Ep 361 The Only Fasting Protocol I Trust for People Trying to Conceive

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle Oravitz,  shares the only fasting approach she recommends for those trying to conceive, and why most intermittent fasting methods can actually harm fertility. Drawing from both modern research and Ayurvedic principles, Michelle explains how to sync your eating habits with your body's natural circadian rhythm to support balanced hormones, stable blood sugar, and optimal digestion. She breaks down how to determine if fasting is right for you (hint: it depends on insulin resistance and PCOS type), the best time of day to eat your biggest meal, and how the ProLon fasting-mimicking diet can help restore metabolic balance without depleting your energy or fertility. If you've ever wondered whether fasting could fit into your fertility journey, this episode offers a grounded, fertility-safe way to approach it. Key Takeaways: Not all fasting methods are fertility-friendly, skipping breakfast can increase stress hormones and harm reproductive balance. Those with insulin resistance or insulin-resistant PCOS may benefit from specific, gentle fasting approaches. Your largest meal should align with your body's strongest digestion period (midday, when the sun is highest). Finishing dinner 2–4 hours before bed supports better sleep, hormone repair, and digestive rest. ProLon's fasting-mimicking protocol can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce stubborn weight safely. Always test, not guess, consult your healthcare provider before starting any fasting or supplement plan. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Use this code and get a discount on PROLON: https://prolonlife.com/thewholesomelotus Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Rose McKenzie, fertility awareness educator and clinician trainer at Mira, to explore a simpler, smarter way to track your cycle, without the stress of daily temperature checks. We dive into how continuous hormone monitoring can reveal what's really happening in your body each month, why a single lab test can miss crucial shifts in your hormones, and how lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, and nutrition affect ovulation. Rose breaks down the science behind Mira's lab-grade hormone tracking technology and shares how it's helping women and practitioners move beyond guesswork to truly understand their cycles. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by charting, or you're ready to move past "BBT burnout," this conversation will help you see your hormones in a whole new way. Key Takeaways:  Tired of charting every morning? Discover a stress-free way to confirm ovulation. Learn why LH strips only tell part of the story, and what you're really missing. See how Mira's lab-grade tech brings clarity to hormone tracking from home. Find out how stress, sleep, and nutrition can delay or disrupt ovulation. Learn why continuous data gives a clearer picture than one-time lab tests. Understand how your insulin sensitivity shifts across your cycle (and how that affects cravings). Get empowered to interpret your hormone data and take control of your fertility journey. Sponsored by MIRA; opinions are our own. Guest Bio:  As the Clinical Manager at Mira, Rose assists healthcare professionals and providers to successfully use Mira with their patients. Through webinars, case reports, and one-on-one assistance she educates providers to effectively and confidently implement hormone monitoring in their practices. With over 10 years of experience as a natural family planning instructor trained in the Marquette Method and Sympto-Thermal Method, Rose has extensive experience assisting women using the Mira monitor for hormone monitoring and health promotion including women tracking their hormones in regular cycles, irregular cycles, postpartum amenorrhea, chemo-induced menopause, and perimenopause. Learn more about Mira and follow their socials: https://www.miracare.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mirafertility/ https://www.facebook.com/mirafertility/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS5Z-P55EpyB-eAnwZsvOdg https://www.tiktok.com/@mirafertility  Study link that we spoke about:  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10421863/ Get 20% off of any MIRA products by using this link: https://shop.miracare.com/discount/WHOLESOMEFERTILITY20?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fhealthcare-experts-choice Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join me inside The Wholesome Fertility Collective: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitycollective   Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, host Michelle Oravitz breaks down one of the most common fertility myths, the belief that pregnancy can only occur on the exact day of ovulation. Popular culture and even many fertility apps often portray conception as a single-day event, but science tells a different story. The truth is, sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days, creating a much wider fertile window than most people realize. Michelle explains what the 5-day fertile window really means, why the "Day 14 ovulation" rule is misleading, and how women can better understand their unique cycles. She also shares practical guidance on tracking ovulation accurately using basal body temperature (BBT) charting, cervical mucus observation, LH strips, and hormone-monitoring devices. Key Takeaways:  How cervical mucus supports sperm survival and why hydration is essential. The impact of irregular cycles caused by thyroid health, PCOS, stress, or travel. Why fertility apps often fail to predict ovulation accurately. The best timing and frequency of intercourse to increase the chances of conception How intercourse during the luteal phase may help prime the immune system to receive an em Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. MIRA at home hormone testing: https://mira-fertility.pxf.io/Gm4AXV Use coupon code: WHOLESOMEFERTILITY FOR 15% OFF! Tempdrop Fertility Monitor – discounted link: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/AFWHOLESOMELOTUS Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

