Can food really boost your fertility?

In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Helen sits down with Dr. Angela Thyer and dietitian Judy Simon, co-authors of Getting to Baby, a fertility and lifestyle guide born from years of clinical experience—and personal journeys through infertility. They dive into how plant-forward diets, whole grains, legumes, fish, and even soy (yes, soy!) can support hormone balance, regulate cycles, improve egg quality, and in many cases, help women conceive without needing IVF.

From managing PCOS with fiber-rich foods and better blood sugar control, to the power of breakfast and the underestimated role of male nutrition (hello, walnuts and fish!), this episode challenges the “just lose weight” or “just do IVF” narratives so many women hear. Whether you're actively trying to conceive or just want to understand your body better, this is a conversation full of real patient stories, practical food tips, and long-overdue encouragement. Resources: Read Dr. Thyer and Judy Simon's book Get in touch with Judy Get in touch with Dr. Thyer

Disclaimer: 3W Medical for Women is a program of Women's Accessible Medical Services, PS (WAMS). The information shared in this podcast is the opinion of the speaker, or speakers. Medical information is not intended as individual medical consultation, but for general education only. Always consult your own health professional for personalized advice regarding medical decisions.

Episode Description:

In this deeply moving episode of Wellness Wednesday, host Helen sits down with Laura Belk — founder of Nurturing Nations and mother of nine — to discuss the beauty, heartbreak, and transformative power of adoption. From adopting children with special needs across continents to building a nonprofit that rescues and educates abandoned children in Ghana, Laura shares her remarkable journey of love, sacrifice, and relentless advocacy.

This episode covers:

• The shocking reality of how children with disabilities are treated in parts of the world — and what Nurturing Nations is doing to protect them

• What it takes to adopt internationally, especially children with special needs

• Honest conversations about the trauma, healing, and joy in adoptive families

• Why every child is worth the risk — and how saying "yes" can change everything

• Practical ways you can help — from sponsorship to life-saving trips abroad

Whether you're an adoptive parent, considering adoption, or simply want to hear a story of radical love in action, this episode will move you and challenge you.

👉 Learn more or support at nurturingnations.org 👉 Contact Laura Belk at laura@nurturingnations.org

👉 Follow Nurturing Nations on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nurturingnations/?hl=en

Disclaimer: 3W Medical for Women is a program of Women's Accessible Medical Services, PS (WAMS). The information shared in this podcast is the opinion of the speaker, or speakers. Medical information is not intended as individual medical consultation, but for general education only. Always consult your own health professional for personalized advice regarding medical decisions.

In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Helen is joined by Dr. Jim Heid, a seasoned family physician with decades of experience in women’s health, including over 1,000 births. Together, they take a deep dive into the biology of the menstrual cycle and the importance of cycle awareness for both women and their partners.

Key topics include:

• A breakdown of the follicular and luteal phases, and what’s happening hormonally and physiologically during each stage

• The role of cervical mucus in fertility, and how different types of mucus signal different phases of the cycle

• The use of cycle tracking apps and devices, including options for postpartum and lactating women

• An overview of PMS and PMDD, including symptoms, treatment options, and how stress impacts the cycle

• Why cycle health is being called the “fifth vital sign” — and why this matters for women’s overall well-being

Dr. Jim also shares his experience tracking cycles in his own family and offers insights into how men can support women more effectively by understanding these natural rhythms.

Whether you’re seeking to improve your reproductive health, explore fertility awareness, or simply want to better understand your body, this episode is for you! Disclaimer: 3W Medical for Women is a program of Women's Accessible Medical Services, PS (WAMS). The information shared in this podcast is the opinion of the speaker, or speakers. Medical information is not intended as individual medical consultation, but for general education only. Always consult your own health professional for personalized advice regarding medical decisions.