Born Free Method: The Podcast Hope for Hyperemesis: Jes Reynolds’ Journey from Suffering to Supporting Mothers
Jes Reynolds is a registered physiotherapist and holistic health practitioner, and the driving force behind The Wellness Element. Drawing on her personal experience with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), she now empowers pregnant women to prevent and reverse severe morning sickness through natural, root‑cause solutions—no medications required—and helps them feel strong, nourished, and energized throughout their pregnancy.
00:03:28 - Holistic Pregnancy Health Management
Jes shared her personal experience with pregnancy-related health issues, including preeclampsia, cholestasis, and hyperemesis, and how she used a low histamine diet and other interventions to manage her symptoms. She explained that her approach was not arbitrary but based on her clinical experience and research, including insights from Dr. Ben Lynch. Jes emphasized the importance of a personalized and holistic assessment when working with clients, considering factors such as liver function, gut health, nervous system, and kidney function. She also discussed the potential for clients to reintroduce restricted foods after pregnancy, depending on their individual needs and responses.
00:12:20 - Liver-Kidney Detoxification Pathways
Nathan and Jes discussed the complex relationship between the liver and kidneys, highlighting how the kidneys serve as a backup detoxification pathway when the liver is not functioning optimally. They explored the benefits of glandular support, particularly organ meats, and the importance of addressing nutrient deficiencies to optimize liver detoxification processes. Jes shared her experience with raw liver consumption postpartum to address hair loss and explained the timeline of histamine-related symptoms during pregnancy. They also discussed the role of vitamins and nutrients as cofactors in detoxification pathways, emphasizing the body's complex processes for protecting and eliminating toxins.
00:34:00 - Preconception Health: Emotional and Energetic Factors
Jes and Nathan discussed holistic approaches to pregnancy and preconception health, focusing on emotional and energetic factors that may influence health outcomes. Jes emphasized the importance of addressing emotional resistance to pregnancy, particularly in type-A accomplished women, and highlighted the role of somatic practices and emotional release in supporting liver function and overall health. They explored the concept of epigenetics and the potential to influence future generations through preconception health practices. Nathan and Jes agreed that allowing oneself to feel and process emotions, rather than suppressing them, is crucial for both individual well-being and the health of children.
00:45:25 - Pregnancy Detox and Nutrition Program
Jes discussed her approach to detoxification and cleansing, emphasizing the importance of addressing the body's terrain and supporting natural detoxification processes. She shared her experience with star anise as a safe herb for pregnant women and explained her upcoming program, "The Human Blueprint," designed for women planning future pregnancies. Jes also highlighted the significance of digestive strength in nutrient absorption and addressed common pregnancy issues like food aversions, suggesting that they are often linked to the body's need to conserve energy. Nathan encouraged Jes to share her expertise with others and mentioned plans to refer clients to her. They also touch on MTFHR gene mutations and their implication in HG.
00:51:35 - Collaborative Approach to HG Treatment
Jes discussed her holistic approach to treating hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) by connecting different medical silos and emphasized the importance of collaboration in healthcare, sharing an example from her work in the UK where daily team meetings improved patient outcomes. She explained her journey from physiotherapy to a broader health practice focused on pregnancy and postpartum care, and shared her rebranding efforts to better reflect this focus. Nathan expressed support for her work and discussed the need for more curiosity and openness in the medical field, suggesting a future where practitioners like Jes could be easily accessed for various health needs.Connect with Jes on Instagram. Listen to her podcast. And check out her practice.
References from the show:
* Dirty Genes: A Revolutionary Approach to Health and Wellness Through Nutritional Genetics and Personalized Plans for a Happier, Healthier, by Ben Lynch, ND
This episode was sponsored by Born Free Method.
The Born Free Method digital playground includes over 60 hrs of pre-recorded lessons (w/ slides) spread out over 180+ lessons when you enroll. You will also be invited to a Zoom call (recorded) every other week hosted by me, Sara, and both. We also often have guest speakers, and you will have access to recordings for all 100+ of our past calls/interviews.
* 12-month access is $750
* Lifetime access is $3997 (This option comes with some other perks as well, including direct support from me and Sara for life by phone/text/email)
* Fertility Deep Dive ($499) if you just want to focus on pre-conception planning and fertility, but this content is included in both of our other offerings above.
We have payment plans available for the lifetime package, and we have discounts available for any of our programs for students and birthworkers. Just shoot Nathan and Sara an email: support@bornfreemethod.com .
Notes for this episode are found on Substack
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