Should you really stay in bed after an embryo transfer? For years, many fertility clinics recommended 24–48 hours of strict bed rest, but research now reveals surprising insights: movement may actually support better outcomes. In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I explore what the latest studies say about bed rest versus gentle movement after transfer. I also share holistic, evidence-based practices from both Western research and Traditional Chinese Medicine that can help create the most supportive environment for implantation. You'll learn about the role of acupuncture before and after transfer, nourishing foods and supplements that enhance blood flow and uterine receptivity, and mind-body practices, from meditation to laughter therapy, that ease stress and boost outcomes. Whether you're preparing for an IVF cycle or supporting someone on this journey, this episode is packed with practical, compassionate guidance to empower you with knowledge and ease during this important stage. Key Takeaways: Extended bed rest after embryo transfer may not improve success rates and could reduce them. Gentle movement supports circulation and aligns with TCM principles for reducing stagnation. Acupuncture before and after transfer can significantly enhance implantation success. Warm, nourishing foods like bone broth and circulation-supporting foods like beets are beneficial. Supplements such as CoQ10, vitamin E, omega-3s, and L-arginine may support uterine health (always consult your clinic). Stress management, meditation, time off work, and even laughter therapy can positively impact outcomes. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join The Wholesome Fertility Collective here -https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitycollective To get 20% off of MIRA products, click here: https://shop.miracare.com/discount/WHOLESOMEFERTILITY20?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fhealthcare-experts-choice  Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

In this solo episode,  I'm sharing five surprising fertility secrets that most people don't know, but should! These insights may completely shift how you view your reproductive health and help you uncover areas that could be holding you back. From the surprising link between gum health and fertility, to the fact that you can bleed monthly without actually ovulating, to how seasons, light exposure, and immune balance all play a powerful role in conception, this episode is packed with practical tools and eye-opening science. Whether you're actively trying to conceive, planning ahead, or simply curious about the deeper connections between your body and fertility, these insights will empower you to take charge of your journey. Key Takeaways: Gum and dental health directly impact sperm quality, egg health, and time to conception. You can have a regular period without actually ovulating, here's how to truly confirm ovulation. Fertility can vary with the seasons, with research showing higher conception rates in autumn and winter. Light exposure and circadian rhythm play a major role in hormone balance and reproductive health. Immune balance is critical for implantation, too much or too little activity can block pregnancy. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Fertilysis Uterine Microbiome Test: https://www.fertilysis.com Use coupon code: WHOLESOMEFERTILITY for a discount.  MIRA at home hormone testing: https://mira-fertility.pxf.io/Gm4AXV Use coupon code: WHOLESOMEFERTILITY FOR 15% OFF! Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus Disclaimer: Some of the links shared are affiliates but this is at no cost to you and can even get you discounted prices!  

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm diving into a topic that often doesn't get enough attention when it comes to fertility, blood flow and microcirculation. From my perspective as a fertility acupuncturist and through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), blood is so much more than oxygen delivery, it's the vital carrier of nutrients, energy, and life force. I'll share why healthy circulation to the uterus and ovaries is essential for egg quality and implantation, and how poor blood flow can affect fertility outcomes. More importantly, I'll give you natural tools you can start using today, like acupuncture, abdominal massage, stress reduction, and foods such as beets and pomegranates, that can help support optimal blood flow. This conversation is all about reconnecting with your body, learning the signals it's giving you, and using holistic, practical ways to create the best possible environment for conception. Key Takeaways: Adequate blood flow to the uterus and ovaries is essential for egg quality and implantation. Stress and "liver qi stagnation" can constrict circulation, but acupuncture helps restore balance. Foods like beets, pomegranate juice, and omega-3s naturally increase nitric oxide and improve blood vessel health. Simple lifestyle shifts like yoga, breathwork, and warm nourishing meals can enhance circulation and fertility. Abdominal massage and castor oil packs are powerful, low-cost tools to support reproductive health. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

In today's episode, I dive into the rising phenomenon of so-called "Ozempic pregnancies" and uncover what's really happening behind the headlines. GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy were originally developed for type 2 diabetes, but are now being used by many women with PCOS, insulin resistance, or weight challenges to support fertility. I'll break down how these medications work, why they may help some women conceive, and the important risks and limitations you need to know. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, we'll explore why simply taking a drug isn't enough to address the root cause, and how digestive health, spleen qi, and lifestyle habits hold the key to lasting fertility and hormone balance. I'll also share practical strategies you can start today, like mindful eating, warming your digestive fire, and syncing with your circadian rhythm, that can naturally support your fertility journey. Key Takeaways:  GLP-1 medications like Ozempic can temporarily improve insulin sensitivity but don't resolve the root causes of infertility. Insulin resistance impacts ovulation, egg quality, and hormone balance, especially in women with PCOS. TCM approaches fertility by strengthening the digestive system and restoring balance, rather than suppressing symptoms. Mindful eating, warm digestion-supporting practices, and aligning meals with the body's circadian rhythm are powerful fertility boosters. Sustainable lifestyle changes are essential for lasting fertility health, beyond short-term medication use. Links mentioned: 📕Fertility Diet eBook—------------------------------------------------ For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle's book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/  

