Mastering Your Fertility

In episode 96 I say hello again to the Mastering Your Fertility audience after taking more than a year off from podcasting! I share the reason I've taken so much time away from the podcast and share the direction I'm planning to take the show and the Tiny Feet practice going forward. Tune in to hear about some new topics coming to the podcast and some new resources you can expect to see over the coming months.  Take your free quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Design your prenatal supplement protocol: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Book a complimentary call with me to discuss working 1:1 together: Schedule Now!

In episode 95, I share some insights on two of the most important questions you can ask yourself and your healthcare providers as you move through your fertility journey. If you haven’t guessed yet by the episode title, those two questions are “Why?” and “What Else?”. These are the questions you should be prepared to ask at every appointment with every practitioner you see when it comes to your fertility (and your health) and they're not always comfortable questions for a lot of providers to answer. These two essential inquiries are what guide my work with 1:1 clients, they’re the foundation of my courses and group programs, and they’ve also guided me through my personal health and fertility journey. Tune in to learn how you can apply them to your health and fertility situation, and how they can help guide your treatment decisions. You can find show notes for the episode and links to referenced resources at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/95. Learn more and enroll in the January class of Functional Fertility Healing!

In episode 94, I interview nutritional therapy practitioner and neural retraining coach, Madeleine Lowry, about using a powerful emotional healing modality (MAP Method™) to overcome both physical and emotional blocks to optimal health and fertility. By working with the subconscious mind, which controls about 95% of our thoughts, behaviors, and physiological functions each day, MAP can help clients overcome painful memories, deeply ingrained patterns of chronic stress, limiting beliefs, self-sabotaging thoughts and behaviors, and traumatic experiences, which can have a profound impact on every aspect of health, including fertility. Madeleine and I discuss: Her personal journey that led her to nutritional therapy and neural retraining The importance of the brain, nervous system, and subconscious mind in physical and emotional well-being What MAP is and the science behind how the method works What a typical MAP session looks (and feels) like and what you can expect as a client My life-changing experience with MAP and how it's helped me make profound shifts in my life and health Some of Madeleine's favorite stories about major changes she's seen in others with MAP MAP is an amazing modality for working through the pain and heartbreak of infertility or pregnancy loss, as well as helping support positive changes in physical and emotional health that can boost fertility. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Madeleine's website and some of the books and resources we discuss at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/94. NOTE: MAP is not a substitute for working with a licensed mental health professional. If you have a diagnosed mental health condition or significant mental health symptoms, please ensure you're working with a licensed mental health professional before considering MAP as an adjunct therapy. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 93, I answer a series of questions I've received recently from listeners! If you've missed any of the past Q&A episodes, be sure to check out episodes 64, 68, 72, 77, and 81. This week, I'm answering questions about: The best ways to confirm ovulation each month The stress-infertility connection and how to reduce stress when you can't change your job or life circumstances Low estrogen with normal (or high) luteal progesterone levels How to address low T3 thyroid hormone when TSH and T4 are normal Possible causes of and solutions for vulvodynia (vulvar pain) How often to test thyroid or hormone labs if you're struggling to conceive Timing for diet and lifestyle changes prior to an IVF egg retrieval Possible causes of hair loss  How to get your partner on board with changes to support fertility You can find show notes and links to resources discussed during the episode at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/93. If you have a topic you’ve been wanting to learn more about, send me an email at info@tinyfeet.co or shoot me a message on Instagram @tinyfeet.co and share your question. I'll get back to you shortly with an answer and then add your question to the list of potential topics for future Q&A episodes. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 92, I interview Jasmine Katatikarn about her experience going through infertility and IVF. Jasmine shares her whole fertility story and talks about how she was able to take control of her journey with a mindset and approach that she adapted from her work as an artist. This is a unique and inspiring interview and I’m excited to have Jasmine on to share her perspective and what ultimately worked for her to build her family, even after being told she has a less than 1% chance of having a child! You can find show notes for the interview, along with links to Jasmine's website, social media, and free fertility training at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/92. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 91, I interview acupuncturist and fertility expert, Heidi Brockmyre, about using acupuncture and Chinese medicine to get your cycle back on track and boost fertility. Acupuncture is an amazing healing therapy that is being recommended more and more for fertility support, even by Western medicine. It's effective and it can help you increase your odds of pregnancy, whether you're trying naturally or using conventional fertility treatments. Heidi and I talk about: What the Chinese medicine approach to fertility looks like and how it’s different from standard fertility care How acupuncture can support each phase of the menstrual cycle Specific cycle issues or reproductive health conditions that acupuncture can help treat When the best time is to begin receiving acupuncture for fertility How you can learn more from Heidi through her online resources and programs You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Heidi's website, online program, and free resources at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/91. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 90, I interview Certified Women's Health Coach and author of Fix Your Period, Nicole Jardim, about how to get to the root cause of PMS and PMDD so you can balance your cycle and support your fertility. Although having unpleasant symptoms around your period might not seem like a big deal (after all, the vast majority of us have experience PMS symptoms at one time or another), these symptoms actually provide an important window into the health of your menstrual cycle and, by extension, your fertility. PMS and PMDD symptoms can also disrupt your life and cause you to dread the second half of your cycle, which is no way to live when these issues are so addressable! In this episode, you're going to learn about: What PMS and PMDD are and how they're different from one another Why women who are trying to conceive need to pay special attention to PMS or PMDD symptoms The main driving forces behind PMS and PMDD and which body systems tend to be most out of balance What you can do to address the root causes of your symptoms and get your cycle and fertility back on track When you should consider seeking out support from a practitioner  You can find show notes for the episode along with links to Nicole's website, book, and free quiz at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/90. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 89, I interview Naturopath, midwife, and women's health expert, Dr. Jennifer Mercier. We talk about the hands-on therapy she developed to help women struggling with infertility and pelvic health issues. Mercier Therapy is a deep pelvic organ visceral manipulation technique that can help restore normal anatomy and blood flow in the pelvis. This can have a profound effect on menstrual cycle health, ovarian function and hormone production, which encompass many of the underlying causes of trouble conceiving. Clinically, Mercier Therapy has been shown to be effective in addressing endometriosis, diminished ovarian reserve, luteal phase defect, PCOS, recurrent miscarriage, and several other issues. It can either be used as a standalone therapy or in preparation for IUI/IVF and it’s proven incredibly successful in achieving pregnancy, even in difficult cases. In this episode, you'll learn: What women need to know about conventional fertility treatment options that are often not shared by doctors What led her to the creation of Mercier Therapy as a possible solution to fertility struggles How Mercier Therapy works and the specific issues or conditions it can help address Mercier Therapy success rates in comparison to mainstream fertility treatments and how it can also be used in preparation for IUI or IVF How to find a practitioner trained in Mercier Therapy if you’re interested in exploring it yourself You can find show notes for the episode and links to Dr. Mercier's website and documentary at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/89. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 88, I interview chiropractic physician, Dr. Ann Barter, about mold exposure and it’s potential impact on health and fertility. Although many people have heard that encountering certain types of mold can be harmful, few people realize just how common mold exposure really is and all the ways it can disrupt health. Many of us have been unknowingly exposed to mold in water-damaged buildings, our homes, and even our food supply. Unfortunately, mold exposure isn’t always obvious and the health symptoms it can cause are wide-ranging and frequently confused with other conditions. The reason we’re talking about mold on a fertility podcast is that it can be a hidden source of inflammation and stress on the body, leading to immune system dysfunction and hormone imbalances that can make it very difficult to conceive. Thankfully, it is absolutely possible to test for and remediate mold issues in your environment, as well as heal from mold illness if you’ve been exposed and experienced negative health effects!  In this episode, you’ll learn about: How mold exposure can impact health and fertility Some of the most common symptoms that might point toward mold exposure and illness The primary routes of exposure to mold in our environment Why some people react very strongly to mold while others seem to experience no ill effects Some of the options for testing for mold in our external environments as well as in our bodies The basic elements of an effective healing protocol for mold illness You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Dr. Barter's website and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/88. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 87, I interview Certified Fertility Care Practitioner and Integrative Health Coach, Melissa Buchan, about how to effectively chart your mentstrual cycle to evaluate and support your fertility. Learning to chart is one of the most proactive and empowering things you can do to understand your body, participate in your healthcare, and take control of your fertility journey. Melissa walks you through: The difference between tracking your period and charting your cycle and why this distinction is important The specific components of a well-charted cycle and what information we get from these markers How you can use your chart to identify important patterns and potential issue that may lead to trouble conceiving How to change your mindset around charting to alleviate any stress you might be feeling about it Some of the apps and devices on the market that can make charting easier The most common mix-ups women make when learning to chart You can find show notes for the episode and links to Melissa's website and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/87. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 86, I interview acupuncturist and herbalist, Dr. Jill Blakeway. We talk about her book, Making Babies: A Proven 3-Month Program for Maximum Fertility, and discuss some of the differences in approach and treatment options for infertility in conventional versus Chinese medicine. Jill is such an incredible wealth of knowledge and has spent decades in clinical practice with patients, helping them make beautiful healthy babies. This week, you'll learn about: Jill’s take on how heavily IVF is being relied upon for fertility treatment Why more natural options aren’t being presented to couples struggling to conceive and what aspects of health and wellness are most overlooked in a fertility setting How the Chinese medicine approach to fertility differs from the conventional approach The 5 fertility types that Jill and her co-author, Dr. Sami David, discuss in their book, Making Babies Why it’s so important for women and couples to receive individualized treatment for fertility You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Jill's website, book, and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/86. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 85. I interview Elyse Ash, who is the founder of a fertility mentorship company called Fruitful Fertility. Those of us who have struggled with our fertility know how frustrating and isolating the experience can be. It’s not always easy to open up to friends or family and it’s difficult to receive the support we need from people who have never been through what we’re dealing with and simply don’t know what to say or how to help. I invited Elyse on to the show to talk about why it’s so important to get the right kind of support through this journey and the solution she and her husband came up with to match people who are currently going through infertility with those who have already completed their journey in a mentor-mentee relationship. I’m excited to share Fruitful with all of you as an option for adding to your support network and building a relationship with someone who knows what you’re going through and can offer you an ear, a shoulder, or a helping hand as you continue on your path to parenthood. In the interview, Elyse and I discuss: Her personal infertility story and what she went through to become a mother Why it’s so important for us to find people we can truly confide in as we go through fertility struggles Her perspective on opening up to friends and family and some advice on dealing with uncomfortable conversations The story behind Fruitful and what ultimately led Elyse and her husband to start the company What you can expect from Fruitful and the logistics of how the service works You can find links to the Fruitful website and some additional resources at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/85. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 84, I interview Joanne Verkuilen, the founder of a company called Circle & Bloom that provides incredible guided meditation and visualization programs for people going through infertility and other health challenges. I’ve been spending a lot of time on the podcast recently talking about mind-body healing, and that’s because it’s such an important area of health and wellness that many of us struggle to create space for in our lives. It’s also something that conventional providers rarely, if ever, acknowledge as an important piece of creating a fertile environment in our bodies. I regularly recommend Circle & Bloom programs to clients and also use them myself, so I’m excited to have Joanne on the show to talk about: Her personal fertility story and what inspired her to start Circle & Bloom How guided visualization works and the science behind how it improves health and fertility The connection between stress and trouble conceiving (and the unexpected forms stress can take) What you can expect from the fertility enhancement programs that Circle & Bloom offers You can find links to the Circle + Bloom website and Joanne's social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/84. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 83, I'm covering different types of hormonal imbalances than can impact fertility. Both low and high levels of certain hormones can be equally problematic for fertility and can manifest in specific symptoms that can help you identify what might be going wrong in your body. Although you can’t definitively diagnose yourself with a hormone imbalance based on symptoms alone, you can share your observations with your providers and advocate for deeper investigation. In this episode, we’ll be talking about each major type of hormone imbalance, what the common symptoms are, the possible underlying causes, tests you can consider to investigate the problem further, and some possible therapies you can discuss with you practitioner to restore balance. We'll be talking about: High estrogen Low estrogen Low progesterone Low testosterone High testosterone Low thyroid hormone Dysregulated cortisol You can find show notes for the episode at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/83. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 82, I interview acupuncturist and certified hypnotherapist, Michelle Oravitz, about using hypnotherapy to shift our thoughts, beliefs, and overall mindset to support fertility. While hypnosis might sound a little out there to some of you, there’s actually a strong scientific basis for how and why it works and it is recognized as a legitimate psychological tool. Because most of our thoughts and behaviors in a given day are governed by our subconscious mind, making lasting changes to how we think, feel, believe, and act on a daily basis requires us to tap into the subconscious and change what’s happening in the brain’s autopilot mode. Thoughts and beliefs can have a significant impact on fertility outcomes and, if you’ve been struggling on your journey for a while, chances are you’ve developed some beliefs and thought patterns about your body or your chances at motherhood that aren’t serving you. In this episode, Michelle is going to teach you about: What hypnotherapy is, how it works, and some of the misconceptions about its use The specific and measurable changes in brain activity that make hypnotherapy such an effective tool for changing subconscious beliefs How this benefits fertility and some of the issues or conditions that tend to respond well to this approach How hypnotherapy integrates with acupuncture and Chinese medicine The logistics of what you can expect with with hypnotherapy - how to find someone to work with, online vs. in person sessions, and how many sessions you should plan to have You can find show notes for the episode and links to Michelle's website, podcast, and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/82. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 81, I address the topic of systemic racism in health and fertility care and also do a shortened Q&A session for the month of June. The reason I chose to include the racism discussion with the Q&A episode is that it brings up an important question that I’ve had to ask myself and a question I'm sure people of color in this audience want to know the answer to as well, which is “What am I doing to understand, confront, and combat racism in myself and in my business?” I discuss some important statistics that highlight the disparities in health and fertility care between BIPOC and white communities and then share some amazing books and resources I've come across to learn more about the issue of systemic racism and how to address it, both personally and collectively. For the Q&A portion of the show, you'll learn about: Iodine deficiency, supplementation, and thyroid function How to address poor sperm motility for male partners CoQ10 for improving female fertility and egg quality Getting a proper assessment and diagnosis for PCOS What days to test for the various fertility hormones You can find show notes for the episode and links to all the resources I mention on racism and further learning from the Q&A at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/81.

In episode 80, I interview yoga instructor, registered psychotherapist, and founder of Yoga Goddess, Zahra Haji. We talk about how yoga and meditation can support you on your fertility journey and why it’s so important to be incorporating a mind-body practice when you’re trying to conceive – especially if you’re struggling to get pregnant. Throughout the interview, you’ll learn about: The science behind how trauma and negative beliefs or conditioning can impact our ability to conceive and how meditation can help us through these issues What research is saying about fertility success rates when a mind-body practice that combines yoga and meditation is included in the treatment plan More about Zahra’s Moon Goddess online program and how a kundalini yoga practice specifically supports hormone balance and the pituitary gland What it means to cycle with the moon, the different types of moon cycles, and the different energies we feel during the phases of our menstrual cycles Why it’s important for us to heal our relationship with our bodies, embrace our femininity, and believe in our power to create life You can also find links to Zahra’s website, social media, and online program at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/80 Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 79, I interview Ayurvedic practitioner, Heather Grzych, about how Ayurveda can helps us understand our bodies and our fertility from an Eastern medicine perspective. I know there are a lot of people out there who really resonate with a more Eastern approach to health and I wanted to bring someone on that could share more about it. Heather just released a book called The Ayurvedic Guide to Fertility, which shares the principles of Ayurvedic medicine and how you can use it to optimize your health and fertility as you prepare to conceive. In this episode, you'll learn: What Ayurveda is and how it approaches health and fertility The Dosha system of evaluating body types and categorizing health imbalances How our mindsets around our menstrual cycles and reproductive systems impact fertility The 4 fertility factors in Ayurveda and how these impact our ability to conceive Our intellectual mind versus our primal mind and why we need to find balance between the two More about Heather’s book, The Ayurvedic Guide to Fertility You can find show notes for the episode and links to Heather's website, book, and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/79. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 78, I interview acupuncturist and women’s health and fertility expert, Aimee Raupp. We dive into how the immune system impacts fertility, particularly with autoimmune processes, and how to heal from immune system dysfunction and optimize overall health to conceive. We pay special attention to how thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and trauma can cause increased inflammation in the body. Inflammation is what really sets the stage for the development or worsening of immune and inflammatory problems that can negatively affect several aspects of fertility – from our hormones, to our egg quality, to our ability to sustain a pregnancy. Throughout the episode, you’ll learn about: How thoughts and beliefs affect the physical body and why it’s so important to focus our attention here during fertility challenges Why we need to stay connected and in tune with all aspects of health during this journey, not just our hormones and menstrual cycles What autoimmunity actually is and some of the symptoms or conditions that might indicate that an autoimmune process has started in your body Ways we can start to reconnect and change the way we think about and talk to ourselves How Chinese medicine and acupuncture can support immune system healing, overall health, and fertility You can find show notes for the episode and links to Aimee's website, books, social media, and resources we discuss in the interview at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/78. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 77, I'm sharing the question and answer session for the month of May. If you missed the last few months of Q&A episodes, be sure to check out episodes 64, 68, and 72. This week, I'm answering questions about: Organic vs. conventional produce Addressing chronic Lyme disease Recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea Symptoms around ovulation, such as cramping and bleeding What it means to have a low basal body temperature How long your luteal phase should be and what to consider if it’s too short Possible causes of cold hands and feet Reasons for high cholesterol levels You can find show notes and links to other podcast episodes we reference at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/77. If you have a topic you’ve been wanting to learn more about, send me an email at info@tinyfeet.co or shoot me a message on Instagram @tinyfeet.co and share your question. I'll get back to you shortly with an answer and then add your question to the list of potential topics for future Q&A episodes. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 76, I interview naturopathic doctor and holistic fertility specialist, Dr. Aumatma Shah, about restoring and maintaining fertility into your 40’s. With so many couples waiting until later in life to start their families, it’s more important than ever to be proactive and empowered when it comes to your fertility. Whether you’re currently struggling to conceive with advanced age or you’re simply looking for advice on how to extend your reproductive years and alleviate some of the biological clock anxiety that comes along with getting older, this episode can definitely help. You’ll learn about: Why conventional lab markers used to assess fertility really don’t present a complete picture of your fertility potential Which factors are most important to consider with fertility struggles and advanced age How much time older couples should consider spending on natural approaches before adding in conventional treatment What couples over age 35 can do to proactively support their fertility, even if they have no reason to suspect an issue with conceiving The importance of mindset in cultivating a fertile environment in the body How masculine vs. feminine energy can affect fertility in both partners and some advice on keeping your marriage alive during the fertility journey You can find show notes for the episode and links to Dr. Aumatma's website, book, and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/76. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In epsiode 75, I interview fertility health coach, Samantha Kellgren, about exercise for fertility and the importance of eating enough and maintaining adequate body fat to balance your cycle, maintain healthy hormones, and support a pregnancy. We also talk a lot about Samantha’s personal experience with hypothalamic amenorrhea and her journey of recovery that involved significant changes to her exercise and nutrition routines. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why overdoing it on exercise and keeping body fat too low is so detrimental to fertility Some of the red flags that might indicate a problem with your food or fitness habits How you can find support to make changes in these areas to support your fertility What type and amount of exercise is actually recommended for optimal fertility What it was like for Samantha to make these changes and successfully overcome HA and have a beautiful healthy baby You can find show notes for the episode and links to Samantha's website and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/75. Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Schedule your 20-minute phone consult!

