 plays in your fertility journey
- Symptoms of a B-12 deficiency
- The side effects of a B-12 deficiency and how it can affect your chances
- What foods to eat to boost your intake
- When to consider supplements
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
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It seems like every day we’re being told to cut something out of our diets. Since the 1980s, we’ve been mired in a very fat-phobic society. But more recently, the enemy is a byproduct of the agricultural revolution. You guessed it - carbs. In the age of the no-carb diet craze, the topic deserves some attention. Should we go paleo, keto or some other form of grain free diet? Are any carbs good for you?
The answer is honestly not so clear cut. Carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient needed for energy and proper balance of all our body systems. But like fats and proteins, not all carbohydrates are created equal. And everyone's a little different in how their body metabolizes carbs.
Too many carbs can throw off blood sugar and insulin levels for most people, but that would be more of an issue for someone with PCOS, for example. A high grain diet can also be very inflammatory for those with leaky gut syndrome and/or a predisposition to immunological issues like hashimoto's and endometriosis.
Whether we are talking about insulin fluctuations or inflammation, it isn’t a good fit for boosting odds of conception.
Tune in to the episode to learn more about the various types of carbs and what might be the best option for you.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
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For decades we have been living in a fat phobic society. Basically since the 80s, low fat has become the norm. Unfortunately, there have been numerous consequences to abandoning this vital macronutrient. Low fat dairy, for example, has been shown to have a variety of negative health effects on hormones and fertility according to a large study of 18000 plus women!
Fats can be amazing fertility food. They make up our cell walls and are building blocks for hormones. The right kind of fats are highly anti-inflammatory not only to prevent but also reverse the free radical damage that ages us (and our eggs). Healthy fats nourish our brain and nervous system and keep us mentally well. Most important for the topic at hand - they help build healthy eggs, sperm and uterine lining.
Crave carbs, sugar or wine? Fats keep you feeling calm and satiated. You’ll have less highs and lows of emotions, energy and cravings if you eat good fats.
In today’s episode, we will be having a little lesson in nutrition. Specifically on types of fats, which to consume or avoid and how to get the most out of them.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
There is a lot of buzz around protein these days. The Keto craze puts questions about protein and fat front and center. If you are weary about what factors to consider, today’s episode is dedicated to giving you the scoop on all things protein and fertility.
As a major building block for eggs, sperm, uterine lining and more, adequate protein is essential. But how much is enough? And in what forms? These are some of the questions I aim to answer.
There are many mixed messages abound in today's fad culture. Like whether to go with plant based, keto or paleo. While there are benefits to all, the ideal protein for fertility does not have to be so clearly definite and extreme. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of various approaches on hormones and fertility. And of course, some tips on how to decide what to eat, how to cook it, and where to source it. I’ll even throw in some eastern medicine nutritional philosophy to boot!
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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We are in for a treat! A fertility genius has joined us for today's sessions. Dr Paula Brady is here to chat about all things ovarian reserve and urgent fertility preservation.
Did you know that some of us have biological clocks that are ticking faster than others? Today we will cover how to assess your ovarian reserve and what the numbers mean. Interestingly, your ovarian reserve can be a major indicator of how well you'll respond to IVF treatment, but not always a perfect indicator of hardship on a natural path to conception.
Should you urgently freeze your eggs or embryos? That’s what we’ll dig into! Other topics touched on are PCOS, the impact of birth control on fertility and special considerations for women and couples with cancer.
Don’t miss out! Dr Brady is amazingly articulate and explains everything incredibly well.
Dr. Brady is deeply committed to personalized fertility assessment and treatment for her patients, and has special interest in fertility preservation, ovarian reserve testing, diminished ovarian reserve, ovulatory disorders, and IVF.
Dr. Brady is also Director of the Oncofertility Program at Columbia University Fertility Center, with expertise in fertility preservation and oocyte and embryo cryopreservation for patients with cancer diagnoses, as well as fertility evaluation and treatment for men and women after cancer.
Make sure to tune into this episode as we dive into the basics of ovarian reserve as it pertains to your fertility and fertility treatment.
Follow along with Dr. Brady
Columbia: https://www.obgyn.columbia.edu/profile/paula-c-brady-md
Twitter: twitter.com/drpaulabrady
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulabradymd_fertility
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. So if you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
It's pretty common knowledge that
cannabis is not ideal for sperm. When I see a couple at my practice, I ask if either is dabbling in greenery. They usually already know that it's a problem for sperm.
A new study out of Washington State University published in the Journal of toxicological sciences produced some pretty scary findings.
Though weed can be helpful for symptomatic relief if certain conditions, it’s not at all good for fertility. Not to be scary, but if your partner is smoking weed he needs to stop now.
It will reduce motility, and may affect the count and even the shape. If those sperm can't swim, they are certainly not reaching your egg and arguably if they do, the embryo might not be of sound quality.
Scarier still - The study found that it didn't only affect the sperm of the father, it affected the his son’s.
Human sperm counts have already been declining, as much as 59% in recent years. Need we add to this issue? I think not. Choose another form of recreation and start on the path to repair any damage done.
Tune in to the episode to get in the know about cannabis use and fertility.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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We are usually laser focused on getting knocked up. But no matter how much we'd like to ignore its effects, stress almost always becomes a very real part of the fertility journey. So today's session is dedicated to healing the stress response. It's a topic we can put to use to cope better with the journey and really everything life throws at us. It may also assist your body in achieving the balance needed to conceive.
To guide us through this intimidating journey, I've invited stress expert and long time healer, Siu Ping Negrin L.Ac. For 20 years, Siu has been helping people balance energy flow through acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, Qi Gong massage, and meditation. She herself has had both a rocky fertility and life journey, which led to her expertise in this area. Her approach is based on the belief that maximum health is best achieved by empowering one's innate ability to heal, and I couldn't agree more. Siu Ping was born in Hong Kong and raised in a traditional Chinese household in an All American suburb. This paved the way to developing her unique style of integrating Chinese medicine into her Western education, providing a well rounded expertise that is not readily found in modern day medical practitioners. This is amazing because we live in a world where it’s difficult to find a bridge between Chinese Medicine and Natural Medicine, from East to West.
Today we sat down with Siu Ping to talk more about how to heal stress including Chi Gong, a form of exercise and meditation, her nine week program where she helps you break your patterns of stress.
In this episode, we are getting a little cheeky with the topic. Generally a high AMH is thought of as awesome for fertility outcomes. But, Is it really always a good thing? Let’s break it down.
AMH is a hormone and it is generally used as an indicator of how many eggs you have left in your reserves. Exceptionally high levels of this hormone have been traditionally thought of as a byproduct of amenorrhea or of PCOS. But in a new clinical study by Weill Cornell, they suggest that this hormone may be playing an active role in disorders of fertility like PCOS.
A high AMH is generally something over three. I’ve even seen it can go up to an AMH of 10, or 11. Doctors are often so excited about a high AMH because it would mean they would get tons of eggs out of their cycle. Now that's true, they often get a lot of eggs. I even had patients getting 30- 50 eggs out of their cycle, but the downside is that often very few of them make viable embryos.
In a recent study published in March in science advances, the investigators discovered that as the follicle grows, the egg that resides within it gradually matures, and in a normal reproductive cycle, that follicle ultimately undergoes ovulation to release an egg capable of being fertilized. However, in patients with PCOS, a hormonal disorder that impacts up to 10 percent of women, the ovaries contain numerous smaller follicles that produce AMH, but fail to progress to later stages and ovulate.
AMH is routinely measured in the clinic to give an indication of how many follicles a woman has in her ovaries. But what if the high AMH can have a negative influence on fertility and overall health. It requires further research but for the purposes of our discussion, there is a possibility that a high AMH is a biomarker of other reproductive and metabolic issues associated with complex hormonal disorders like PCOS.
But fear not, as this issue responds incredibly well to natural interventions. I have been able to help my patients with this by targeting the diet because a high AMH is often tied to insulin resistance. Whenever there is blood sugar and insulin imbalances, often it's correlated with inflammatory responses - aka. the enemy of egg quality. There are also supplements you can take in addition to a lifestyle change.
Tune into the episode to learn more about the pros and cons of high AMH and the lifestyle recos get you better fertility outcomes.
In this episode we are giving our supplement spotlight to Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10 for short. If you’ve been In the fertility grind for a while then you are likely already aware of this supplement. It’s a good one. Let’s spend this episode talking about why and how to use it.
