In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt delves into the evolving nutritional needs of women across different life stages with expert guest, Rebecca Blake, RD. Dr. Amy and Rebecca discuss the rapid growth of the wellness and supplement industry, which saw the US dietary supplement market valued at $53.58 billion in 2023, and question the efficacy of many popular supplements. Together, they ponder whether these products fill crucial nutritional gaps or simply capitalize on brilliant marketing strategies. Rebecca Blake, a clinical nutrition subject matter expert with extensive experience in the field, shares her nuanced perspective on gender-specific nutritional advice. She argues that while some supplements may be beneficial during times of physiological stress or hormonal changes, the key lies in understanding individual nutritional needs rather than succumbing to one-size-fits-all solutions. Amy and Rebecca critically assess popular trends like cycle syncing and adaptogen use, often finding them unsupported by robust science, yet acknowledge the psychological comfort they may offer individuals. The episode also touches on Rebecca's personal and professional experiences with nutrition and fertility. They discuss the impact of specific supplements and diet modifications on conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and unexplained infertility. While emphasizing the importance of a whole foods-based diet and the limitations of the supplement industry, Rebecca and Amy encourage listeners to be inquisitive and critical about their supplement choices. The episode concludes with practical advice on evaluating and integrating supplements into one’s life, urging listeners to consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff