In this episode of the Born Wild Podcast, host Sophia Henderson, LM, CPM, interviews Lily Nichols, a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator, researcher, and author with a passion for evidence-based nutrition. Together, they explore the critical role of nutrition during pregnancy and postpartum, the gaps between current dietary guidelines and modern research, and the importance of combining traditional wisdom with science.

Lily shares insights from her best-selling Real Food series, emphasizing the value of high-quality protein, mindful carbohydrate intake, and nutrient-dense foods for fertility, pregnancy, and recovery. The conversation also covers gestational diabetes testing, caffeine consumption, postpartum nourishment, and the need for better education and support for women throughout their childbearing years.

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What You’ll Learn

• Why evidence-based nutrition is essential during pregnancy and postpartum

• How traditional wisdom aligns with current research on maternal health

• The importance of high-quality protein and micronutrients for fertility and pregnancy

• How to approach gestational diabetes testing and dietary management holistically

• Postpartum recovery foods and the value of meal prepping

• How to discern the quality of food sources for optimal health

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Lily Nichols is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator, researcher, and author known for her evidence-based, sensible approach to maternal nutrition. She is the founder of the Institute for Prenatal Nutrition®, co-founder of the Women’s Health Nutrition Academy, and the author of three influential books: Real Food for Fertility (co-authored with Lisa Hendrickson-Jack), Real Food for Pregnancy, and Real Food for Gestational Diabetes. Her work has influenced prenatal nutrition policy internationally and is used in university-level maternal nutrition and midwifery courses.

When not writing or teaching, Lily enjoys spending time with her husband and two children—most likely outdoors or in the kitchen.

🔗 https://lilynicholsrdn.com

🌿 Real Food Postpartum Recovery Meals

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Links & Resources Mentioned

• Real Food for Pregnancy

• Real Food for Gestational Diabetes

• Real Food for Fertility

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Connect with us:

@sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery

Stay Wild 🌳

147. Real Food for Real Moms with Lily Nichols