CoQ10 is a nutrient that occurs naturally in the body. Our highest levels of this compound are found in the liver, heart, kidneys, and pancreas. Cells use CoQ10 for various functions, such as growth and maintenance. CoQ10 also functions as an antioxidant by protecting cells in the body from damage caused by harmful molecules.
It plays many vital roles in our diet and health and functions like a vitamin to boost energy production in the body, while also helping to fight the leading causes of cardiovascular disease.
Not only has the substance been touted for its neurological and cardiac health benefits, modern studies have shown that coenzyme Q10 can have a significant impact on fertility.
According to research published in the Journal of Fertility and Sterility, women who were given 600 mg of CoQ10 supplements per day saw improved egg health and fertilization rates.
The consumption of CoQ10 supplements has also been found to enhance male fertility. A study published in the Journal of Andrology found that men who took 200 to 300 mg of CoQ10 daily experienced a noticeable increase in sperm motility and sperm count, as well as an overall boost in sperm health.
Tune into the episode to learn more about the benefits of CoQ10, and how to take it for best fertility outcomes.
Today we are talking about Endometritis, a silent offender. Endometritis is inflammation of the lining of the uterus, mostly caused by an infection. It can be due to chlamydia, gonorrhea, tuberculosis, or a mix of normal vaginal bacteria.
The reason Endometritis has earned its title as the silent offender, is because if often flies under the radar. What you don’t know is there, you can’t address. Both acute and chronic endometritis are implicated in unexplained infertility and recurrent miscarriage. I see it most often in failed implantation and chemical pregnancy.
Chronic endometritis is difficult to catch and can be easily overlooked, since its symptoms can be extremely subtle. Many patients I have had don’t even realize they had it until they got tested.
Chronic endometritis causes a persistent low-grade inflammatory response which is largely asymptomatic but generates an unfriendly environment for a pregnancy to implant and thrive in. If you listen to my other podcasts, you’ll hear me talk about this low-grade inflammatory response and how it wreaks havoc in our bodies.
While the research tells us that endometritis can be pesky for fertility and may contribute to failed implantation, what many people don’t know is that it is actually more likely to occur after miscarriage or childbirth, it is also more common after a long labor or C-section.
A study by Kimura et al (2019) reported chronic endometritis was present in 2.8-56.8% of infertile women, 14-67.5% of women with recurrent implantation failure, and 9.3-67.6% of women with recurrent pregnancy loss.
But how can you find out if you have it and get help? When the infection does show signs, they typically consist of pelvic discomfort, abnormal vaginal bleeding and/or an unusual vaginal discharge. In the vast majority of cases though, chronic endometritis is a silent condition.
Tune into the episode to learn the most reliable diagnostic procedures, the natural medicine approach to take if you have it, and how you can help prevent it.
Let’s talk about one of my favorite topics: How Acupuncture Works for Fertility
This mysterious art, though now quite mainstream, is an amazing asset to women and couples on the fertility highway. Though its been around for millenia (3000+ years) and has been clinically proven to be effective for a variety of conditions, we are still lacking in the gold standard double blind placebo trials to support its use. One of the main reasons why conducting research on acupuncture is hard is because treatments are extremely customized to the person. This makes it difficult to sit down and study it because every treatment is so unique to the person coming in and generally, studies are done on a standardized protocol. Thats what makes it so damn special and effective. Also, not for nothing, there’s not a lot of money going towards acupuncture research… Big pharma has a lot more backing to fund research on drugs. Luckily acupuncture for fertility has evidence mounting in its favor.
So, how does it work exactly? Studies have shown that acupuncture can induce reactions that activate nerve endocrine and immune signaling pathways by inserting needles into the skin. Acupuncture can assist in reproductive health with improving ovarian function, follicle countAMh, hormone balance, uterus receptivity and blood flow. It’s also amazing for stress, bloat, or if you’re feeling emotionally ravaged from the fertility process.
Today we sat down and talked about the specifics of acupuncture for fertility, the possible mechanisms of how acupuncture actually helps, and more!
Tune into this week’s episode to chat about all things acupuncture for fertility.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Herb Spotlight: Anti-aging Astragalus
This week we are focusing on the magic of Astragalus. Let’s quickly highlight some of the incredible benefits of this herb that I personally use in 90% of my herbal formulas!
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-aging
- Sensitizes insulin
- Promotes wound healing
- Stimulates your metabolism
- Protects your liver, against viruses, brain cells, and cardiovascular
- A potent antioxidant and inhibits cancer cells
- Regenerates your cells and reverses damage from your daily lifestyle
At times this herb can be referred to as the herb for immunity, but it's so, so much more.
Although boosting immunity and resilience is its most known benefit, it also does some real magic with fertility when it comes to its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
Research on its anti-aging properties has been focused on its ability to lengthen telomeres. Since telomeres shorten as we age, the ability to lengthen them seems to reverse the effects of aging. This is pretty nifty when it comes to egg quality, an area that most women in the fertility struggle are hyper aware of. Benefits of this effect regenerate not only our reproductive system, but is known to restore health and vitality to several body systems.
Tune into this week’s episode for the inside scoop on all things Astragalus.
Supplement Spotlight: NMN for Egg Quality
Egg quality issues are front and center in the fertility struggle. Particularly with the loud and fast ticking of our biological clock. With this in mind, if there is something out there to help, I’ll be damn sure to make it known!
Enter NMN aka “nicotinamide mononucleotide”, a nutritional supplement and precursor of NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). There has been some buzz on this lately in the realm of integrative fertility practitioners.
Studies have shown that NMN might prove to be beneficial in treating age related egg quality and fertility decline. We have seen that with age, egg quality declines, probability of carrying a healthy pregnancy declines, and NAD+ declines as well as a higher risk of abnormal embryos.
Mitochondrial function declines with age as well and can affect different organs, including the ovaries.
In mice studies, NMN effectively reduced the severity of many age related diseases. Researchers at the University of Queensland, Australia gave a daily dose to mice and it reversed the impact of aging on egg quality and increased fertility, but also did not harm offspring from them taking NMN in the process.
Unfortunately, there were some downfalls in this study. First of all, no human studies have been done yet, but it shows promising results. It also seems to be safe when used for short periods of time. We just don’t yet have parameters on dosing or duration to get results.
My hope is to bring awareness to NMN and anything else that could help you on your path. I also hope that discussing topics like these in this podcast will help bring up topics of conversations and questions for you to explore and seek out more information. It’s important to have these discussions and conversations to spark inspiration for you to keep exploring.
Keep going. Don't give up. Know that it’s okay to change course and find another route.
Tune into this week’s episode for the inside scoop on all things NMN.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Today we sat down with Reproductive Endocrinologist and Medical and Laboratory Director at Columbia University’s Fertility Center, Dr. Forman, to discuss exactly what diminished ovarian reserve really is, and what it could mean for you.
What is diminished ovarian reserve (DOR)?
DOR is something that we only know by doing testing of ovarian reserve. When you start running tests, you can find out if you have a lower than expected egg supply. Ultrasounds allow you to look at follicles and see how many you have and blood tests check other markers. Putting it all together we get a well rounded picture.
You have all the eggs you will have when you are born, and some were born with less than others. Some women also have a reserve that declines faster than others. Causes are hard to peg, but we will address some culprits in the session.
Follicles are fluid filled sacs that contain eggs (most of the time) and the ones you can see during the ultrasound are the ones that might grow in an IVF cycle. If you see fewer it may correlate with a lower ovarian reserve and less likelihood of having a productive round of IVF.
The more follicles, the higher AMH (a hormone secreted by the ovarian follicles). The lower follicles, the lower AMH. This is a blood marker of ovarian reserve, and if you’re on the lower side it’s an indicator of diminished ovarian reserve.
Why don't we test these levels when we are young?
Well, it’s not exactly recommended routinely by OB/GYNs. They don't recommend that women are tested during their annual exam. Honestly, it may cause a lot more anxiety than necessary, mainly because you have to know what you're checking, what it means and what it does not mean.
Another important note is that diminished ovarian reserve does not equate to infertility. Infertility is defined as trying for a year and not being able to conceive. What this means is that someone can have DOR but never even know about it because they get pregnant and never have testing!
It's typically recognized when a test is done due to someone having difficulty conceiving or if someone is interested in preserving her fertility.
What are the causes of DOR?
