#61 - Lily Nichols, RDN: On the Science of Ancient Nutrition in Pregnancy

Lily is an expert in perinatal nutrition, specializing in prevention and reversal of gestational diabetes. She was engaged in perinatal health and nutrition research for years prior to embarking on her own as an author of two of the best books on the related to lifestyle and nutrition for optimal pregnancy outcomes. It's important to keep in mind that optimizing your health before pregnancy and thoughtfully nourishing your body (and mind) during pregnancy leads to shorter labor, faster recovery, and a lesser likelihood of developing pathologies like fetal growth restriction, placental issues, hypertensive disorders, and diabetes if you prioritize your health as a pregnant woman. While there is a lot of noise out there regarding "right and wrong" to nourish your body and baby during and after pregnancy, Lily provides the clearest, most digestible "signal" to guide you through this noise. You're going to LOVE this interview!

[12:30] - Diabetes in pregnancy has long-term impacts on your child's health (epigenetics, etc.)

[18:00] - Most pregnancy complications - hypertension, diabetes, postpartum recovery, perineal lacerations, fetal growth, placental health, etc. - can be mitigated by inexpensive adjustments to lifestyle

[26:30] - The #1 dietary change you should consider in pregnancy: eat more protein (from animals)

[32:00] - The ridiculous demonization of saturated fat

[50:10] - We will never outsmart nature



References from the Show:



Lily's website, books, and Instagram

Weston A. Price Foundation

The Big Fat Surprise, by Nina Teicholz

Lily's blog post on organ meats (and on shellfish)

More on Ancel Keys: the guy who kicked off the demonization of saturated fats



My online store (discounts on many products mentioned in the show)



Find me on Instagram @nathanrileyobgyn and my practice at: www.BelovedHolistics.com



Sponsored by:

FullWell Fertility - Use code BELOVED10 for 10% off the best prenatal vitamin on the market (and check out their vitality and nerve support tonic!)

Fit for Birth - With this link, you'll save 20% on personal prenatal exercise coaching (for individuals) or courses to improve your coaching practice (for coaches)!



Music by: Labrinth and Joaquín Cornejo

---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theholisticobgyn/message

Get full access to Born Free Method: The Podcast at nathanrileyobgyn.substack.com/subscribe