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 medicineHow herbs are manufacture & deemed safe for distributionWhy traditional chinese medicine is growing in popularityThe 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.comSubscribing 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: - the recommended supplements for your IVF cycle - the critical connection between lifestyle and IVF success - the difference between mini iVF and conventional IVFThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 chocolateWhy overconsumption of chocolate could be harmful to overall health and fertility What to avoid if consuming chocolateThanks 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.comSubscribing 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.comSubscribing 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 dietThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 moreHow 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.comSubscribing 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 conceiveTips to maintain a balance of good and bad bacteria The importance of lifestyle in maintaining your internal environmentThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 importantHow 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.comSubscribing 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: @quantumheartincwebsite: www.quantumheartinc.comSubscribe 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 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.comSubscribing 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 habitsHow blood sugar issues and inflammation affect fertilityThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 forThe pros and consThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 isIts importance in facilitating a healthy pregnancy Its effect on reproductive healthThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 fatsThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 beveragesThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 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 cycleThe positive and negative effects of exercise on hormones and fertilityWhat type of exercise is best for which phase of the cycle and whyResearch on exercise and hormonesThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 infertilityTune 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 dietThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 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 challengesHow to supplement low iron through nutrition and supplementationThanks 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.comSubscribing 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 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.comSubscribing 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 periodsThanks 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.comSubscribing 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!