Well, a lot of it just comes down to genetics, but there are a few instances where toxins come into play.
Tune into this week’s episode for the inside scoop from the Medical and Laboratory Director at Columbia University’s Fertility Center, as we tackle this conversation, the possible causes/ solutions, and all things Diminished Ovarian Reserve.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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When people are thinking of changing it’s usually because they aren’t getting results and start to wonder, can someone else do better? Usually, you start questioning things when you, the patient, start to lose confidence in your doctor or center. Maybe mistakes have been made or the center you go to is disorganized; maybe you just feel like you need a fresh start.
Sometimes it’s hard to know how long to stick it out before switching things up. Before jumping the gun, ask yourself what’s important to you? Do you want your doctor to be especially good at working with your specific condition? Is it important for you to be able to get a hold of them? Does your doctor make you feel heard? What works best for you, financially?
There are also a lot of benefits of having one doctor learn your body and how you respond to medications because it can help them develop a better protocol for you. That is, unless they are too busy to think critically about your case. A general rule of thumb is stick with your doctor for at least 3 cycles. Why? Well, studies show that sticking with the same protocol has ended up with success. So although it did not work THIS time, it could work the next. At the same time, you know your body best and sometimes you just know something isn’t right and you need to try something new. The key is to ask questions and advocate for yourself.
Now, from a holistic perspective, it’s important to look at what you’re doing with your life. A lot of patients who have gone through multiple cycles, doctors, and protocols have not stopped to take inventory of the basics. Are you overly stressed? Are you drinking a lot? Eating poorly? Maybe you aren’t sleeping enough? It’s important to look at what could be going on in your life that could be affecting your reproductive outcomes. We have more power than we know over our journey, but often we give a lot of that power to someone else - so TAKE IT BACK. Empowerment can come through wellness. It transforms our lives. Hopefully it gets us our baby, but it'll get you much more than that too.
Want more information? Tune into this week's podcast for the scoop on when to know if it’s time for you to change doctors and what to look for when and if you do.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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You know I love getting into the weeds when it comes to subtle fertility foe. It's often these hidden culprits landing us in the grey zone of “unexplained” infertility. So for today's episode, let’s get semi obscure and take a moment to chat about what homocysteine is and how homocysteine levels can be associated with fertility challenges.
Well, first of all, what is homocysteine? Homocysteine is a sulfur containing amino acid that's naturally produced in our bodies. It’s an inflammatory and toxic amino acid that can damage blood vessels. This can then contribute to blood clots and cardiovascular disease.
How does this affect fertility and pregnancy? Homocysteine is highly inflammatory and can cause issues with blood clotting and oxidative stress. It’s also associated with folate and b vitamins deficiencies that can affect many aspects of fertility and fetal development.
This one’s a tricky one because having fluctuations in your homocysteine levels can happen under the radar. It’s not always something that's consistent. You could feel a bit puffy, notice blotchy skin or agitation, but dismiss it, when in reality, it could have a toxic effect on your fertility. You could also have no symptoms at all and be completely unaware. It’s important to note that homocysteine not only affects women but men too. It may impair sperm production due to reduced DNA synthesis. Among couples undergoing IVF, higher homocysteine can mean lower quality embryos.
So, what can we do? B vitamins are crucial in keeping homocysteine down, so being on a good prenatal with enough B vitamins is important. Maintaining an anti-inflammatory diet is a must as well. Keep stress levels low, and intake lots of water. Want more information? Tune in for the scoop on all things homocysteine and what you can do to keep your homocysteine levels in check.
Fertility patients get understandably frustrated by the (non)diagnosis of "unexplained infertility". Is it really unexplained? Or is it just that no one has taken enough of a deep dive to really know or ascertain if there are physiological or structural causes of their fertility challenges? According to Dr. Andrea Vidali, as IVF became more effective in the 90s, the importance of finding out "why" faded into the background. Doctors only sometimes started taking a deeper look for their patients after IVF failed.
So how do we tackle the issue of why? Well, it might begin with more exploration into your anatomy or immune system or perhaps a more holistic approach. Patients want the answers. The cause matters. And finding something can provide peace of mind and direction.
This week we sat down with reproductive endocrinologist, reproductive immunologist and endometriosis surgeon, Dr. Andrea Vidali, who specializes in infertility, implantation failure and pregnancy loss, to discuss these topics. As CEO and founder of Pregmune, the first ever immunology based testing platform that is revolutionizing the treatment of reproductive failure, Dr. Vidali is dedicated to understanding and treating often overlooked causes of infertility. Tune into this week’s episode for the inside scoop from world renowned doctor, Dr. Vidali, as we tackle these conversations and the history of IVF.
For more information on Pregmune visit: https://pregmune.com/
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
If you Google “research Chinese herbs infertility,” you will find a bunch of evidence-based articles to support their use. Why? Because they are super effective. Chinese herbs are more revered in China to treat infertility than acupuncture!
So how do you know if it's a good idea to try? You might want to consider them for any challenge. If you aren’t getting pregnant despite acupuncture, vitamins, dietary changes, IVF, etc.. then you might think about tasting the yucky juice.
So why do they get a bad rap? One reason is that many doctors are worried about herbs interfering with medications. But in actuality, some herbs can increase the effectiveness of some medications, such as Clomid. Unfortunately, there are also some herbs that have some toxicity. But this is super rare, and a qualified herbalist would know how to navigate these issues. On that note, it can be hard to find a qualified herbal doctor, but I’ll share some pointers on that. All said, in the right hands, they are a game-changer.
If you’ve ever drank the herbs as tea, you know they are NOT delicious. I refer to it as “junk juice” in my practice for good reason! The good news is that modern versions such as capsules are available if the taste just isn’t tolerable. Tune in to this week’s session to get the inside scoop all about Chinese herbs for fertility and beyond!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
If you’ve been on the journey to get your baby, you might be familiar with the concept of “egg reserve”, aka, How many eggs do we have to work with?
We are all born with a finite number of eggs, but some of us will have less than others. While other women might be burning them up at a faster rate. It’s crazy, but some women have biological clocks that are ticking faster than others. I’m quite sure I burned mine up early with a high-stress lifestyle. Luckily I had methods to restore my ovaries enough to conceive.
Your ovarian reserve can be a major indicator of how well you'll respond to IVF treatment, and in many cases, it might be better to tackle naturally. In this episode, I'll walk you through what your ovarian reserve really means for your fertility, as well as strategies to boost your odds of conception.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
The new year is a great time to take inventory of the habits that are either serving or hindering us. If we are honest with ourselves, most of us know there are choices we are making on the daily that aren’t necessarily breeding “fertile grounds.” We feel stuck and sometimes don't know how to change. Before setting intentions, it can be useful to tune into patterns of behavior that we know we need to shake up. Then we can more easily identify a starting point to move forward. Whether it's overindulging in food or drink, staying up too late, being too plugged in, or using toxic products in our cleaning or cosmetic regime - adjusting just one thing can make a world of difference. You don't need to take on the world, but taking action will help you take your power back in a time when you may feel powerless. Tune into this episode for a loving nudge.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
A thin uterine lining is a common obstacle many face in the realm of implantation challenges. And while conventional medical options are limited, natural medicine has a lot to offer.
“But why isn’t my lining cooperating?!” Often it is due to low levels of certain reproductive hormones, such as estrogen. This is common in women with PCOS or hypothalamic amenorrhea due to the underproduction of hormones. Other potential culprits are medications such as Clomid, insulin resistance, high androgens, scarring, infections, high stress, and growths like adenomyosis or fibroids.
Conventional treatments often involve supplementing estrogen in the form of patches and pills. Sadly, this isn't effective in many cases because some women's bodies can’t absorb it. In addition, blasting estrogen can actually worsen the situation for many women—especially those with estrogen-sensitive growths like fibroids, endometriosis, and adenomyosis. So what’s a girl to do? Tune in to this week's episode to hear about the uterine plumping magic that natural methods offer.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Chocolate is a go-to for many women when they get in the mood for a "fix.” Particularly in the premenstrual phase of our cycle, the craving for this dark mistress can easily lead to daily indulgence. But dark chocolate is fine, right? Reasonably low in sugar, not too bad on fat, and loaded with antioxidants. That's the narrative I usually hear in defense of this decadent treat. Boo on me for delivering this news during the holidays (though that was actually part of the plan), but chocolate is definitely NOT your ally if you suffer from hormonal symptoms like PMS, mood swings, fluid retention, constipation, insomnia, and the like. It's especially not good after a medicated IUI or IVF cycle or two (or three, four, five...). Tune into this week's episode to find out why we crave chocolate and why it makes our hormonal hell much much more hellish. Teaser has a lot to do with its nutritional profile and how that mixes with our hormones.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
This episode is the story of one tenacious woman. Ashley Gildin would stop at nothing to get her babies. As your quintessential Type A New Yorker, she sought out the advice of NYCs reproductive specialists and tried a myriad of treatments and procedures. In our session, she walks us through her adventure seeing fertility experts, including those in the realm of immunology, surgery, and surrogacy. But, Ashley didn't stop there. She even went on to see a healer before her last cycle. Tune in to hear how she ended up with 2 babies in 4 months!
