EP. 183: I sit down with Lily Nichols, acclaimed registered dietitian and author, about the importance of nutrition at every stage of motherhood. We delve into the key nutrients for fertility, pregnancy, and post-delivery recovery, drawing insights from Lily's work in "Real Food for Pregnancy" and "Real Food for Gestational Diabetes." This episode challenges common myths about pregnancy nutrition. Learn about prenatal and postnatal nutrition's impact on health and future generations, including the significance of organ meats and essential vitamins for developing embryos. We also discuss the high nutritional needs during the postpartum phase, comparing it to the demands on elite athletes, and share stories of dietary transformation and global postpartum care wisdom. This conversation offers an evidence-based guide for expectant and aspiring parents, highlighting nutrition's role in supporting life's early stages.

Topics Discussed:

09:17 - Lily Nichols and her history in childhood nutrition, pregnancy and postpartum nutrition, and gestational diabetes

11:13 - Impact of Blood Sugar Level on Baby’s Development

13:16 - Testing for Gestational Diabetes

19:25 - The Importance of Nutrition Before Pregnancy

29:52 - Animal Sourced Proteins and Challenges of a Vegetarian Diet

40:07 - Foods to Avoid While Pregnant

44:20 - Where Your Food Comes From Matters

48:20 - The Science Behind Cravings

50:44 - Essential Nutrients During Pregnancy

55:13 - Postpartum Nutrition

01:02:58 - Eat Plenty of Protein