Silent Anemia and Fertility: How Low Iron Levels Affect Your Chances of Conception

Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast!In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns dives into the timely topic of how viral infections, including flu, COVID-19, and other illnesses, can affect fertility outcomes. Drawing from the latest research and her expertise in holistic fertility, Dr. Burns explores the impact these infections have on egg quality, sperm health, and IVF success rates.  This sessions dives into how Covid may differ form other illnesses in that it has a particular affinity for reproductive tissues, such as in the testes. She provides actionable advice on how to protect and enhance your reproductive health during and after illness, with a focus on natural remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and key supplements to counter oxidative stress and inflammation.In this episode, you’ll learn:The impact of viral infections on fertility, including egg and sperm quality.The role of inflammation and oxidative stress in failed implantation and poor embryo quality.When to delay fertility treatments, such as IVF, after an illness.The most effective natural remedies, supplements, and lifestyle tips to recover quickly and optimize reproductive health.Timestamps:[00:00] Welcome and introduction to the topic of viral infections and fertility[01:20] How flu, COVID-19, and fevers impact sperm and egg health[06:30] Understanding inflammation, oxidative stress, and their effects on fertility outcomes[10:45] To delay or not: Timing fertility treatments after illness[14:20] Top supplements and natural remedies to counter illness and optimize fertility[19:00] Lifestyle adjustments for recovery and creating a fertility-friendly environmentAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by actress and singer-songwriter Lenne Klingaman, who shares her deeply personal and powerful journey through fertility challenges, including pregnancy loss, IVF, and finding hope along the way.Lenne, who recently launched her album Phoenix, tells her story of resilience and healing through music, exploring how creativity and support helped her navigate the emotional complexities of fertility struggles. Her story is both inspiring and comforting for anyone on a similar path.In this episode, you will learn:The importance of finding mental health support during fertility challenges.How personal passions, like music, can offer healing and connection.The emotional impact of pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages.Lenne’s experience with IVF and overcoming an ectopic pregnancy.The powerful role of hope and resilience in her journey to becoming a mother.Timestamps:[00:01] Introduction to Lenne Klingaman and her background in music and acting[01:03] Lenne’s early fertility journey and her first pregnancy loss[06:08] Navigating grief and finding support during the pandemic[09:57] Impact of multiple miscarriages and the toll on mental health[12:20] Lenne’s experiences with IVF and an unexpected ectopic pregnancy[18:40] The creation of Phoenix and using music as a path to healing[21:15] Finding faith, resilience, and a support network during the journey[24:37] How Lenne’s story helps bring light to the emotional aspects of infertility[28:53] Advice and encouragement for others on their fertility pathListen to Lenne Klingaman album and connect with her on social media for more updates on her journey and music. https://lenneklingaman.bandcamp.com/album/phoenixAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Rachele Pojednic, Director of Scientific Research and Education at Restore, who shares her expertise on the therapies offered at Restore and how they can support fertility.Dr. Pojednic dives into the science behind Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), red light therapy, and IV nutrient therapies, explaining how these innovative treatments can improve fertility by enhancing cellular regeneration, improving egg quality, and boosting overall health.In this episode, you’ll learn:The benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for fertility and how it can improve egg quality.How red light therapy enhances mitochondrial function and supports reproductive health.The role of NAD and IV nutrient therapies in optimizing cellular energy and reducing oxidative stress.Dr. Pojednic's insights into the safety and effectiveness of these therapies and when they can be most beneficial for fertility.Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction to Dr. Rachele Pojednic and her work at Restore[01:49] Exploring Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and its impact on fertility[12:06] Red light therapy: Benefits for fertility and overall health[18:40] Understanding NAD therapy and its role in cellular energy production[22:45] IV nutrient therapies: Vitamin C, glutathione, and their role in fertilityAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns! In this episode, Dr. Christina dives into the popular topic of intermittent fasting, exploring the benefits and challenges it presents for those on a fertility journey. Learn about different fasting methods, their impact on reproductive health, and whether intermittent fasting might be a good choice for you as you work toward optimal wellness and fertility.In this episode, you will learn:The different types of intermittent fasting, including whole-day fasting and time-restricted feeding.How intermittent fasting impacts hormone levels and reproductive health in both men and women.The