In episode 74, we give a warm send-off to Dr. Haylee as she departs the podcast to focus on her local practice, her health, and growing her family. (Don’t worry, Mastering Your Fertility will continue on with Kristin hosting solo!) We’ve had so much fun running the podcast together over the past year and a half and we’re honored to have shared so much valuable information with you as a team. Tune in to learn more about Dr. Haylee’s future plans, both personally and professionally, and some of her favorite memories and episodes from the podcast. You can find show notes for the episodes and links to Dr. Haylee’s website and social media at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/74. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult Enroll in FERTILE IN 5 MASTERCLASS for a special "stay home" price Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 73, we're helping you navigate the incredibly frustrating world of "unexplained infertility." If you've received this diagnosis (or lack thereof), you know how disheartening it is to be told by doctors that they can't find any medical reason that you're struggling to conceive - and yet there you are, still waiting for that positive test. Usually, couples who are labelled unexplained are referred to conventional fertility treatment so that science can try to control for as many variables as possible in the conception process. But is that really all that can be done? We definitely don't think so! There are so many other factors that can influence fertility, beyond what is typically investigated by an OBGYN or fertility clinic. This episode is going to help you explore your options for getting more concrete answers on what might be happening with your fertility and what natural approaches you can consider to address underlying health issues and get your baby journey back on track! You can find show notes for the episode and links to other resources we discuss at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/73. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult Enroll in FERTILE IN 5 MASTERCLASS for a special "stay home" price Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 72, we're doing our question and answer session for the month of April. If you missed the last few Q&A episodes, be sure to check out episodes 64 and 68. This week, we’re answering questions about: Our thoughts on conceiving during the COVID-19 pandemic How to look deeper into issues like chronic yeast infections, clots during your period, facial hair growth, and spotting between periods How to approach fertility and preconception prep while breastfeeding What to do if your period doesn’t return after a miscarriage The best options for bioidentical progesterone Imbalances in T4 and T3 hormones on a thyroid panel Possible effects of pea protein on fertility You can find show notes and links to other podcast episodes we reference at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/72. We’re always looking for more questions to include in upcoming episodes! If you have a topic you’ve been wanting to learn more about, send Kristin an email at info@tinyfeet.coor shoot her a message on Instagram @tinyfeet.co and share your question. She'll get back to you shortly with an answer and then add your question to the list of potential topics for future Q&A episodes. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult Enroll in FERTILE IN 5 MASTERCLASS for a special "stay home" price Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 71, we interview Nutritional Therapist, Angela Heap, about the impact of the vaginal and uterine microbiome on fertility. In other words, how the bacteria and other microorganisms in your reproductive tract can actually influence your ability to get pregnant and carry successfully to term. The new research coming out on this topic has huge implications for women struggling with infertility and definitely has the potential to change treatment protocols for assisted reproductive procedures in the future. Tune in to learn about: How the vaginal and uterine microbiome affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes Specific species that are supposed to live in the vagina and how they protect us from harmful organisms and infection Which lifestyle and environmental factors have the biggest influence the reproductive microbiome How we might see changes to IUI and IVF treatment protocols as microbiome research continues to unfold What women can do to investigate and improve vaginal and uterine microbiome health You'll definitely find this episode helpful if you experience issues like recurrent UTIs or yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, vaginal itching, discharge, or odor, or you have a previous history of group b strep during pregnancy. It will also be helpful in for those with endometritis, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, hydrosalpinx, and thin uterine lining or implantation failure during fertility treatment. You can find show notes for the episode and links to resources we discuss in the episode at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/71. Enroll in FERTILE IN 5 MASTERCLASS for a special "stay home" price!

In episode 70, we talk all about progesterone with naturopathic doctor and women’s hormone expert, Dr. Carrie Jones. Progesterone is one of our most important hormones for reproductive health and we know many of you have been wondering about how to look into the root cause of low progesterone and, of course, how to increase your levels to support fertility and a healthy, full-term pregnancy. Tune in to learn from Dr. Jones about: Where and how progesterone is made in the body and why it’s so important for reproductive health How to properly assess your progesterone and what level is optimal for fertility Specific health and lifestyle factors that influence progesterone production and what symptoms might point toward low levels Why it’s important to focus on more than just the luteal phase when trying to improve progesterone production The most effective natural approaches to getting progesterone back on line so you can support fertility and a healthy menstrual cycle You can find show notes for the episode at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/70. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult! Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 69, we discuss what you should be talking to your doctor about when it comes to preconception care. In other words, how to make sure you receive important medical care that can help you prepare for the healthiest possible pregnancy, starting at least 3 months before you want to get pregnant. The current reality in the U.S. is that only about half of doctors are aware of the current preconception care guidelines and even fewer of them are actively sharing the full list of these topics and interventions with their patients. The purpose of today’s episode is to help you have a better understanding of what the preconception guidelines are and why they’re important so you can prepare for your doctor’s appointments and ensure you get the best care possible. You can find show notes for the episode at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/69. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult! Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Fertile in 5 Masterclass

In episode 68, we're doing our second question and answer session and covering 10 awesome questions we've received recently from listeners. You'll be learning more about balancing hormones (especially progesterone), exercise for fertility, improving cervical mucus production, medications during preconception and pregnancy, breast pain after ovulation, and more! If you have a question you’d like to have featured on an upcoming episode, go ahead and email your question to Kristin at info@tinyfeet.co or send her a DM on Instagram @tinyfeet.co. You'll receive an answer to your question within a few days and then we'll choose a handful of questions to include in an upcoming episode. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to all the resources we discuss at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/68. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult! Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 67, we dive into what's considered "normal" in conventional medicine versus what's OPTIMAL in functional medicine when it comes to fertility hormone testing. Although it's common for doctors to test hormone levels in women after a couple struggles to conceive for 6-12 months (depending on age), there's a lot more to hormone testing than just making sure that you fall within the lab reference range for each test. A functional perspective looks at what levels provide the best chance of conceiving and carrying to term for a couple, not just whether it's possible to get achieve a pregnancy. Tune in to learn more about optimal hormone levels for both men and women, including: Which tests should be considered in a fertility evaluation and what each test is used for When each test should be completed during a woman's cycle The functional ranges for FSH, LH, Estradiol, AMH, Progesterone, Testosterone, DHEA-S, and TSH Other options for evaluating hormones in the context of fertility You can find show notes for the episode at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/67. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult! Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 66, we interview Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and author of The 4-Week Endometriosis Diet Plan, Katie Edmonds, about many of the underlying health issues that can contribute to endometriosis and how to develop an effective whole-body healing protocol to reduce your pain and restore your fertility. Katie shares her personal journey with endo and infertility and then we start diving into some of the most important aspects of healing that simply aren't being shared with most women diagnosed with this condition. While there might not be a "cure" for endometriosis, that doesn't mean that you're destined to live in pain and struggle to build your family. In fact, many of the common symptoms associated with this disease are not even driven by the presence of the endo lesions themselves, but are actually a result of other health issues that tend to occur alongside endo, such and gut dysfunction ( think "endo belly"), nutritional deficiencies, blood sugar imbalances, and immune system dysfunction. This episode will help you completely reframe the way you think about endometriosis and open up a whole world of options you didn't know you had to start feeling better and give yourself the best possible chance at a healthy pregnancy. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Katie's website, book, and ebook at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/66. Schedule your 20-minute phone consult! Free mini-course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Free Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?

