Build-A-Bump – Optimizing Prenatal Health

build-a-bumpAs a nutritionist, one of my passions is to celebrate the uniqueness of each of my clients. Over the years, I have been eager to learn about and incorporate genomic testing and functional lab testing into my practice to help further personalize diet, lifestyle and nutrient recommendations. So, when I recently heard about a new lab testing program designed to optimize prenatal health, I was intrigued. Called Build-A-Bump, this prenatal testing panel uncovers important biochemical imbalances and nutrient deficiencies so that a woman knows exactly what key nutrients she needs to take, to best support her and her baby’s health. Continue reading “Build-A-Bump – Optimizing Prenatal Health”

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3 Toxic Substances to Avoid

paint-cansI am very concerned about three chemicals many of us have in our homes that have been proven to be extremely toxic. Since Scott Pruitt and the EPA recently placed a hold on banning these chemicals, we must be cautious and extra vigilant to protect ourselves and our loved ones from these poisons.

A Little Background

The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) was created in 1976 in an attempt to clean up our environment and improve the health of the US population. Continue reading “3 Toxic Substances to Avoid”

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Prenatal Health Series: Nutrition During Pregnancy

prenatal-nutritionCongratulations, you are pregnant! Now what? Over the next few weeks we will look at nutrition, exercise, sleep habits and more regarding women’s health during pregnancy. This week, we’ll look at nutrition.

Nutrition during pregnancy usually requires an increased need for vitamins and minerals. Deficiency or excess of any of a number of nutrients can lead to birth defects and/or complications during pregnancy.

Diet – Eating a diet that is nutritious diet will not only keep you healthy, but it will also help the baby growing in you. Focus on whole fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, quality protein (eggs, nuts, chicken and fish), and keep hydrated. Read food labels carefully and try to avoid foods that contain trans fatty acids and partially hydrogenated oils, including margarine, shortening and most processed foods. Studies have shown that the higher the intake of trans fatty acids, the greater the risk of delivering a premature baby. These fats interfere with fetal development, especially in the brain. Avoid soft, unpasteurized cheeses, raw or smoked fish, and pates and deli meats. These can all contain bacteria that would be harmful for the baby. Continue reading “Prenatal Health Series: Nutrition During Pregnancy”

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Pregnancy and Iodine

pregnancy and iodinePregnancy and iodine have an important connection. A new report by the American Academy of Pediatrics says that pregnant and breastfeeding women should make sure that the mineral iodine is in their prenatal supplements.

Iodine is a trace mineral that is essential in the human body. Many people know iodine is essential to thyroid hormone production, but it is also crucial to healthy brain development in a developing baby.

This is the first time that the American Academy of Pediatrics has made a statement regarding the use of iodine. It is estimated that about one third of pregnant women are deficient in iodine and only about 15% take a supplement that contains it. Severe iodine deficiency is associated with stunted physical and mental growth, and even marginal iodine deficiency can decrease brain functioning.

Pathway Prenatal Plus is a complete multivitamin, formulated to meet a woman’s nutritional needs during pregnancy and lactation. Extra amounts of calcium, folic acid and iron are included to support fetal development and maternal health. Also included in this formula are DHA from trademarked ingredient Neuromins™, iodine and choline, which are important nutrients needed for healthy neurological functioning and brain development of the fetus.

Pathway Prenatal Plus is currently 30% off at our big Summer Sale, through July 15.

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Prenatal Vitamins Linked to Decreased Autism

Thinking of becoming pregnant? Well, don’t wait until the two pink lines show up on your home pregnancy test to start preparing. It’s important for a woman to start taking a good quality prenatal that contains 800 mg of folic acid as well as iron, calcium and vitamin D3, as soon as she starts trying to conceive (and ideally 3 months before conceiving).

Prenatal vitamins are specially formulated vitamins that help support a woman’s body during pregnancy. The most important reason in the past to take a prenatal was for the increased amount of folic acid. Folic acid combined with a B group vitamin, not only before pregnancy, but during, significantly reduces the possibility of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. This condition can develop in an embryo very early in pregnancy, perhaps even before a woman knows she is carrying a fetus.

However, a recent study has given even more importance to prenatal vitamins. Continue reading “Prenatal Vitamins Linked to Decreased Autism”

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Our Bloggers

  • Paula Gallagher
    Paula Gallagher
    Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
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  • Margo Gladding
    Margo Gladding
    Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
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  • Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
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  • Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
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  • Debi Silber
    Debi Silber
    Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
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  • Teri Cochrane
    Teri Cochrane
    Teri is a is a Certified Coach Practitioner with extensive certifications and experience in holistic medicinal practices.
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  • Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker is a holistic family physician, health educator, and best-selling author.
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  • Susan Levin
    Susan Levin
    Susan writes about the connection between plant-based diets and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
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  • Rob Brown
    Dr. Rob Brown
    Dr. Brown's blended perspective of healthcare includes a deeply rooted passion for wellness and spiritual exploration.
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