Episode Summary

In this episode of the Empowered Nutrition Podcast, we are joined by Lily Nichols, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator, and researcher known for her evidence-based approach to prenatal nutrition. Lily is the founder of the Institute for Prenatal NutritionⓇ and co-founder of the Women’s Health Nutrition Academy. She has authored several bestselling books on real food nutrition that have influenced prenatal health worldwide.

In this discussion, Lily shares insights into the relationship between insulin resistance and gestational diabetes, emphasizing the importance of managing blood sugar before, during, and after pregnancy. She also provides empowering strategies to reduce long-term health risks and ensure optimal outcomes for both mothers and their babies.

Episode Highlights

• Insulin Resistance Preconception: Lily explains that insulin resistance may already exist before pregnancy, contributing to the development of gestational diabetes.
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring Study: A study discussed by Lily reveals that women who developed gestational diabetes showed higher blood sugar levels from the beginning of pregnancy, even before typical testing at 24–28 weeks.
• The Importance of Preconception Blood Sugar Management: Lily emphasizes that managing blood sugar before pregnancy, through proper diet, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments, can significantly reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.
• Gestational Diabetes and Long-Term Health: Women who develop GD are at a higher risk of type 2 diabetes later in life. Lily describes GD as a "warning light" and stresses the importance of lifestyle changes post-pregnancy to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• The Role of Key Nutrients: Lily mentions the importance of nutrients like magnesium, vitamin D, and inositol in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
• Empowering Women: Rather than stigmatizing gestational diabetes, Lily highlights how knowledge of one's blood sugar control can be empowering, leading to proactive health decisions and better long-term outcomes.
• Gestational Diabetes Resources: Lily shares information about her professional training programs and the network she has built to ensure women have access to high-quality clinical care.

Resources Mentioned

• Lily Nichols’ Website: LilyNicholsRDN.com – A hub for free articles, blog posts, and educational content on prenatal and gestational diabetes nutrition.
• Books by Lily Nichols:
  • Real Food for Gestational Diabetes
  • Real Food for Pregnancy
  • Real Food for Fertility
• Free Video Series on Gestational Diabetes: Available on Lily's website under the "Freebies" tab.
• Women’s Health Nutrition Academy: Professional webinars on prenatal nutrition.
• Institute for Prenatal Nutrition: A clinical mentorship program for health professionals. Apply to be in the October cohort!
• Instagram: Follow Lily Nichols (@lilynicholsrdn) on Instagram for research briefs, food inspiration, and practical tips.

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