In episode 65, we welcome real food dietitian and author of Real Food for Pregnancy, Lily Nichols, back to the podcast. Lily helps us understand why there’s so much conflicting dietary advice out there, why nutrition science is so messy, and how we can change the way we think about research and government guidelines so we can find out what really nourishes each of us on a personal level. There is no single perfect diet that works for everyone and it’s important for us not to get so caught up in dietary dogma that we forget to be in touch with what supports our health individually and makes us feel our best. If you're ready to let go of strict food rules and obsessive macronutrient tracking, and instead focus on the nutrient-density and overall quality of the foods you’re eating, this episode is definitely for you! You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Lily's book and blog at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/65. Schedule a FREE 20-Minute Phone Consult Free course on How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 64, we answer some of the questions we've been receiving from listeners via social media and email and also dig into some interesting topics and questions that have come up lately with our clients and patients. Our goal is to share an episode like this every month or two so that our entire audience can benefit from the questions that we’ve been answering privately. If you have a question you'd like to have included in a future episode, go ahead and email your question to Kristin at info@tinyfeet.co or send her a message on Instagram @tinyfeet.co. You'll receive an answer to your question within a few days and then we'll choose a handful of questions to include in an upcoming episode. This week, we’ll be answering questions about detoxification, thyroid labs, folate and B vitamins, coffee while trying to conceive, supplements for men to consider during preconception, and more! You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to all the resources we discuss at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/64. Schedule a FREE 20-Minute Phone Consult Free course on How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 63, we interview women's health and hormone expert, Dr. Anna Cabeca, about how to overcome a diagnosis of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). Many women receive these diagnoses in a fertility clinic and are told that they’re essentially going into menopause – sometimes even in their late 20’s or early 30’s. It’s a heartbreaking diagnosis and one that traditional fertility medicine can’t offer much hope for. IVF is often not even recommended for patients with these issues because doctors typically see a poor response to stimulation medication. But, if you’ve received a DOR or POI diagnosis, we’re here to share some hope with you! It IS possible to recover ovarian function and get pregnant with your own eggs. The key is to find out what’s causing your ovaries to lose vitality and function and address it from a root cause perspective. In this episode, we're going to be talking with Dr. Cabeca about her personal experience recovering from a diagnosis of early menopause, what we know from research and clinical experience about what can cause or contribute to this devastating issue, and what women can do to start recovering their hormones, egg quality, and fertility. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Dr. Cabeca's website, social media, book, and free "Slim, Sane, and Sexy" ebook on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/63. Schedule a FREE 20-Minute Phone Consult

In episode 62, we interview functional digestive health and SIBO expert, Dr. Allison Siebecker, about testing, treatment, and long-term prevention of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). In the U.S. 10-15% of the population is suffering with IBS and two thirds of these cases occur in women. Newer evidence shows that more than 60% of IBS cases are actually caused by SIBO, making this a major issue affecting women's health and, ultimately, fertility. IBS and SIBO can lead to nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities, hormone imbalances, autoimmune conditions, and systemic inflammation, all of which impact reproductive health in a negative way. We're excited to have Dr. Siebecker with us today to talk about how you can find out if you have SIBO, what causes it, and how to get effective treatment so you can regain your health and support your fertility. This episode is for anyone who is struggling with their digestive health, especially those with regular symptoms of bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, or both. You can find show notes, along with links to Dr. Siebecker's many amazing SIBO resources at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/62. Download your quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Schedule a FREE 20-Minute Phone Consult Learn more about Dr. Siebecker's SIBO Courses SIBO Pro Course (Practitioners) SIBO Recovery Roadmap (Patients)

In episode 61, we share the top books we recommend for preconception, fertility, and women’s health. There are so many incredible authors and experts out there, many of whom we’ve hosted as guests on the podcast over the past year. We wanted to take this week to share our top picks for reading material when you’re trying to conceive and/or trying to work out imbalances with your hormones and cycle. You’ll learn which books we recommend, what you can expect to learn from each one, and who can benefit most from the information shared. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to all the books we talk about and any corresponding podcast episodes, on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/61. Free course on How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Download your quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Schedule a FREE 20-Minute Phone Consult

In episode 60, we talk about how to choose the right approach for you and your partner when it comes to preconception preparation or fertility treatment. Whether you’re just staring to think about getting pregnant, or you’ve been struggling for years with infertility, there’s a lot of information out there about how best to support your body to conceive and carry a healthy baby to term. If you’ve been listening to us for a while, you know that we typically present a more natural and holistic approach to health and fertility. But there’s a whole host of more conventional options available, as well as lots of approaches that integrate both natural and holistic principles. In this episode, we talk you through some of the most important factors that you and your partner should consider when you’re thinking about what the next step on your journey should be. You can find show notes for the episode on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/60. Schedule a FREE 20-Minute Phone Consult

In episode 59, we dive into natural solutions for healing acne. Although acne might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to fertility, it can definitely be a sign of underlying health issues or hormone imbalances that may affect your ability to conceive. Plus it’s just an all-around frustrating problem deal with! Given how connected all of our body systems are, it should come as no surprise that the strategies that help clear up your skin can also have a profound effect on your overall health and your fertility. In this episode, you'll learn: The major underlying causes for acne and why it’s not just a simple topical issue in most cases Lab tests that can help you get to YOUR specific root cause and how to access them Conventional treatment options for acne and why these really won’t help you if you’re trying to conceive Natural ways to heal your acne from the inside out AND optimize your health, hormones, and fertility in the process You can find show notes for the episode on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/59. Resources we discuss in the episode:  Download your FREE quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Learn more about genetic SNP testing and order your own kit

In episode 57, we talk through some of the challenges that come up during the holidays when you're trying to conceive or going through fertility treatment. We share some of our own experiences and give you practical advice for handling difficult emotional situations, setting boundaries with friends and family, and balancing healthy eating against the stress of too much restriction. Tune in to learn more about: Preparing for awkward questions and tough encounters at holiday gatherings How to draw clear boundaries with those close to you and decide which events you'll attend  Choosing to either share your story and educate those around you or keep things to yourself How to avoid excessive stress about healthy eating at dinners and parties Important things to consider when you're deciding whether to make exceptions to your fertility diet  You can find show notes for the episode on our website at: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/57 Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Schedule a FREE 20-minute consult: Book Now!

In episode 56, we interview Naturopathic doctor and women’s health and fertility expert, Dr. Khivan Oberoi, about natural treatments for PCOS. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is one of the most common reproductive health conditions affecting women. It’s estimated to contribute to up to a third of infertility cases and it can also increase the risk of developing other chronic health conditions throughout life. Unfortunately, conventional medicine is pretty short on options for women with PCOS to optimize their health and fertility, which is why it’s so important to increase awareness of natural treatments that are both safe AND incredibly effective. We’re very excited to have Dr. Oberoi with us to share her knowledge and expertise about how women with PCOS can start working toward better metabolic health, balanced hormones, regular ovulation, and improved fertility! In this episode, you're going to learn: The diagnostic criteria for PCOS, which tests should be considered, and why this can be a difficult condition to accurately diagnose The major driving factors behind PCOS and how it can manifest differently in different women How the naturopathic approach differs from conventional medicine when it comes to fertility Specific nutrition and lifestyle recommendations that can have a huge positive impact on hormone balance and ovulation frequency And important pitfalls to be aware of with PCOS treatment and how to avoid them You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Dr. Oberoi's website and resources she discusses, on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/56. Fertile in 5 Masterclass: Learn more How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements: Enroll for FREE

In episode 55, we interview Fertility Awareness Educator, host of the Fertility Friday Podcast, and author of The Fifth Vital sign, Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, about how to track your menstrual cycle for fertility. We know a lot of you out there might have some hangups and misconceptions about fertility awareness, so Lisa is going to share some her vast knowledge about charting and hopefully help you all feel a little more comfortable with getting in touch with your body in this way. In this episode, you're going to learn: Why it’s worth giving fertility awareness a try and what you can learn about your body through cycle tracking Why having a regular menstrual cycle WITH monthly ovulation is an important indicator of health and wellness How hormonal birth control actually works and why it can be problematic for cycle health and fertility Misconceptions about fertility awareness and why it’s really not the time-consuming, painful process you might think it is The logistics of tracking your cervical mucus and basal body temperature and what these parameters can tell you about your fertility How you can use Lisa’s book, The Fifth Vital Sign, and her companion charting workbook to get started with tracking with your cycle You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Lisa's books, podcast, and social media on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/55. Fertile in 5 Masterclass: Learn more How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements: Enroll for FREE

In episode 54, we interview fertility blogger and miracle mommy, Anna Rapp. After being told that she would never be able to get pregnant naturally and that not even IVF would work for her, Anna started doing her own research on what she could do to support her fertility and improve her hormone levels. Her initial goal was to convince her doctor to least let her try IVF. But, after 3 months of working on her diet, lifestyle, toxic exposures, and mind-body wellness in preparation for an IVF cycle, she ended up getting pregnant naturally with her first miracle baby. She now has two beautiful children and has started a blog called "To Make a Mommy" that helps walk other women through how to start making changes to reclaim their fertility. In this episode you’re going to learn all about: Anna’s fertility story, including many of the things she did to beat the odds and get pregnant naturally with both of her children Why it’s important to take control of your own journey and be willing look beyond conventional fertility treatments The different approaches you can take to making diet and lifestyle changes and how to figure out what will work best for you How your mental and emotional wellbeing affect your baby journey and why it’s so important to focus on more than just getting pregnant when you’re going through fertility struggles Anna’s favorite resources for diving into the natural fertility approach, including more information about her own blog and Facebook groups You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to some of Anna’s top blog posts and favorite resources here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/54. Fertile in 5 Masterclass: Learn more How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements: Enroll for FREE

In episode 53, we interview naturopathic doctor, fertility specialist, and author, Dr. Elizabeth Cherevaty, about how we can use diet to optimize egg quality and increase the odds of success during IVF treatment. Dr. Liz recently published a book called IVF Meal Plan, which will be released on December 3rd, 2019. The book helps educate couples about the impact of certain nutrients on fertility and then walks them through a 28-day meal plan they can use to prepare for their upcoming treatment cycle. Throughout the episode, Dr. Liz shares with us: The current state of the research on nutrition for egg quality and fertility success Why it's so important for male partners to be participating in the IVF preparation process Which dietary pattern has been proven most effective for both male and female fertility  Why building an integrative team can really help you personalize your IVF preparation and boost your success rates How her book, IVF Meal Plan, is set up and how it's designed to be used by couples going through fertility treatment You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Dr. Liz's website, book, and social media here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/53. Fertile in 5 Masterclass: Learn more How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements: Enroll for FREE

In episode 52, we interview chiropractor and women's health champion, Dr. Danielle Ayres, about how we can support fertility from a structural and neurological perspective. Dr. Danielle’s focus is on helping women improve their quality of life, reduce stress reactivity, and increase stress resilience through a unique combination of chiropractic tools. So many women struggling with fertility experience a massive increase in stress and, while stress may not cause infertility in the majority of cases, it certainly doesn’t help the situation and it can significantly reduce our ability to heal our bodies, recover our fertility, and just generally experience joy and happiness in our lives. Dr. Danielle talks about some of the reasons that we can get stuck in this constant fight or flight stress response and what we can do, both on our own and with professional help, to start to unwind it to support better health and a more fertile body. Today you'll learn: The goal of traditional chiropractic care and how Dr. Danielle’s approach is both similar and different The different types of nervous system signaling and how these affect whether our body is calm and relaxed or tense and on edge What fascia is and how it impacts the tension in our bodies, as well as our neurological state How all of this ties into fertility and how Dr. Danielle approaches care for women trying to conceive Types of movement we can incorporate into our daily lives to bring more balance to the nervous system and turn down the stress response How to seek out professional support, when necessary You can find show notes for the episode, as well as links to Dr. Danielle's website and the resources we discussed in the interview here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/52. Fertile in 5 Masterclass: Learn more How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements: Enroll for FREE

In episode 51, we interview naturopathic doctor and microbiome researcher, Dr. Andrea McBeth, about how important the gut microbiome is to your future baby's development, immune system programming, and long-term health. We continue to explore gut health in-depth on the podcast because this is such a critically important area to focus on during preconception, not only for your own health and fertility, but for your baby’s health as well. In this episode, you're going to learn: How the gut microbiome influences baby’s health throughout life, starting even before conception with mom’s gut health The many different health conditions that are linked to microbiome imbalances Specific keystone species that babies need in their guts to grow up healthy and where to find them Major factors that disrupt the microbial ecosystem in our bodies and why this has such massive implications for human health What we can do to protect our microbiome and also encourage healthy microbial growth in our babies The amazing future possibilities of Fecal Microbiota Transplant for treating a variety of microbiome-linked health conditions You can find show notes for the episode and links to the research we discuss in the episode here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/51. Looking to get to the bottom of your own gut issues? Schedule a FREE 20-minute consult with us! Learn more: Fertile in 5 Masterclass Free mini course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 50, we interview naturopathic doctor, Jocelyn Strand, about strategies for both investigating and addressing gut imbalances. Although we've talked many times on the podcast about gut health, this is the first time that we've really dug into therapeutic supplementation and discussed some of the specific products we use in clinical practice to help our clients restore gut balance and improve fertility. This is a great episode for everyone to listen to, but will be especially helpful if you're dealing with digestive symptoms, hormone imbalances, PCOS, endometriosis, autoimmune conditions, unexplained infertility, allergies, skin issues, depression, or anxiety. Throughout the episode, Dr. Strand explains: What the term "dysbiosis" means and which factors contribute to gut imbalances How our gut microbiome is connected to overall health and specifically our fertility Some of the ways we can investigate gut health issues What biofilms are and why a biofilm disruptor is important for a successful gut protocol Specific formulas we use in practice to address gut imbalances and how they work You can find show notes for the episode and links to the research we discuss in the episode here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/50. Looking to get to the bottom of your own gut issues? Schedule a FREE 20-minute consult with us! Learn more: Fertile in 5 Masterclass Free mini course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 49, we interview massage therapist and abdominal therapy practitioner, Barbara Loomis, about how abdominal massage and visceral manipulation can improve quality of life and fertility for women. This is a great episode for anyone suffering from digestive health issues, painful periods, adhesions from prior abdominal surgeries or endometriosis, emotional trauma, or infertility. Throughout the episode, Barbara teaches us: Why our abdominal organs are so intimately connected to our emotions The difference between visceral manipulation and abdominal massage and what each is used for What adhesions are, how they cause physical symptoms, and what this might feel like How uterine positioning affects our menstrual cycle health and fertility How you can start on self-massage at home or find a practitioner near you   You can find show notes for the episode as well as links to Barbara's website and the abdominal therapy resources we talk about here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/49 Book a FREE 20-minute consult with us: Schedule Now Fertile in 5 Masterclass: Learn more How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements: Enroll for FREE

In episode 48, we interview Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, certified Geobiologist, and electromagnetic field (EMF) expert, Brian Hoyer. In our modern world, we're exposed to technologies and frequencies that our bodies have never experienced in human history, like cell phones, wireless, magnetic fields, and even the electricity in our homes. We don't think about these exposures because we can't see or hear them in our environment and there's been very little rigorous long-term safety testing for their effects on human health up to this point. But there's now growing evidence that EMFs actually can cause harm to our bodies and can even affect fertility. Brian has dedicated his career to understanding and educating the public about EMFs and owns a company called Shielded Healing. He and his team travel the country doing home assessments for EMF exposure and making recommendations to help consumers protect themselves during the time it matters most: at night when they sleep! In this episode, Brian shares: The different types of EMFs we're exposed to and the specific technologies they come from How these frequencies can cause disruptions in our bodies, including with fertility and baby's development Simple, low-cost steps you can start taking right now to limit your exposure to EMF How you can get a more thorough assessment of your home environment and transform your bedroom into an EMF-free healing space We also talk about Kristin's personal experience working with Brian to assess her home and shield her bedroom space against multiple types of EMF.  You can find show notes for the episode, the studies we discuss in the interview, and links to Brian's website and social media here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/48 Learn more about our online course FERTILE IN 5 MASTERCLASS! Get access to module 3 of the course for FREE by enrolling in How to Choose The Best Prenatal Supplements!

In episode 47, we interview naturopathic doctor, women's health expert, and author of The Period Repair Manual, Dr. Lara Briden. She shares the very interesting connection between our sex hormones (especially estrogen) and histamine. When you see the word histamine, you probably immediately think of an allergic response. In fact, the primary way we treat allergies in conventional medicine is with anti-histamine medications. But histamine actually participates in A LOT of other functions in the body, including our digestion, mental health, sleep, libido, hormone production, and menstrual cycles. It's obviously pretty important, but having too much of it in the body can really cause problems. And if you're suffering from things like heavy/painful periods, PMS or PMDD, menstrual migraines, painful breasts, anxiety, insomnia, and allergic symptoms, then histamine definitely needs to be on your radar! Tune in to learn more from Dr. Briden about how histamine is connected to hormones and fertility, how we can sometimes end up with too much histamine in our bodies, and what to do about it. You can find show notes and resources for the episode, along with links to Dr. Briden's website, book, and social media on our website at: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/47. ONLINE DIY COURSE > FERTILE IN 5 MASTERCLASS  LEARN STEP 3 OF THE COURSE FOR FREE! > HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PRENATAL SUPPLEMENTS Tania Dempsey's Mast Cell research paper

In episode 46, we interview fertility acupuncturist, nutritional therapist, and founder of The Fertility Kitchen, Charlotte Grand. She shares some amazing practical strategies we can use to start implementing better nutrition to support fertility and a healthy pregnancy. Most of us have a pretty good idea of WHAT we’re supposed to do to improve our diet, but the HOW is where we tend to get tripped up. So if you’re having trouble ditching junk food, eating healthy on a budget, or even learning how to cook with real-food ingredients, this episode is for you! We start off by talking about Charlotte’s personal fertility journey that brought her to acupuncture, nutrition, and The Fertility Kitchen. And in the rest of the episode we discuss things like: How to train our brains into healthier habits so we can finally leave sugar and processed foods behind Simple ways we can add more variety (AKA nutrients) into our diets without becoming master chefs Why things like organic, seasonal, and non-GMO matter and how you can eat this way without breaking the bank How to make healthy eating simple and approachable, even if you’re super busy or just not that into cooking We also talk a little bit at the end about acupuncture and how this amazing healing modality can support you on your fertility journey. You can find show notes for the episode and links to Charlotte's website and social media on our website at: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/46. Take the FREE quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? 