Guest Bio:
Ashley Gildin Spitzer is an IVF, NICU, and Surrogacy mom of two, as well as the founder of the Facebook group "Fertility Friends of Friends." Ashley has started a community where others can provide hope, stories, and advice to those who are struggling and going through it simultaneously, where women can lean on each other and find friendship and guidance in difficult times.
Important Links:
Facebook Group
Blog Post
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
We all know that our liver plays a major role in processing a myriad of toxins. As the hot seat of detoxification, the liver acts as the filter through which all things pass. If it is functioning in good order, the liver packages up all the junk that enters our system and helps it find the exit through bowels, kidneys, skin, and breath. Lesser known is that the liver converts many of our hormones into their active forms (i.e., thyroid) and also cleanses hormone residues from our bodies (i.e., estrogen). It can't do its important work if clogged up, leading to toxic build-up and hormonal imbalances. This is really important because a funky thyroid or an excess of estrogen will start to throw off our fertility. Collateral damage ranges from issues with ovulation to growth of fibroids or endometriosis, issues with egg quality and implantation. It runs the gamut! Why? Toxins and hormone residues from foods, medications (i.e., IVF…), and life in general build up and lead to inflammation and free radical damage. When our liver isn't doing its job, we are aging FAST. Need more convincing? Tune in for the scoop on why liver health is crucial for hormonal balance and fertility.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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Episode Summary:
This session is about tuning in and taking your power back. Nadia Murdock is a powerhouse - spiritually, emotionally, and physically. She is not like to give in to fear and knows when to hit pause then something doesn't feel quite right. When asked about how she makes decisions, Nadia refers to how she "felt" in each situation, rather than a swirling list of pros and cons. She focuses on tuning in to get the answers. But that's not all. Nadia knows her work with her care providers is a mutual, respectful relationship. One that should "jive" well. She encourages women to ask questions and seek out the right doctor if something is not working. Nadia's is a story of a long-awaited natural fertility journey, with some complications in her high-risk pregnancy that led to some real soul searching. An encounter with a doctor led her to do a deep dive into black women's experience in pregnancy and childbirth. And what she found was disturbing, to say the least. So tune in for some much-needed wisdom.
Guest Bio:
Nadia Murdock is a Mindset and Movement Expert. She is a successful entrepreneur, author, fitness writer, expert, and mom. She studied at Rutgers University a received her Bachelor’s Degree and at the University of Hartford studying Psychology. Her education and experience in the interlocking battle of health and psychology fuel her mission and purpose of motivating others into adapting a self-positive mindset leading to healthier choices and body confidence. She then became an On-Air fitness expert/coach and founded “Nadia Murdock Fit.” Afterward, she wrote “You Can Have It All,” and My ‘Train Your Mind, Change Your Body’ philosophy is echoed in her content (writing, interviews, social media, newsletter, videos, press commentary) and digital footprint. Her robust portfolio leads her to take charge to help women take control of their minds and bodies extends over a decade.
Important Links:
Website
Treatment of black women in health care:
https://www.aamc.org/news-insights/how-we-fail-black-patients-pain
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4843483/
https://www.today.com/health/implicit-bias-medicine-how-it-hurts-black-women-t187866
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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Episode Summary:
Is there a right way to cleanse? There sure is! Especially when trying to conceive. I imagine many of you are feeling a tad gunked up after a rather indulgent holiday. A detox is a great way to reset physically and mentally. It's an empowering gift to self that can help everything from egg quality to implantation issues. While it might seem intimidating at first, once you start feeling the positive effects, you may just get hooked on a clean lifestyle. Don't believe me? Try it out! You'll be likely to shed unwanted weight, increase energy and banish brain fog. But most important, of course, it can serve as an important step in creating a "fertile internal environment."
Tune in for the skinny on when and how to detox when trying to get pregnant. Learn the basics of maximizing the fertility-enhancing benefits and avoid any negative impacts on your baby-making efforts.
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Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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Episode Summary:Nestled on the second tier of the food pyramid, dairy is often lauded as the best source of calcium available to humankind. Recall that slogan: "Milk Does a Body Good" on billboards and commercials everywhere... From childhood, we were taught that it would help us grow big and strong. That sentiment still persists despite mounting evidence to the contrary.
We all love the occasional cheesy, ice-creamy indulgence. Here and there wouldn't pose a massive problem for most. The danger is in thinking that several servings per day are actually benefiting us. A study of over 18,000 women demonstrated that low-fat dairy greatly increased the chances of ovulatory infertility. Others are appearing that draw a connection between dairy and a plethora of immune and inflammatory responses. If you've listened to my previous podcasts on inflammation, you'll know that it exacerbates everything from endometriosis and fibroids to PCOS and unexplained infertility. It's not much help for egg quality and implantation either. Researchers at Harvard have been busy at work trying to educate the public on this potential foe. Needless to say, when it comes to your fertility, the topic might warrant further investigation. Particularly if you have a preexisting gut issue or are prone to allergies, IBS, or inflammation, dairy is definitely not your pal. A diet rich in dairy has sadly been linked to everything from diabetes to cancer. Scary, I know. Tune in to get the scoop!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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Episode Summary:
It’s your lucky day! We are getting the inside scoop with fertility specialist Dr. Catha Fischer.
There is a lot of information to sift through when you embark on the IVF journey and even more so when it hasn't quite been successful. When things don't go as planned, we start to ask a lot of questions. But it can get very overwhelming, to say the least. Perhaps you are seeking sources of information from Facebook groups, online chats, or various fertility books. But how to tell fact from fiction? Wouldn't it be nice just to ask a doctor? In this week's session, we are joined by board-certified REI and Director of Fertility Preservation at Spring Fertility in New York, Dr. Catha Fisher. Dr. Fisher is kind enough to join us for a Q & A session to give us the nitty-gritty on hot topics in the fertility landscape. Including debunking myths and giving us the scoop on relevant research in the field. She provides us with the doctor’s point of view while also reminding us to "trust your gut.” This one is not to be missed!
Guest Bio:
Dr. Fischer is a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist, Obstetrician, and Gynecologist. Most recently, Dr. Fischer was practicing at one of the highest volume practices in the country. Dr. Fischer is most looking forward to joining Spring in her ability to continue practicing exceptional clinical care while also delivering an unparalleled and compassionate patient experience. Her practice ethos is that patients deserve both, and she’s thrilled to join a team that also echoes this sentiment. As a native New Yorker, Dr. Fischer is also excited to bring her practice back to the city.
Dr. Fischer graduated with honors from Washington University in St. Louis before attending the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She completed her residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Dr. Fischer then completed her Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at Columbia University Medical Center-New York Presbyterian Hospital.
Important Links:
Website
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Sometimes we just need some perspective. When fertility challenges shatter our confidence, it makes us question everything. We get so obsessed with all the details that we cannot see a clear way forward. It takes a toll on every level - mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Whether you are just embarking on this journey or have been at it for a while, you know the impact on your heart and mind. This week’s session discusses what to do when the fertility slug makes you feel crazy. This session is not about meditation or other mindfulness inspiration from the East. Instead, it is about learning to reframe situations and tap into faith. If we can get out of the weeds, we can see what is available to us more clearly. Tune in for some love on this wild ride.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Sugar couldn't possibly have that much of an impact, right? Think again! We are bringing back an oldie, but a goodie. In this episode, I'll walk you through exactly what sugar and insulin imbalances can do to your fertility. Best part? It's within your reach to make these simple changes and boost your fertility outcomes. So, throw out that Halloween candy, and let’s get started!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
In this week's session, we are joined by IVF mama and self-professed Type A, Nathalie Carpenter. Nathalie is one tenacious woman. If something feels out of control, she finds a way to take her power back. After hitting several walls in her fertility journey, Nathalie not only sought out the right doctor for her, she also did a deep dive into nutrition to take charge of her health in the way that we all can - by being mindful of what we After landing with Dr. Right and working on her nutrition, she successfully conceived her little one. Natalie shares with us the details of her IVF journey and how she processed her thoughts and emotions throughout. She went through a magnificent evolution and is here to share the wisdom she gleaned through it all. This is one not to miss!