On this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by intimacy expert and author Susan Bratton (@susanbratton)  to explore the powerful connection between passion, pleasure, and fertility. Too often, trying to conceive becomes mechanical and stressful, leaving intimacy feeling like a chore. Susan brings her 20+ years of experience helping couples transform "having sex" into "making love" and shares practical tools to reignite joy and connection on the fertility journey. We dive into her three keys to conception, relaxation, connection, and engorgement, and how practices like yoni massage, oxytocin-boosting foods, and conscious lovemaking can not only increase the chances of conceiving but also create a more vibrant and lasting intimacy. Susan also shares insights on male performance challenges, natural fertility-friendly products, and why cultivating oxytocin can be life-changing for both partners. If you've been feeling like intimacy has become all about the baby-making schedule, this episode will give you a refreshing and empowering perspective on bringing back the romance and planting the seeds for a lifetime of passion. Key Takeaways: Why fertility often makes intimacy feel mechanical and how to shift that. The three keys to conception from a sex expert's perspective: relaxation, connection, and engorgement. How yoni massage and nitric oxide support female arousal and fertility. Oxytocin's overlooked role in conception, joy, and long-term intimacy. Practical tools to reduce stress, reignite pleasure, and support both partners through TTC. Guest Bio: Susan Bratton (@susanbratton), widely known as the "Intimacy Expert to Millions," is a champion for lifelong passion and connection. She is the co-founder of Personal Life Media, creator of the Better Lover brand, and CEO of The20, a company producing organic and botanical supplements to support vitality. A best-selling author of over 40 books and programs, including Relationship Magic and Revive Her Drive, Susan has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, and is one of the most downloaded guests on countless podcasts worldwide. Connect with Susan: Visit her websiteFollow her on FacebookFollow her on InstagramWatch her videos in YoutubeGet your free bottle here! —------------------------------------------------ For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle's book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.  

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm sharing my personal experience attending my fourth week-long Joe Dispenza retreat. From spontaneous moments of connection with the quantum field to powerful coherence healing experiences, I'll walk you through what actually happens at these retreats and how Dr. Joe blends science and spirituality to help people transform and heal. I'll also share the unexpected manifestation that left me speechless… and how I've started writing affirmations into thin air (yes, really!). Whether you're on a healing journey, exploring meditation, or just curious about how your mind shapes your reality, this episode is filled with practical inspiration, quantum insights, and deep personal reflection. Key Takeaways:  What it's really like to attend a Joe Dispenza week-long retreat (and why they sell out so quickly How Dr. Joe bridges quantum physics, neuroscience, and ancient wisdom The science behind the breathwork technique that activates the pineal gland Why becoming "nothing" during meditation is actually the path to transformation A real-life manifestation story involving a wild yellow flower The role of coherence healing and how it's helping people shift physically and emotionally How letting go of control is key—especially on the fertility journey A simple technique to encode intentions using your finger in the air (yes, it works!) Why you don't have to attend a retreat to benefit from the work __________________________________________________________ For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle's book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/  

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Brooke Harmer (@thewellnourishedmama_), the founder of The Well Nourished Mama, a nutritionist and postpartum health expert who supports women through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Brooke's journey began as a food blogger helping college students eat well on a budget, but after becoming a mother herself, she shifted her focus to helping women heal nutritionally after birth and prepare their bodies for future pregnancies. In this conversation, we explore how pregnancy, birth, and postpartum dramatically shift a woman's biochemistry, gut microbiome, and hormonal balance, and why many women facing secondary infertility are actually experiencing a deep nutritional depletion. Brooke shares the foundational habits and healing foods that help rebuild nutrient stores and support fertility, whether it's your first or third time trying to conceive. From bone broth and Brazil nuts to the power of minerals and full-fat dairy, this episode is packed with essential advice for replenishing the body and preparing for a thriving pregnancy. 🎧 Tune in if you're navigating secondary infertility, prepping for conception after baby, or simply want to learn how to nourish your body through all seasons of motherhood. Key Takeaways: - Postpartum depletion can significantly impact future fertility. - The body undergoes major gut, immune, and hormonal shifts during pregnancy and childbirth. - Healing takes time, more than the traditional 6 weeks postpartum. - Eating 3 well-balanced meals a day is foundational for hormone and fertility health. - Minerals and full-fat foods are essential for restoring the body's cellular function and hormonal balance. Guest Bio: Brooke Harmer (@thewellnourishedmama_), is a certified perinatal nutritionist who empowers women to take a proactive, holistic approach to their health during pregnancy and postpartum. Blending evidence-based science with ancient nutritional wisdom, Brooke supports women in nourishing their bodies, working in sync with their medical providers, and thriving through every stage of motherhood. She's the author of two best-selling cookbooks and the host of The Well Nourished Mama Podcast, a top 50 show that has become a go-to resource in the mama community for practical, grounded wellness guidance. Learn more about Brooke: Visit her website here —--------------------------- For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle's book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/