In episode 45, we dive into the extremely important topic of mental health issues and help you understand how conditions like depression and anxiety can affect reproductive health. While the conventional medical model views mental health conditions as "chemical imbalances" that require drug therapy to correct, we view mental health symptoms as a clue to something deeper going on in the body. Contrary to what we've all been taught, the brain is not a separate entity from the rest of the body and there is a complex interplay between the brain, the gut, and the immune system that is not being taken into account in mainstream psychiatry. There are many underlying factors that can either directly cause or worsen mental health issues, and addressing these factors with natural therapies can lead to incredible healing for those who are suffering - often without the unwanted side effects of antidepressant/psychotropic medication. Throughout the episode, we discuss: What depression and anxiety are and the many possible symptoms associated with them The major factors underlying mental health symptoms and why antidepressant drugs don’t address them How mental health issues are related to your fertility and why it’s so important to investigate your symptoms before conceiving Steps you can take to improve your mental health and heal your body from the inside out  You can find show notes for the episode and links to all the resources we discuss on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/45. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are currently taking medication, we are NOT suggesting that you discontinue it! You should never stop taking antidepressant or psychotropic medications without first consulting with your doctor and putting together a carefully monitored plan for tapering slowly off of these drugs. Stopping cold-turkey can be extremely dangerous and damaging to your health.  Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?

Herbal medicine can be a little scary for those that are thinking of having a baby or trying to conceive. You may be asking, "are the herbs safe to take?" "What happens if I get pregnant, will they hurt the baby?" You may just feel overwhelmed with the options and not sure if you're making the right choice for your unique situation. In today's episode, we go over 8 botanical herbs that are known traditionally and clinically to be helpful in fertility: Black cohosh, Chaste Tree Berry, Dong Quai, Red Raspberry Leaf, Tribulus, Rhodiola, Shatavari, Wild Yam. These herbs are safe when taken is recommended doses from a reputable source. If you find out you're pregnant while taking these herbs, it's important to work with a licensed practitioner to know what's safe to continue. Most of the herbs we discuss should be stopped once you have a positive test. At the end of the episode, we name a few of our favorite herbal blends to use with our clients.  You can find show notes for the episode and link to resources we discuss on our website here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/44. Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?

In episode 43, we interview functional nutrition expert and certified autoimmune paleo coach, Brandy Cummings. She talks about the details of the autoimmune protocol and her experience using it in practice to help women suffering from inflammatory symptoms conceive successfully and have healthy babies. Throughout the episode, we discuss the specific dietary guidelines that make up AIP and the reasoning behind them, the often ignored (and equally important) non-food aspects of autoimmune healing, and how AIP can specifically benefit fertility. Tune in to learn more about how you can use diet and lifestyle to address inflammatory symptoms and and get your fertility back on track! You can find links to Brandy's website, social media, and the resources we talk about in the episode on our website here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/43.  Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?

In episode 42, Kristin opens up about her infertility journey, the many things she’s learned along the way, and why she’s actually thankful that she wasn’t able to conceive when she wanted to. Infertility is hard - and we’re not going to pretend otherwise. But, like any challenge in life, it’s also an opportunity. As Kristin struggled to understand why she couldn’t conceive, she discovered life-changing information about her health, developed a profound sense of control and responsibility for the wellbeing of her future children, and experienced enormous personal growth, both individually and with her partner. Tune in to hear her story, her perspective on how infertility CAN change your life for the better, and her advice for those who are having a hard time going through this process. You can find show notes for the episodes and links to all the resources we discuss on our website at: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/42. Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? 

In episode 41, we talk about what it looks like to take a functional approach to fertility and preconception care. We've talked before on the podcast about what to expect if you needed to seek out testing or treatment from a conventional fertility clinic, but this week, we want to tell you more about OUR approach to fertility and give you some options that you may not have considered before. Throughout the episode, we discuss: What functional medicine is and how it’s different from conventional medicine Why you don’t actually have to choose between the two when it comes to your fertility What our intake process looks like and which basic blood tests we recommend all potential clients seek out with their local providers The 4 functional labs tests we use in our practice and when we typically recommend them How we combine all the information from your intake and labs to build a completely customized healing protocol just for you! We also talk about the two things we CAN’T do for you through Tiny Feet and share some others ways we can help you aside from becoming a one-on-one client. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to all the resources we talk about, on our website at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/41. Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? 

Naturopathic Doctor and co-host of this podcast, Haylee Nye, talks about her recent healing journey with breast implant illness (BII). Millions of women with supposedly benign breast implants are suffering from mystery symptoms, including unexplained infertility or miscarriage. The vast majority of doctors will never suspect that breast implants could be the cause of their suffering. It takes women years, even decades, to find out that the cause was sitting right inside of them all along. This is what happened to Dr. Haylee and that’s why it’s important to her to tell her story to help spread the word about this important issue.  She offers a unique perspective as a naturopathic doctor who’s also dealing symptoms of BII.  In this episode, you’re going to learn:  Common symptoms related to breast implant illness Why breast implants can cause trouble conceiving and miscarriage What are the appropriate steps to take if you think you have BII And natural therapies that will help you heal while you are exploring your options BII is not curable unless you have an explant surgery – and Dr. Haylee’s is scheduled on August 20th 2019. You’ll learn all about how she came to this decision in the episode. We’ll be updating you on the progress of her recovery in upcoming episodes. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to all the resources we talk about, on our website at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/40 Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?  

In episode 39, we’re teaching you everything you need to know about thyroid health while trying to conceive. Screening for thyroid issues before and during pregnancy is NOT routine practice for conventional medical providers in the U.S. But we consider this one of the most important preconception tests a woman can receive and we advocate for universal screening, especially because not all cases of low thyroid function cause obvious symptoms. In this episode you’ll learn what your thyroid does and why it’s so important for fertility, pregnancy, and baby’s development, the symptoms and possible underlying causes of thyroid dysfunction, how to get the right testing and interpretation for your thyroid labs, available treatment options for low thyroid and how to choose the one that's right for you, and how to investigate and address the root cause of your thyroid issues so you can actually heal your body instead of just manage your symptoms. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to all the resources we talk about, on our website at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/39. Take the FREE Quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?  

In episode 38, we interview certified life coach and mind-body fertility expert, Spenser Brassard. We talk about what really causes pain and suffering for women struggling to conceive and why perfectionism and negative thought patterns actually have just as much power to affect our fertility as poor health, diet, and lifestyle. And, of course, we talk about how we can start to overcome some of these issues, find true joy and happiness (even before that positive test shows up), and significantly boost fertility in the process! You can find links to Spenser’s website, online program, and social media on our website at:  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/38.   Get your FREE download: Fertility Recovery Guide

In episode 37, we interview holistic health coach and environmental toxins expert, Lara Adler, about how to reduce common exposures that can interfere with fertility. We discuss surprising facts and common misconceptions about toxins, why lower doses are often more concerning than higher doses when it comes to hormone balance and fertility, which chemicals we need to focus on avoiding, and some of the simple, affordable steps we can take to protect ourselves and our future babies. Cleaning up our environments doesn't have to be crazy stressful or expensive. Listen in to learn how to get started! You can find show notes for the episode along with links to Lara's website and social media here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/37.   Get your FREE download: Fertility Recovery Guide

In episode 36, we interview naturopathic doctor, researcher, and women's health expert, Dr. Jordan Robertson. She opens up about her personal experience with multiple miscarriages, which ultimately led her to researching and writing her book called Carrying to Term: A Practical Guide to Reducing Your Miscarriage Risk. Throughout the episode we talk about some of the reasons that it's often challenging for women to get the care they deserve when experiencing pregnancy loss or fertility challenges, why it's so important to use an in-depth health history to drive testing and treatment decisions, which tests should be considered when investigating miscarriage, and some simple strategies that you can implement starting today to reduce your risk of pregnancy loss going forward. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Dr. Robertson's website and book here:  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/36. Download our FREE quiz:  Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?

In episode 35, we interview naturopathic doctor, author, and genetics expert, Dr. Ben Lynch. We talk about his book, Dirty Genes, and dive into how we can work with our unique genetic predispositions to create better health and fertility, both for ourselves and our next generation.You'll learn what genes are, what they do, and how they influence health, why methylation is truly the key to preconception preparation and your baby's long-term health, which specific genetic variations impact fertility and pregnancy, and how we can address them with targeted nutrition and lifestyle strategies. You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Dr. Lynch's website and book here: https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/35. Enroll in our FREE online course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements

In episode 34, we interview registered dietitian Lauren Manaker about how to support male fertility with diet and lifestyle. Her brand-new book, Fueling Male Fertility, is a fantastic resource full of simple strategies men can use to start improving both sperm quality and overall health. Throughout the episode, we talk about why a food-first approach is really the way to go, which nutritional protocol has been shown to be most effective for male fertility, and the specific types of nutrients men need to focus on with both diet and supplements. We also go into lifestyle habits that influence male fertility and share why it’s important not to hyper-focus on one area of health at the expense of others. This is definitely a must-listen for women who want to learn more about how to get their partners on board with preconception changes! You can find show notes for the episode, along with links to Lauren’s website and book at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/34.   Download your FREE quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? 