Guest Bio:
After an initial 3.5-year fertility journey and finding her voice to advocate for herself during IVF treatments, Nathalie pivoted from a 20+ corporate brand marketing career at Audi (and previous brands including Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, Highgate Hotels, Crumbs Bakeshop, Grey Goose Vodka, and D'USSE Cognac), to found Well + Luxe which supports women's wellness and fertility brands with strategic marketing consulting, influencer marketing and programming. Nathalie is also a Nutritious Life Certified Health and Wellness Coach and obtained a plant-based nutrition certification from Cornell.
Nathalie has been a speaker and moderator for various organizations and events, including the S.H.E. Summit, HeyMama, Luminary, Beat Infertility, and the Fertility Rally. She has also been featured on Good Morning America, CNN, VeryWell Family, and Voyage LA and has written for The Bump and Pregnantish. You can also find Nathalie on Clubhouse @ncarpenter speaking about purpose-driven, women's health, fertility, and wellness-related topics and supporting non-profit organizations including BabyQuest Foundation, Resolve, and Uniquely Knitted.
Important Links:
Instagram
Website
Blog
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
A major part of the fertility struggle for many women is the fact that we are fighting the clock. Therefore, a lot of research is being conducted on new technology, nutrients, and herbs to assess if there is any way of reviving our egg quality. A reversal of the aging of our ovaries, so to speak. At the forefront of this conversation is the antioxidant resveratrol.
In today’s supplement spotlight, I’ll walk you through the research about its fertility potential as well as its pros and cons. Let’s jump in!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Do your moods fluctuations correlate with your monthly cycle? Or maybe you have been doing fertility treatment and feel like you are a hot mess. If you feel like hormones are getting the best of your mood and mindset, this episode is for you.
In today’s chat, we learn about the phases of the hormonal cycle and what happens during each phase. We dig deep into understanding those four phases and the changes that occur physically and mentally, even more so if you’ve been taking hormones for fertility treatment. I share knowledge (and validation) of what feelings occur during each phase. Tune in to learn what to expect while going through these changes and simple strategies to counteract the effects. Don’t miss out!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
The fertility focus is always on us females, and men are never really held accountable for their side of the equation. But shouldn’t they...
Little known is that male fertility rates have plummeted in recent years and continue to decline by around 1% per year. So what is happening to male fertility? Age, smoking, infection, testicular cancer, heat exposure, and toxin/chemical exposure are just a few things that can cause issues.
Many fertility doctors will say that sperm doesn’t matter as much as egg quality does, but in fact, there might be more to the equation. This week’s episode explores DNA fragmentation testing and highlights some healthy habits your sweetheart can incorporate to optimize his swimmers.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
The topic of the day is antioxidants, and when I say that, you may be thinking of all the supplements one could take. But I want to go deeper and explain why antioxidants can be recommended and how they affect the body and fertility. So, regardless we are talking about oxidative stress and its involvement with infertility and how antioxidants can potentially reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress. Your body produces natural antioxidants to help protect your body, so we want to make sure our nutrition is up and we are eating vitamin-rich foods. Overall, antioxidants can be used supplementally in your daily life to counteract oxidative stress to increase your fertility. Today’s episode is full of great tips, so don’t miss out!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds are proving to give us major potential in the realm of infertility. They may even be the ticket to extending our reproductive lifespan. Unfortunately, the standard American diet is dominant in inflammatory Omega 6 fatty acids instead of the anti-inflammatory Omega 3's. The trouble with this ratio (currently around 25:1?!, how crazy is that?) is that it will work against our effort to improve egg quality and fight the clock.
In today’s episode, I'll walk you through the research that supports the use of Omega 3's in improving egg quality, egg count, increased pregnancy rates, and overall fertility. Not bad, right? The kicker is that there doesn't seem to be much of a downside to consuming these suckers as long as they are well-sourced.
Tune in to get the scoop on how Omega 3 fats may pave your way to baby!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
It’s no secret that acupuncture is an excellent ally in the fertility process. But are you getting the right kind of acupuncture to assist you in optimizing your results? These days, any acupuncturist can hang a shingle saying they treat fertility. With that being said, there are many nuances to using Chinese medicine and acupuncture for fertility and IVF. The Lingo, evidence-based approaches, and the know-how that you want your practitioner to have.
Today we are joined by Dr. Marc Sklar, a founding principal of the Reproductive Wellness Clinic in San Diego, California. He is also the president of the board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (aborm.org), which provides a standard of training and certification for acupuncturists specializing in fertility.
In this episode, Dr. Sklar and I explore the nitty-gritty of how to choose a qualified acupuncturist, how to integrate acupuncture into your treatment plan, and why acupuncture works for fertility. We also touch on how fertility acupuncture differs from “regular” acupuncture, how it can help an IVF cycle, and more goodies to help you reap the best of eastern practices to improve fertility outcomes!
Guest Bio:
Dr. Marc Sklar is a founding principal of the Reproductive Wellness Clinic in San Diego, California. He has extensive experience and expertise in treating and resolving the causes of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss with classical Acupuncture and Chinese Medicines. A culmination of studying world religions and ancient healing techniques, combined with extensive world travel, gives Sklar a unique understanding of the human body and spirit. A Doctor of Acupuncture, Board Certified Herbalist and Oriental Medicine Practitioner, and President of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (ABORM), Sklar approaches his patients with an open mind, compassion, and a medically integrative perspective
Important Links:
Youtube
Website
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
We know that booze isn’t exactly our ally, but since it’s a metaphoric comfort blanket or a fun escape for many of us, we often avoid looking into the topic at all. But since I am venturing out to be your guide on this fertility adventure, I thought it prudent to bring to your attention to some of the negative impacts alcohol may wreak on your fertility. Not to mention it’s not exactly ideal for your emotional balance throughout this process. It feels nice for a moment or two, but then brain fog, lethargy, and a low mood settle in the next day. Your mental state is super important to consider in surviving and thriving in the fertility slug! Not yet convinced? This week, I dive into how alcohol affects your hormones, clog your liver, imbalances your gut and vaginal bacteria, and even causes nutrient deficiencies. AND I’ll throw in some evidence to boot. Don’t worry about feeling lost without your “escape.” Shutting down this brain fogging indulgence will open up an array of empowering, fertility-enhancing habits to integrate. There are tons of helpful tips in today’s episode, so don't miss out!
Important Links:
www.instagram.com/naturna_life
www.instagram.com/naturallycb
www.facebook.com/Naturnalife
www.facebook.com/DrChristinaBurns
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
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Episode Summary:
Let's talk herbs! If you are like many women, you may have a cabinet full of items meant to “enhance” fertility. The trouble is, it's not one size fits all. The herbs mentioned in a magazine or blog might be good for one woman and not so much for the next. Furthermore, it can be downright harmful to take certain herbs on the fertility journey.
What's a girl to do? Well, the most powerful herbs I've seen clinically for fertility are Chinese herbs. Chinese herbs are, in fact, considered to be much more effective than acupuncture for the treatment of tough cases of infertility. I’ve seen these ancient formulas have a much greater impact on hard-to-treat issues such as; premature ovarian failure, perimenopause, egg quality issues, ovulatory issues, and failed implantation. Tune into this session to hear the research backing these ancient herbal gems, as well as what to expect if you decide to try them out. You don’t want to miss out!
Important Links:
www.instagram.com/naturna_life
www.instagram.com/naturallycb
www.facebook.com/Naturnalife
www.facebook.com/DrChristinaBurns
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Anyone going through the fertility slug can acknowledge the effect it can have on our sex life. If you are struggling with sexual connection as you try to make a baby, then this session is for you.
In this week's episode, we are joined by Dr. Denise Wiesner L.Ac, who is an acupuncturist, intimacy coach, fertility expert and author of Conceiving With Love. She has been featured in Goop, Psychology Today, and many other publications touting the importance of igniting that "flame." Though Denise acknowledges that you don’t need intimacy to make a baby, she believes in leading with love and maintaining a sexual connection. Denise takes us through typical conversations with her patients that help them re-establish intimacy. She believes that this loving connection is important for everything from baby making to child rearing, and overall satisfaction with your relationship. With humorous anecdotes, she touches on communication tips and other tricks to help us reconnect. This episode is not to be missed!
Important Links:www.instagram.com/naturna_life
www.instagram.com/naturallycb
www.facebook.com/Naturnalife
www.facebook.com/DrChristinaBurns
Guest Bio:Dr. Denise Wiesner, DACM, L. Ac, Dipl. Ac has been in practice since 1994 with an emphasis on women’s issues and pain control. She treats women’s conditions in various stages of life – from menstrual disorders, infertility, pregnancy to menopause. She has experience treating women using Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), including assisting embryo transfers at many fertility clinics. She is board certified by the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (ABORM). She has interned with Randine Lewis, Ph.D., author of The Infertility Cure, and is a charter member of the Fertile Soul™ Clinic Excellence in Fertility program. She is also certified in the Hunyuan Fertility Method. She is the author of the upcoming book, Conceiving With Love, a whole-body approach to creating intimacy, reigniting passion, and increasing fertility.
She has taught MD Obstetrician-Gynecologists and Nurse-Midwives professional seminars on applying for Chinese Medicine in obstetrics and gynecology. She is also a faculty lecturer for the Doctorate Fertility Program at Yosan University.
Guest Links:https://naturalhealingacupuncture.com/
https://www.denisewiesner.com/
https://www.instagram.com/denisewiesnerlac/
Thanks for Listening:
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Episode Summary:
Have a hunch that something is off, but you can’t quite pin it down? In many cases, we are harboring low-grade infections that we aren’t even aware of. There are several that can impact our fertility under the radar. This week’s spotlight is on Candida, a common and very stealthy fungal infection usually influenced by what we eat. Think sugary, yeasty, and/or acidic foods and drinks (ahem, wine, candy, baked goods), overeating raw foods or food in general, fermented food and drink, or an abundance of refined grains. It can also increase if you’ve used antibiotics, birth control, IVF meds, or have hormonal imbalances or digestive issues. So if you have symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, bloat, fluid retention, sweet or carb cravings, PMS, yeast infections, UTIs, implantation failure, or unexplained infertility, then listen up!
In this week’s episode, we are digging into all the details of candida and how it affects fertility. I will also guide you to integrate a nutritional plan that is anti-yeast, anti-inflammatory, insulin-sensitizing and will assist in creating the desired fertility outcomes. So make sure to listen in and get the scoop on this fungal foe!
Important Links:
www.instagram.com/naturna_life
www.instagram.com/naturallycb
www.facebook.com/Naturnalife
www.facebook.com/DrChristinaBurns
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Many subtle influences are impacting our conception efforts. A lot of research has been conducted to assess how nutrient deficiencies can affect our fertility. In this week’s episode, we are digging into a very under-the-radar fertility influencer. Subclinical anemia or a deficiency of iron or ferritin doesn’t get a lot of attention. But I argue that these are a big deal! 60% or more of women become iron deficient during pregnancy, so isn’t it arguable that we may already be low on reserves when trying to conceive? We are menstruating females after all. We lose blood regularly! Not to mention poor quality foods, lack of variety, and the pervasive digestive issues that affect the absorption of nutrients.
Iron is something that our body needs to perform many functions, such as energy distribution. Low reserves can affect our energy levels, mood, and of course, our ability to conceive. It may manifest as not ovulating, or perhaps a thin uterine lining, and/or implantation failure for some women. Tune in to this session to get the scoop on what to look for and what to do about it.
Important Links:
www.instagram.com/naturna_life
www.instagram.com/naturallycb
www.facebook.com/Naturnalife
www.facebook.com/DrChristinaBurns
Thanks for Listening:
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www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
In this week's episode, we are joined by women's health fitness expert Kimberly McFerron. We adventure through the nuances of our monthly cycle and how to cater to your exercise regime to optimize hormonal balance and overall wellness. Kimberly had a wild ride with endometriosis, which helped her wake up to the idea of using lifestyle practices as medicine. She has tested out variations of diets and exercises to heal her endometriosis to go on to have a healthy pregnancy. This week’s episode is full of great information for those looking for exercises and ways to balance their hormones to increase fertility. Tune in today!
Guest Bio:
Kimberly has lived in Portland, New York (twice), Seattle (twice), and Indonesia. She has spent the last decade and more devoting her time as a director in many facets throughout the health and wellness sector. From management, operations, and development to franchising, growth strategy, and expansion to acquisition and team building, she has provided guidance and leadership in boutique, corporate luxury, and stand-alone fitness and wellness brands around the globe.
Simultaneously Kimberly has put years into research and development of the human body. Her motivation began by wanting a deeper understanding of healing herself from competitive gymnastics injuries, a dance career, and recovery from childbirth. When she started this journey, injury healing and prevention meant getting a sheet of exercises from a physical therapist, and postpartum recovery didn’t exist. So Kimberly began a true grassroots exploration with a collection of colleagues in pelvic floor therapy, physical therapy, massage, functional range movement, manual manipulation, and anatomical understanding. This led her down a path of understanding how to truly curate purposeful and goal-oriented movement concepts that serve the individual human, not the market trends.
**Connect with Kimberly:
Website:** https://www.kimberlymcferron.com/about
Instagram:www.instagram.com/kimberlymcferron
www.instagram.com/thelimitlesspregnancy
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com Subscribing to The Podcast:
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Episode Summary:
There’s a lot of buzz about alkaline water these days. So what’s all the fuss about optimizing your pH level? An overly acidic internal pH can wreak havoc on our health. Inflammation, mood issues, weight gain, yeast overgrowth, hormonal irregularities, and fertility, just to name a few. A lesser-known consequence is the proliferation of yeast, bacteria, fungi, and viruses that thrive in an acidic environment. These microbes can feed on hormones leading to hormonal deficiencies. They can also interfere with implantation of a healthy embryo. Last but not least, the inflammation and free radical damage that occur as a side effect of acidity can hamper both egg quality and implantation. Tune in TODAY to get the scoop!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
Ever heard that an inherited thrombophilia, a.k.a. clotting disorder could be implicated in miscarriages and unexplained infertility?
In this week's episode we touch on Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin and MTHFR. (Note that I’m a bit of a fast talker in this one, so get ready to ingest some quick info!)
The majority of women with these conditions have healthy pregnancies, but if you do have unexplained infertility and/have suffered losses, these might be worth a look. Much of the time, it’s best to work with the cards you’ve been dealt. Sometimes simple lifestyle changes and a boost from natural medicine can assist with reducing the effects of these genetic mutations. This week's episode contains some quick DIY information for those seeking insight on the connection between unexplained infertility or miscarriages and blood clotting disorders. Tune in TODAY!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to hear it, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
If you are looking for options to preserve your fertility, or perhaps you know a friend or family member who doesn't quite have their head in the game despite the ticking clock, then tune in to listen to Dr. Kort’s wisdom on the subject of egg freezing. Fertility Expert Dr. Daniel Kort, double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, gives us the scoop on success rates, ideal candidates, how to assess the quality of a lab, and more. Dr. Kort brings tons of advice to the table today, so don’t miss out on a great episode!
Guest Bio:
Originally from Kansas City, Dr. Kort earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and completed his Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility training at Columbia University in New York. While at Columbia, he completed research in conjunction with the New York Stem Cell Foundation, studying genetic errors during early embryo development.
He is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. In addition, Dr. Kort has served as a Clinical Instructor in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
When not helping women and couples get pregnant, Dr. Kort is busy making oatmeal, changing diapers, and chasing his three small children around Central Park with his wife, Lesley.
Guest Links:
Dr. Daniel KortInstagram
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
We all want to know if there is something within our control that could change the course of our fertile destiny, right? There are, in fact, stealthy fertility foes affecting egg quality and crushing IVF outcomes. In this episode, I share evidence of a correlation between a certain chemical found in our water bottles (and several other less obvious places) that quite literally affects embryo quality and is implicated in IVF failures. Tune in to get the scoop.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
The majority of us don't plan much when it comes to getting ready for a baby. We just decide it's time to try and get going. However, what if you could be optimizing your fertility in advance? There is, in fact, a system you can follow to prepare body and mind for conception. This protocol will also very likely speed your path to baby.