In episode 33, we talk about how food sensitivities can affect your fertility and help you determine whether it's time to start making some adjustments to your diet. We go over the most common culprits for food reactions, why foods like gluten and dairy get such a bad reputation when it comes to fertility, and the two types of elimination diets we most often recommend to our clients. We also discuss testing options and talk about the unique functional approach we use for food sensitivities in our practice. This episode will be especially helpful for you if you're experiencing frequent digestive symptoms, aches and pains, allergies, skin issues, sinus problems, hormone imbalances, or unexplained infertility. You can find show notes for the episode on our website at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/33. Schedule a FREE 20-minute consult with us

In episode 32, we interview reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Lora Shahine, about recurrent pregnancy loss and the reality of conventional fertility treatments. Dr. Shahine is a wealth of knowledge on the subject of miscarriage and has even written a book on the subject, called Not Broken. The book helps couples navigate the often disheartening and frustrating process of trying to investigate the cause of multiple losses and also provides an evidence-based resource on treatment options that can help increase the chances for a successful pregnancy in the future. In the episode, you'll learn about the most common cause of miscarriage, the first steps to evaluating a couple that has experienced multiple losses, and some of the things you can start doing now to reduce your risk. We also talk through some of the myths surrounding fertility and conventional treatment options and give you advice on how to choose the right clinic and care team for you. You can learn more about Dr. Shahine and find links to her book, website, and social media here:  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/32. Download your FREE quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Book a FREE 20 minute consult

In episode 31, we help you understand the basics of conventional fertility testing and treatment options. Although our practice is all about natural and integrative fertility care, we still want you to understand when it might be time to seek out help from a fertility clinic and what to expect when you get there. We go over the 3 types of evaluations you'll typically receive, how the different treatments options works (IUI, IVF, etc.), and the side effects, risks, and costs associated with each one. We also give you a realistic look at success rates for each treatment and discuss some of the things you'll want to consider when choosing a fertility clinic and treatment course. As a side note, we are NOT experts in conventional fertility care and you should definitely discuss specific questions or concerns you have about treatment with your clinic or reproductive endocrinologist. You can find show notes for the episode on our website at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/31. Get your FREE download: Fertility Recovery Guide

In episode 30, we interview functional nutritionist, Krista Barlow, about her journey through infertility and IVF. When Krista started struggling to conceive, she was fully committed to using nutrition and natural medicine to work through it and get pregnant on her own. But after 6 long years, she finally decided to seek help from a reproductive endocrinologist to investigate further. And it turns out that, despite doing everything in her power to overcome infertility naturally, she would ultimately need IVF to start her family. In this episode, Krista shares her entire story and we also talk about when you should consider conventional testing/treatment, how to maintain your health and sanity while going through IVF, and why it's so important to always trust your intuition! You can find show notes for the episode and links to Krista's website and social media on our website at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/30.  Resources we talk about in the episode:  BLOG: Genetic SNP Testing Made Safe, Easy and Affordable With MaxGen Labs Order Your Own Genetic Testing Kit from MaxGen Labs Better Beauty Facebook Group with Krista Barlow

In episode 29, we interview Board Certified Pediatrician and preconception care expert, Dr. David Berger. His practice, Wholistic Pediatrics & Family Care, is focused on holistic medical therapies for chronic disorders in both children and adults, including autism, ADHD, allergies, asthma, and autoimmune disorders. Dr. David also helps couples prepare for pregnancy with preconception counseling, testing, and treatments that are aimed at optimizing the health of the pregnancy and baby. Today, he shares with us how his approach to autism and other chronic conditions is different than conventional medical therapies and how we can actually reduce the risk of our children developing these conditions by intervening BEFORE we try to conceive. Dr. David also dives into some of the specific testing, treatments, and lifestyle modifications he recommends to couples who want to do their best to prepare their bodies for pregnancy. You can find links to Dr. David's website and blog on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/29.

In epsiode 28, we interview Razi Berry about her personal health and fertility journey. After having her debilitating symptoms continually dismissed by conventional doctors and being told in her 20's that she'd never have children, Razi sought help from a naturopathic doctor. Not only was she able to heal from chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, but she was also able to naturally conceive 2 healthy children! Her miraculous health turnaround led her to become an outspoken advocate for naturopathic and mind-body medicine and she's dedicated her career to getting the word out. Tune in to hear Razi's incredible health and fertility story and to learn about what sets naturopathic medicine apart and how it can help you uncover true and lasting health. You can find links to Razi's website, her podcast, and her social media on our website at  https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/28 . Take the FREE quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? 

In episode 27, we interview naturopathic physician and fertility expert, Dr. Jaclyn Chasse. Her practice, Perfect Fertility, is dedicated to fertility, sexual health and family wellness. Today, Dr. Chasse talks to us about egg quality, including how to properly assess for ovarian reserve, the 4 primary factors that negatively impact egg quality, how to test for each of these factors, and specific steps you can take to improve egg quality and boost fertility. You can find links to Dr. Chasse’s website and her upcoming May 11th fertility class for practitioners on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/27. Download your free guide: Fertility Recovery Guide

In episode 26, we interview Fertility Awareness Educator and Holistic Reproductive Health Practitioner, Lisa Hendrickson-Jack. Lisa is the host of the popular Fertility Friday podcast and the author of The Fifth Vital Sign. She helps women understand how to track their menstrual cycles for birth control, conception, and monitoring overall health and we're excited to have her with us to talk about how to identify your fertile signs. You'll learn what the Fertility Awareness Method is and how to use it, why cervical mucus is so amazing and why you can't get pregnant without it, and how tracking your cycle can help you identify when something is going wrong with your health or fertility. You can find links to Lisa's podcast, book, and social media on our website at https://tinyfeet.co/my-podcast/26. Take the free quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? 

In episode 25, we interview infertility warrior, miscarriage survivor, and scientist, Amy Beckley.  Amy is the founder and CEO of Proov, the first at-home rapid response urine progesterone test. Motivated by her personal infertility experience and her desire to empower other women to better understand their fertility, Amy used her PhD in Pharmacology to create Proov. Tune in to hear Amy's story and to learn all about progesterone, including why it's so important to fertility and pregnancy, why it's not always easy to identify when progesterone is too low, some of the causes of progesterone imbalances, and how Proov can help you determine if progesterone levels are an issue for you. You can view show notes for the episode and find links to Proov here. Take the free quiz:  Are You Healthy Enough To Get Pregnant?

In episode 24, we interview naturopathic doctor, women's health expert, and author of Period Repair Manual, Dr. Lara Briden. We discuss polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is a highly misunderstood condition affecting about 10% of women and contributing to 20-30% of infertility cases. Dr. Briden covers why PCOS is so frequently misdiagnosed, how it SHOULD be diagnosed, and the 4 different sub-types of the condition (all of which require different healing approaches). We also talk about why conventional treatments for PCOS are so often ineffective and dive into the specific naturopathic and nutritional therapies that can help women restore their health and fertility. Whether you've been diagnosed with PCOS, you suspect you may have it, or you're questioning the diagnosis you've received, this episode is for you! You can view the show notes for the episode and find links to Dr. Briden's website and book here. Take the FREE quiz: What's Your PCOS Subtype?

In episode 23, we interview naturopathic doctor, women's health expert, and bestselling author of Beyond the Pill, Dr. Jolene Brighten. She talks about the many side effects that hormonal birth control can cause in a woman's body, how this can impact long-term health and fertility, and what women can do to balance their hormones, recover their health, and conceive successfully after birth control. Dr. Brighten unpacks a lot of the myths surrounding hormonal contraception and validates the experiences of women everywhere who have had their symptoms and concerns dismissed by their healthcare professionals. Combining the latest scientific research with her vast clinical experience helping women heal from post birth control syndrome, Dr. Brighten shares invaluable information to empower you on your health and fertility journey. You can find links to Dr. Brighten's website, book, and free Post Birth Control Detox Diet Guide here. Take the FREE quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Beyond the Pill book and bonuses: www.beyondthepillbook.com Website: https://drbrighten.com/

In episode 22, we interview Dr. Carrie Jones about how to receive a comprehensive functional assessment of your hormones beyond what you get from blood tests at your doctor's office. She gives an overview of the DUTCH (dried urine test for comprehensive hormones) test and explains how it's different from conventional hormone testing and why you should consider it when you're trying to conceive or struggling with infertility. We go over all the markers on the DUTCH and share how each of them can be used to uncover the root cause of hormone imbalance symptoms or trouble conceiving. We also discuss specific things women can do to address hormone imbalances and improve their fertility. View the episode show notes here. Take our FREE quiz: Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant? Order your DUTCH test now: Work With Us

In episode 21, we interview mind-body wellness and high-risk pregnancy expert Parijat Deshpande.  She talks about her book, Pregnancy Brain, and gives us some insight on why we need to be mindful of our stress and stay connected with our bodies - especially during fertility challenges and pregnancy complications. Parijat also shares some inspirational advice on how to process negative emotions like grief, anger, shame, and resentment in a healthier way. You can find links to Parijat's work, including her website, podcast, and book here. FREE Fertility Recovery Guide

In episode 20, the husbands tell all! We interviewed our own partners about their experiences with preconception care and fertility optimization. Dan and Matt each have unique perspectives when it comes to their health and their role in the pregnancy preparation process and we wanted to capture a little bit of the male point of view. If you're having trouble getting your man on board with diet or lifestyle changes to support their health and fertility, this is the episode to share with them.  We’re excited to let you behind the scenes and introduce you to the men that keep our worlds turning! Free Quiz: "Are You Healthy Enough to Get Pregnant?"  Show notes and links to book references

In episode 19, we talk in-depth about male fertility. We discuss the different lab tests that can evaluate sperm quality and hormone balance, the specific medical conditions and lifestyle habits that can contribute to reduced fertility, and actionable recommendations to help men improve their sperm quality, fertility potential, and overall health. 