While some of you are just embarking on your fertility journey, I’m sure many more of you are already entrenched and want to know what you could be doing to up your odds of success. Whether you are planning to get pregnant, or already in the thick of it, this week's episode will shed light on some of the things you could do to optimize your fertility. Tune in today!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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Episode Summary:
In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we are joined by Dr. Briana Rudick, Director of Columbia University Fertility Center's Third Party Reproduction Program. She discusses the different options for pursuing parenthood, including sperm donation, donor eggs and gestational carriers. She also touches on her recommendations as to how to manage the anxiety and stress that overtakes us on the journey.
Whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or you have reached the end of the road trying with your own eggs/sperm/uterus, Dr. Rudick brings the info you need to get in the know about your options. Tune in TODAY.
Guest Bio:
Briana Rudick, MD directs Columbia University Fertility Center's Third Party Reproduction Program, and is active in community events supporting the LGBTQ+ community. She is involved in all aspects of third party reproduction including fertility care for same sex couples, co-maternity, egg donation, and gestational surrogacy. She sees and treats all forms of infertility, including ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, and fertility preservation.
Dr. Rudick joined the Columbia faculty in 2011. After completing her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Pennsylvania, she completed a fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. She is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.
Dr. Rudick has conducted research to study the effect of Vitamin D on fertility and treatment outcomes and she has written editorials on the importance of fertility education for young women. Her research involving egg freezing has been featured in numerous journals, blogs and magazines such as Cosmopolitan. She serves as a current reviewer for Fertility and Sterility Reports, a high-impact journal in her field, and was awarded the top reviewer certificate in 2020 for her contributions. She believes that integrating holistic approaches with state-of-the-art scientific and medical fertility treatment can result in a more satisfying experience for many patients and allow patients to make the best fertility decisions for themselves.
Guest Links:
Dr. Briana Rudick
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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Do you find yourself struggling to make good decisions about food at certain times in your cycle? Or perhaps you haven’t identified a pattern yet, but know something is amiss. Whether you are sneaking chocolate a few days before your period, or dealing with insatiable hunger for weeks at a time, this episode is for you.
I think most of you understand when I bring up the notion of naughty food habits leading up to your period. For some it's sweets, others it's salty. For others it could be carbs or comfort foods (i.e. pizza, mac & cheese or pasta). For many, chocolate is a common culprit, and we don’t feel bad about it because it's healthy, right? If we give into our cravings here and there, then it's no big deal. For most of you that's the case, but for some there is a more severe lack of control that is leading to binge eating, affecting health, and causing low self esteem. Not to mention that it can be hard to break the habit once your period comes. So, I'm sure if you’re tuning into this episode, you are probably interested in knowing WHY you are having said cravings and learning what to do about them. Tune in to hear all the nitty-gritty on food cravings and how you can get them under control!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
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Episode Summary:
In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we are joined by fertility hero, Katie Fitzgerald. If you want to hear the story of a woman who weathered it all and came out on top, then this one's for you. Katie went through a rollercoaster of an infertility journey. From an autoimmune disease to miscarriage to repeated IVF failures, she kept finding the strength to try again. As a nutritionist, Katie used the power of nutrition, alongside natural medicine, to help her weather the storm of side effects that come with IVF, and eventually succeeded with her efforts, now being a mother of two. Her journey inspired her to develop a hormone balancing supplement for women called Knowell. Tune in today to learn more!
Guest Bio:
Katie Fitzgerald became a nutritionist out of a desire to help women live happier, healthier lifestyles. Working in private practice in New York City, She listened to so many women describe their frustrations and challenges—symptoms they couldn’t make sense of and results they weren’t reaching in spite of their best efforts.
Katie was also surprised to observe that many women were woefully undereducated about the importance of hormone health, reproductive function, and how these things impact overall health. As a health professional, she sympathized with the fact that they couldn’t find evidence-based resources that could speak to them about hormonal health in a relatable way. Katie wanted to do something about this disconnect.
Besides her formal education in clinical nutrition, Katie’s knowledge of hormonal imbalance came from intimate and personal experiences. She and her husband struggled for six years with infertility. Using two different clinics, Katie underwent four rounds of IVF and suffered five miscarriages.
Guest Links:
www.knowell.com
www.instagram.com/knowellbody
www.facebook.com/knowellbody
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we discuss the effects of exercise on fertility and how the release of certain hormones can hinder your fertility. High intensity exercises can decrease fertility due to certain hormones being released at a higher rate during exercise. Depending on the individual, intensity and frequency of exercise can determine if the activities are beneficial while trying to get pregnant. The main goal is to balance out your day to day activities to allow your body to have the energy to produce eggs to foster implantation. I also discuss about the recommended exercises that can still get you moving, including walking, light yoga, or even pilates. The goal is to minimize the intensity of movement to increase the possibility of fertilization and encourage a smooth pregnancy. Remember less is more! Today’s episode has a lot of helpful information for those seeking advice about exercising and still maintaining fertility!
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Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
@naturna_life | Linktree
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Caught up in the fertility grind? In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we discuss how to create space in our lives to enhance wellness and fertility. When you do not create a good mental space for yourself, you are left feeling stressed and disconnected from your body. You may grow more desperate everyday, hindering your ability to conceive. When you find balance in your work, pay attention to your mental and physical health, and eat better, your fertility and emotional wellness will thrive. Christina talks about three tips to remember when creating a good space to thrive. The first being that you should take regular pauses to allow your body and mind to process through your emotions, thoughts, and the constant planning that you are engaging in. Second being to just say no if you feel overwhelmed! And lastly, carve out time for relaxation and self-care. Today’s episode is full of helpful advice to increase your fertility and mental space, so you don't want to miss this!
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Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
@naturna_life | Linktree
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In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we are joined by Fertility Hero Mika Oakes. Mika and her husband conceived their first child easily. Three years later they decided to try for their second child. Mika had irregular periods, didn't track ovulation, and started having recurring issues with eczema. She soon realized this time around wasn't going to be as easy as the first. Mika shares that the key to finally conceiving was to uncover and shift limiting beliefs through energy healing modalities. Whether or not the metaphysical realm is your cup of tea, her perspective is worth a listen. Tune in today!
Guest Bio:
Mika Oakes is the founder of Moloco, a swimwear line tailored to fit the needs of breastfeeding mothers. She has taught yoga for the last ten years and is a licensed massage therapist. Mika applies both western and eastern techniques that support the individual needs of her clients. She also specializes in pre/post natal massage and yoga for all moms in any stage of pregnancy. Mika and her husband reside in Brooklyn, New York with their two kids, a seven year old boy and ten month old daughter.
Connect with Becky:
www.mikaoakes.com
www.instagram.com/molocoswim
Thanks for Listening!
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
@naturna_life | Linktree
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In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we are joined by Dr. Eric Forman, MD, HCLD, the Medical and Laboratory Director at Columbia University Fertility Center. Dr. Forman discusses the nuances of egg and embryo quality, and how they determine what makes a viable egg and embryo for fertilization. Dr. Forman also talks about PGT, preimplantation genetic testing, done on embryos to determine the chromosomal status of IVF embryos by screening all 23 pairs of human chromosomes. The pair discuss what outside factors contribute to the quality of an embryo and what happens if the embryo does not get tested.
Guest Bio:
As the Medical and Laboratory Director at Columbia University Fertility Center, Eric Forman, MD, HCLD, oversees the medical practice as well as the IVF embryology and andrology laboratories. He also actively sees patients with infertility and those seeking to preserve their fertility. Dr. Forman has extensive clinical and laboratory research experience. He has published more than 40 articles in peer-reviewed journals on a wide range of topics in assisted reproductive technology (ART).
He has a special interest in using preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) to optimize IVF and improve selection for elective single embryo transfer (eSET). He also has an interest in fertility preservation, and a study he led proved that egg freezing using the rapid vitrification technology does not increase the risk of genetic abnormalities in the resulting embryos.
Dr. Forman specializes in providing individualized patient care to solve each unique couple’s challenge. He is active on social media where he frequently writes blogs and commentaries on important topics in reproductive medicine and the patient/physician experience.
When not working, Dr. Forman enjoys spending time with his wife and three children, running (including completing the 2016 NYC Marathon with Team Every Mother Counts), learning how to play ice hockey and rooting on his favorite sports teams, the Mets, Knicks, Rangers and Duke Blue Devils.