In episode 18, we interview registered dietitian and women's health expert, Ayla Barmmer MS, RD, LDN about the important role of detoxification in health and fertility. There are A LOT of misconceptions about detoxification and Ayla's going to help clear those up for you today! You'll learn what detoxification, why it's so important for overall health and the ability to conceive, and what circumstances may increase your need for detoxification support. Ayla also shares actionable recommendations for SAFELY and EFFECTIVELY supporting your detox pathways and, ultimately, improving your fertility. You can learn more about Ayla on her website at https://bostonfunctionalnutrition.com/ and be sure to follow along with her on Instagram @aylabarmmer!

Are you currently eating a vegan diet while trying to conceive or while pregnant? Are you considering a vegan diet due to ethical, environmental, or health/fertility concerns? Then tune in! In this episode, we discuss what you absolutely MUST know if you plan to start or stay on a vegan diet during preconception and pregnancy, including the NINE essential nutrients that you may be missing out on from food and what you can do to try to close these gaps. We also talk about some of the major reasons people choose veganism and why the ethical and environmental concerns are not as black and white as you might think. We do talk a lot about KEY supplements in the episode and you can access our entire FREE course on How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements here! Other resources we recommend: Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols RDN, CDE The China Study: A Formal Analysis and Response by Denise Minger The Vegetarian Myth by Lierre Keith A Vegan Dietitian Reviews “What the Health” by Virginia Messina MPH, RD

In this episode, we talk about common health symptoms that can have a major impact on fertility and your future baby's health and what you can do to investigate and address them. We also go into why we don't always recognize when something is going wrong with our health and help you understand the specific symptoms you need to be watching for if you're wanting to get pregnant in the next year. We have a FREE quiz that goes along with this episode to help you identify which symptoms apply to you. Access the quiz here! Other resources we discuss: FREE course: How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements Work with us: Functional Lab Testing & Review Consults

In this episode, we interview real food dietitian and bestselling author, Lily Nichols RDN, CDE. She talks about her incredible book, Real Food for Pregnancy, and goes into which foods we should be eating during preconception and pregnancy, why conventional nutrition advice is often terribly outdated, and how we can start making simple changes to support our fertility and the long-term health of our babies. We also dive into evidence-based reasons that a vegan diet should be seriously reconsidered when trying to conceive and while pregnant. We cover some of the specific essential nutrients that are missing from this type of diet and why supplementing may not be enough to close these nutrient gaps. We're so excited to have Lily with us today and to share her work with all of you! Links to Lily's Work Books: Real Food for Gestational Diabetes and Real Food for Pregnancy Website: https://lilynicholsrdn.com/ Instagram: @lilynicholsrdn Facebook: Lily Nichols RDN Other Resources FREE Fertility Recovery Guide

In this episode, we interview Kristy Dishmon, an NTP colleague of Kristin's who spent more than a decade in debilitating pain before finally being diagnosed with endometriosis. Since discovering nutrition 3 years ago, Kristy has been on an incredible journey to heal her body and reclaim her life from chronic illness. She is now living almost completely pain-free by supporting her body with nourishing foods, a healthy lifestyle, and other natural therapies. Listen in to hear her entire story, all the way from the onset of her symptoms to the specific protocol she's using today to get and stay healthy. Kristy's miraculous health turn-around sparked a passion in her to help other women get to the root cause of their symptoms and heal from chronic illness. She received her Nutritional Therapy Practitioner certification in 2018 and started a nutrition practice called The Rooted Life.  If you're inspired by Kristy's story and want to learn more about how she can help you, you can find her on her website at https://www.therooted.life/ or on Instagram @endo.foodie! Other resources we discussed: FREE Checklist: 7 Ways to Reduce Pain & Boost Fertility with Endometriosis Functional Lab Testing and Review Consults

In this episode, we dive into the complex topic of endometriosis and infertility. If you have endometriosis, you probably already know that there's no cure and that the conventional treatment options are limited. But you might not have heard about the MANY natural therapies available that can help you recover your health, reduce your pain, and increase your fertility! Dr. Haylee and Kristin share the most up-to-date research on what contributes to the development and spread of endometriosis, how the condition is diagnosed, how it can lead to infertility, and what you can do to start getting your life back and increasing your chances of a successful pregnancy. We also have a special FREE download that provides you with a quick-reference guide for the interventions we discuss in the episode. Download your checklist for 7 Ways to Reduce Pain & Increase Fertility with Endometriosis now!

In this episode, Dr. Haylee and Kristin discuss risk factors for miscarriage and how couples can increase their chances of a healthy, full-term pregnancy. You'll learn which health conditions, nutrient deficiencies, and environmental exposures can contribute to pregnancy loss, what you can do to address these risk factors, and which tests are most important to consider if you have a history of miscarriage.  We also have a special guest interview with one of Dr. Haylee's patients. She's going to share her personal experience with loss and talk about some of the things she's done to work toward having a healthy pregnancy in the future.  Other resources we discuss in the episode: Dr. Isabella Wentz (thyroid healing): https://thyroidpharmacist.com/ Genetics Blog Post: Oh SNP! Three Genetic Variations That May Affect Your Fertility EWG Produce Guides: 2018 Shoppers Guide to Pesticides in Produce FREE Prenatal Supplements Course FREE Fertility Recovery Guide

Dr. Haylee and Kristin continue the discussion about gut issues and fertility.  While the last two episodes focused on Dr. Haylee’s and Kristin’s personal gut experiences, this episode takes a deeper dive into gut function. In this episode we cover how digestion shouldwork, the most common problems with digestion, what causes them, and how these issues ultimately impact fertility.  We also discuss adjustments you can make to your diet and lifestyle to improve digestion, in addition to how to find a qualified practitioner to help you investigate your gut function further.   This episode is brought to you by our FREE online course on "How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements." 

Kristin shares her experience with complicated gut issues and the long, winding path she's taken to find relief from her symptoms and restore her fertility. She discusses the FIVE treatments she's been through for SIBO, her eventual discovery of multiple parasite infections, her recent diagnosis with an autoimmune condition, and the current dietary protocol she's following to keep her health on track. We also do a deep dive into how gut dysfunction affects fertility, the specific functional tests we recommend to investigate digestive issues, the necessary components of a gut healing protocol, and why personalization is the key to success when treating the gut. This episode is brought to you by our FREE online course on "How to Choose the Best Prenatal Supplements".

Dr. Haylee share's her personal journey with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and her recent experience with using the elemental diet to heal her gut. In this episode, you’ll learn what IBS and SIBO actually are, how they’re diagnosed, the symptoms they typically cause, and the possible treatment options to address them. Dr. Haylee also talks about the multiple treatments she’s been through for IBS/SIBO and some of the missteps she’s had along the way. If you’re having problems with your digestion, you’ll definitely want to tune in! Gut health is a critically important part of optimizing both overall health and fertility, but it’s almost completely ignored in conventional fertility medicine. We’re going to help shed some light on why you should spend time investigating your gut during preconception and how you can get started. This episode is brought to you by our free course on "How To Choose The  Best Prenatal Supplements" 

With Dr. Liz, we explore the 3 P's: Paragons, Phthalates & Perfumes - ingredients in personal care products that can negatively affect your fertility.  We give you great resources on how to find out if what you are using in your bathroom is actually harming you and how to find clean alternatives. Dr. Elizabeth Cherevaty ND, RAc is a Naturopathic Doctor & Registered Acupuncturist with nearly a decade of clinical experience. She founded Two Rivers Health in Ontario, Canada and focuses her practice on preconception, pregnancy, postpartum & pediatric care.  She has a background in toxicology and passion for understanding how personal care products can affect one's fertility and the health of baby.  You can find her at https://www.tworivershealth.ca or https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.cherevaty This episode is brought to you by our free online course on "How To Choose The Best Prenatal Vitamins"

Are you wondering exactly what nutrients are the most important to take when preparing for pregnancy? You will be surprised, it's not what you think! Dr. Haylee and Kristin break down the 6 essential supplements that research shows will improve your chance of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy! We give you exactly why you need these nutrients, the form and amount you need to look for when choosing a supplement, and what you absolutely need to avoid. This episode is sponsored by our FREE course "How To Choose The Best Prenatal Supplements" 

In this episode we teach you why sleep is so important to your health and how it can help you enhance your fertility through things like balancing your hormones, boosting your metabolism, and taming inflammation in your body. If you're interested in learning more how you can quickly boost your fertility with 5 simple steps, download our FREE Fertility Recovery Guide

Learn blood sugar works in the body, influences hormone balance, egg quality, and your baby's health, and how to find your individual "sweet spot" for carbohydrates.

Dr. Haylee and Kristin discuss how certain single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in our DNA can affect how well we can utilize specific nutrients, such as choline, folate and vitamin D, in our body. The top three SNPs discussed are MTHFR, PEMT, and VDR due to their significant impact on fertility and long term health of baby.

Dr. Haylee she tells us about her background, her health obstacles including her scare with losing her ability to conceive at a young age, and her journey to finding naturopathic medicine. During medical school, she found a passion for preconception care and fertility. 

In today's episode, Kristin introduces herself and tells her story of how she struggled with her health and found healing with nutrition. From financial analyst to a certified nutritionist, Kristin now helps other couples find their best health to realize their dream of having a healthy baby.

In this inaugural episode, Dr. Haylee & Kristin explain what preconception care is, why it's important, and how it can affect the long-term health your future baby.