Connect with Dr. Forman:
Facebook @EricFormanMD
Twitter @EricFormanMD
Instagram @ericformanmd
Thanks for Listening!
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@naturna_life | Linktree
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In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we discuss Myo-inositol, an all-star supplement for ovarian and hormonal health. Research shows amazing benefits for women on the PCOS spectrum. However, it's also amazing for those who have a tendency to have issues with insulin and blood sugar. Not sure if this is a fit for you? Tune into this episode to get intel on the finer details of how "nature's metformin" helps improve hormone health, moods, fertility and IVF success.
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www.naturnalife.com
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Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
In today’s episode of Fertility in Focus, we are joined by Becky Fawcett. She decided to start having children at the age of 31 and soon found out she was infertile. After a strenuous period of five rounds of IVF and three miscarriages, Becky and her husband entered the world of adoption. Now with two wonderful adopted children, Becky has built a wonderful national, non-religious affiliated, non-discriminatory adoption grant program called helpusadopt.org. Becky chats about her infertility and adoption journey and how it inspired her to help others grow their families through adoption.
Guest Bio:
Becky Fawcett is the founder and president of Helpusadopt.org, an equality based organization that seeks to reduce the financial burden of adoption by awarding large, life-changing, problem-solving grants.
After graduating from Franklin & Marshall College, Becky had a successful career in the magazine industry, first for Baltimore magazine, and then for Philadelphia magazine as the director of marketing. In 1999, she founded The Fawcett Group, a full-service public relations and marketing firm with offices in New York City and Philadelphia.
After adopting their first child in 2005 (and their second in 2009), Becky and Kipp were so grateful to have the financial means to adopt that they decided to make a donation to an organization that would help ease another family’s financial burden. Sadly, they could not find an adoption grant organization that was based on a mission of equality. To address this need and help all types of families, they founded Helpusadopt.org in 2007. Under Becky's leadership, Helpusadopt.org has grown from a kitchen-table organization into a strong, national presence with a full time staff of four, board of twenty two, hundreds of volunteers, and thousands of donors.
Connect with Becky:
www.helpusadopt.org
Becky Fawcett (@becky.fawcett) • Instagram photos and videos
Helpusadopt.org (@helpusadopt) • Instagram photos and videos
@helpusadopt.org | Linktree
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Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me.
Repeated unsuccessful attempts at implantation are crushing. Whether you are trying naturally or are undergoing IVF and have encountered repeated failed cycles, this is the episode for you. I'm going to walk you through reasons why this might be happening and break down solutions to explore. The good news is that this is an area that can be quickly remedied with the right protocol.
Feeling gooey like you’ve packed on some pounds after an IVF cycle? Or perhaps it’s the fat suit that descends on your body right before your period? Whether it’s medicated fertility treatment or your natural hormonal imbalance causing the trouble, this episode has got you covered. Tune in for the scoop on how to effectively shed hormone induced weight gain.
Did you know that boosting hormonal health and fertility could be as simple as incorporating yummy seeds at specific times in your monthly cycle? Tune into this episode to get the scoop on this game changing inexpensive and easy nutritional habit.
Want to know my top picks for fertility enhancing vitamins? In this week's episode, I discuss how Vitamin D can be your most important fertility ally. Whether undergoing IVF or trying naturally, Vitamin D will very likely speed your path to pregnancy and make you feel more emotionally and physically well along the way.
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Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, press subscribe and leave a review. Are you or a loved one trying to conceive and have found this podcast to be helpful and supportive? Please share with them! We would love to be able to reach more people like you and walk with them on their journeys to conception.
Wondering about all the buzz regarding inflammation and fertility? In this episode, I'll explain why and how inflammation can impact egg quality, implantation and conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. This is followed by a shortlist of the foods that one might avoid to calm down the inflammation that might be throwing off your fertility. Take actionable steps now!
Jen is a quintessential Type A overachiever who figured out that her fast paced lifestyle was having a major impact on her fertility. Fast forward to today with 2 healthy children and a new perspective, Jen joined us to chat about the stress-fertility connection, PCOS and how tuning in with fertility acupuncture and nutrition was a game changer for conception and quality of life overall.
Your “Microbiome” may be just the key to getting you knocked up. In this episode we explore your digestive health and the influence of bacteria, fungi and the like on overall fertility, implantation and IVF outcomes.
Considering donor eggs? In this episode Dr. Hade gives us the scoop on how to assess an ideal uterine environment, what to look for in donor and how to optimize your chances of success.
Is there a right way to cleanse? There sure is! Especially when trying to conceive. Tune in for the skinny on when and how to detox when trying to get pregnant. Learn the basics on how to maximize the fertility enhancing benefits and avoid any negative impacts on your baby making efforts.
Wondering if acupuncture really works? Tune into this episode to hear proof that acupuncture can be an amazing ally on your fertility journey. I'll touch on research that explains the benefits of acupuncture to improve IVF success as well as the particulars on building uterine lining, assisting implantation, reducing stress and offsetting the unpleasant side effects of fertility medications.
In today's Fertility Hero episode, Sayeda walks us through her philosophy on breaking the silence around infertility and female body awareness. She shares her passion on the importance of community, education, and diversity in transforming the fertility narrative.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Kim takes us on her 7 year infertility/IVF journey. Hear her heartfelt story, the ins and outs of her IVF treatment in Europe, from failed outcomes to pregnancy loss to how she miraculously changed the course of her fertility journey. Hint - there was a wellness component that helped her improve egg and embryo quality and go on to form the beautiful family that she has today.
Episode Summary:
Think sugar couldn't possibly have that much of an impact? Think again! In this episode, I'll walk you through exactly what sugar and insulin imbalances can do to your fertility. Best part? It's within your reach to make these simple changes and boost your fertility outcomes!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:
Kind, empathic, and progressive, Dr. Meir Olcha shares with us his take on patients like family, the scoop on mini IVF, fertility supplements, and more.
Episode Summary:
Think sugar couldn't possibly have that much of an impact? Think again! In this episode, I'll walk you through exactly what sugar and insulin imbalances can do to your fertility. Best part? It's within your reach to make these simple changes and boost your fertility outcomes!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:
In this episode we dive into the mental and emotional impact of fertility, as well as best strategies to manage the ups and downs. Dr. Snyder gives us a sneak peak into her own journey, paired with expert advice as to how to get through it, whether that means medication, nutrition, or lifestyle.
Episode Summary:
Think sugar couldn't possibly have that much of an impact? Think again! In this episode, I'll walk you through exactly what sugar and insulin imbalances can do to your fertility. Best part? It's within your reach to make these simple changes and boost your fertility outcomes!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:
Think sugar couldn't possibly have that much of an impact? Think again! In this episode, I'll walk you through exactly what sugar and insulin imbalances can do to your fertility. Best part? It's within your reach to make these simple changes and boost your fertility outcomes!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:
Get the scoop on one of the most influential fertility hormones. In this episode, I'll walk you through the role FSH plays, why it can make or break an IVF cycle, and tips on how to get it within a healthy range to conceive a pregnancy.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:
Some of us have biological clocks that are ticking faster than others. Your ovarian reserve can be a major indicator of how well you'll respond to IVF treatment, as well as hardship on a natural path to conception. In this episode, I'll walk you through what your ovarian reserve really means for your fertility, as well as strategies to boost your odds of conception.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:We have so many amazing tools available to us in the realm of IVF, but sometimes it's hard to figure out which ones to go for. In this episode, I'll tell you about the pros and cons of pre-genetic testing, as well as who might want to consider it or avoid it based on their unique fertility profile.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:
If hormones seem like a mystery to you, then this episode is for you. Through BBT charting, you have the opportunity to understand your hormonal rhythms and master the timing of intercourse. No more relying solely on pee sticks to identify your fertile window. Tune in today to learn how to master your hormonal rhythms and nail your fertility window!
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode Summary:
Feeling crazy and emotional unstable is a common side effect of the fertility journey, especially when things aren't going the way you had hoped. But there are simple ways to stay sane! Tune in today to get 3 practical tips to maintain your sanity and feel emotionally well on the path to baby.
Thanks for Listening:
Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would love to listen, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode, or want to be a guest on the show? Leave a comment in the section below or visit the website to contact me!
www.naturnalife.com
Subscribing to The Podcast:
If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Amazon, or whatever your favorite podcast app is!
Leave Us an Apple Podcasts Review:
Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.