potential benefits of fasting, such as improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation.Concerns about intermittent fasting, including hormone imbalances, muscle loss, and its effects on fertility.Dr. Christina's recommendations for safely incorporating a light version of intermittent fasting to support overall wellness.Timestamps:[00:00:55] Introducing intermittent fasting: Definitions and types[00:02:46] Potential benefits of intermittent fasting: Cognitive, antioxidant, and metabolic effects[00:03:18] Research findings on fasting and hormone levels: Testosterone, estrogen, and androgen markers[00:05:10] The impact of intermittent fasting on PCOS and reproductive health[00:08:48] Effects of intermittent fasting on DHEA levels in women[00:09:58] Concerns about muscle loss, electrolyte imbalance, and thyroid function[00:11:27] Fasting and stress: Impact on cortisol levels, hormone balance, and fertility[00:12:28] Dr. Christina's recommendations: A balanced approach to fastingAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another empowering episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina explores the ancient power of Dang Gui, also known as Angelica root, and how it can support reproductive health, hormonal balance, and overall vitality. Discover the scientific research behind this legendary herb, its role in traditional Chinese medicine, and practical ways to incorporate it into your wellness routine for optimal fertility and well-being.In this episode, you will learn:The rich history and cultural importance of Dang Gui (Angelica Root) in traditional Chinese medicine.How Dang Gui nourishes the blood and supports women’s reproductive health.The role of Dang Gui in regulating the menstrual cycle and alleviating PMS symptoms.How this herb benefits both men and women by improving blood circulation and balancing hormones.The unique anti-aging and skin-enhancing properties of Dang Gui.Practical ways to incorporate Dang Gui into your daily routine for overall wellness and vitality.Timestamps:[00:00:26] Introduction to Dang Gui (Angelica Root) and its role in fertility[00:01:17] Benefits for both men and women: Supporting reproductive and hormonal health[00:02:09] How Chinese medicine combines herbs into powerful formulas[00:03:21] Dang Gui’s effects on menstrual health, digestion, and blood flow[00:05:02] Hormonal balancing: Regulating estrogen and promoting youthfulness[00:07:02] Libido and fertility enhancement for men and women[00:08:00] Anti-aging benefits: Improving circulation, energy, and red blood cell production[00:09:59] Dang Gui’s anti-inflammatory and skin health properties[00:12:00] Conclusion: How Dang Gui can support fertility and overall wellnessAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Burns explores the fascinating relationship between jetlag, sleep disruption, and fertility. She dives deep into how maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is essential for reproductive health and how jetlag can disrupt hormonal balance, impacting fertility outcomes.Recent research has shown that circadian rhythm disruptions, such as jetlag, can interfere with processes like ovulation, implantation, and menstruation, which are crucial for successful conception. Dr. Burns offers practical advice on managing jetlag to protect your fertility, including tips on sleep, supplements, and lifestyle changes.In this episode, you will learn:How circadian rhythms and sleep impact fertility and early pregnancy outcomesThe role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in regulating stress and reproductionHow jetlag and sleep disturbances affect hormonal balance and reproductive healthStrategies to minimize the negative impact of jetlag on fertilityTips for managing jetlag during travel, including supplement recommendations like melatonin and magnesiumHow both men and women are affected by circadian rhythm disruptionsTimestamps:[00:01:00] Introduction: How jetlag impacts fertility[00:25:00] Circadian rhythms, hormonal regulation, and fertility[01:07:00] The effect of jetlag on ovulation, implantation, and menstruation[03:05:00] Jetlag’s impact on PCOS and hormonal regulation[05:53:00] Practical tips for managing jetlag and optimizing fertility[07:32:00] Supplement recommendations for sleep and energy during travel[08:48:00] Conclusion: The importance of maintaining healthy circadian rhythms for fertilityAbout Dr. Christina Burns: Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Tune in for insights on how to manage jetlag and protect your fertility while traveling!Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns, a holistic fertility expert, explores the incredible benefits of acupuncture and moxibustion for fertility. These traditional therapies help improve blood flow, enhance ovarian function, and reduce inflammation, all of which are essential for improving pregnancy rates. Dr. Burns highlights recent studies showing the positive effects of combining acupuncture and moxibustion, including increased endometrial thickness, better ovulation outcomes, and fewer side effects compared to medications like Clomid. She shares compelling clinical cases and research to support the use of these therapies in addressing conditions such as PCOS, thin uterine lining, and unexplained infertility.In this episode, you will learn:What acupuncture and moxibustion are and how they work together to boost fertilityHow moxibustion improves blood flow, ovarian function, and reduces inflammationThe impact of acupuncture and moxibustion on conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and thin uterine liningCase studies on the effectiveness of these therapies for improving pregnancy ratesResearch findings comparing acupuncture and moxibustion to medications like Clomid for ovulation and pregnancy successWhy acupuncture and moxibustion are safer, with fewer side effects than conventional fertility treatmentsTimestamps:[00:05:00] Overview of moxibustion and how it works for fertility[00:12:00] Case study: Acupuncture and moxibustion increase endometrial thickness and pregnancy rates[00:18:00] Study: Acupuncture and moxibustion vs. Clomid for ovulation in PCOS patients[00:25:00] How moxibustion reduces inflammation and improves ovarian function[00:30:00] Clinical success stories and real-life applications[00:40:00] Conclusion and call to action for exploring holistic fertility treatmentsAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns discusses the powerful role of chromium in enhancing fertility. Chromium helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, both crucial for ovulation, implantation, and overall reproductive health. This episode dives into the benefits of chromium for women, particularly those with PCOS, and how it can reduce insulin resistance and inflammation, which are often linked to unexplained infertility. Dr. Burns also covers foods rich in chromium and the best ways to supplement for optimal results.In this episode, you will learn:The importance of chromium in blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivityHow chromium helps reduce inflammation and supports reproductive healthWhy chromium is especially beneficial for women with PCOS and insulin resistanceKey research findings showing improved blood sugar levels in women with PCOS who take chromium picolinate supplementsHow chromium can help reduce appetite, aid in weight loss, and enhance egg qualityFood sources rich in chromium and best practices for supplementationHow lowering inflammation can improve fertility, implantation, and IVF outcomesTimestamps:[00:05:00] How blood sugar, insulin, and fertility are linked[00:10:00] Chromium’s impact on fertility and reducing inflammation in PCOS[00:18:00] Study results: Chromium’s effect on insulin and testosterone in PCOS patients[00:25:00] Food sources of chromium and tips for supplementation[00:30:00] Lifestyle tips for reducing inflammation and optimizing fertilityAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns discusses a commonly overlooked issue in fertility: subclinical or silent anemia. Many women experience low iron levels without realizing it, which can significantly impact fertility. Dr. Burns delves into the importance of iron for reproductive health, how to test for anemia beyond just hemoglobin levels, and the connection between low iron status and unexplained infertility. She also offers practical dietary advice and supplementation tips to help women optimize their iron levels and improve their chances of conception.In this episode, you will learn:What silent anemia is and how it affects fertilityWhy standard tests might not detect low iron levels in timeThe importance of ferritin levels in assessing iron statusResearch findings linking low iron and unexplained infertilityDietary and supplementation strategies for boosting iron levelsThe impact of digestive health on iron absorptionHow to address heavy periods and other causes of low ironTimestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction to Dr. Christina Burns and the topic of the day[00:02:00] Understanding silent anemia and its role in fertility[00:05:00] How to test for anemia beyond hemoglobin levels[00:08:00] Research on ferritin levels and unexplained infertility[00:12:00] The connection between low iron, thyroid issues, and infertility[00:18:00] Dietary recommendations for improving iron status[00:22:00] The role of digestive health in iron absorption[00:25:00] Addressing heavy periods and their impact on iron levels[00:30:00] Conclusion and final thoughtsAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns explores the benefits of strength training for hormonal balance and its positive impact on fertility. She explains why strength training, as opposed to cardio exercises, can help regulate hormones like human growth hormone, testosterone, and estrogen, which play essential roles in both male and female fertility. Dr. Burns also delves into how strength training can enhance insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support those with conditions like PCOS. If you’re curious about how to fine-tune your exercise routine for fertility, this episode provides valuable insights into why strength training might be the key to balancing your hormones and optimizing your chances of conception.In this episode, you will learn:The role of strength training in hormone regulation and fertilityWhy cardio might not be the best exercise for hormonal balanceThe connection between strength training, human growth hormone, and fertilityHow strength training can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammationBest strength training exercises for fertility (squats, lunges, deadlifts)Tips for incorporating strength training into your fertility routineTimestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction to Dr. Christina Burns and the topic of the day[00:02:00] Why strength training is better for hormonal balance than cardio[00:05:30] The connection between human growth hormone, testosterone, and fertility[00:10:00] Strength training’s role in insulin sensitivity and inflammation reduction[00:15:00] Exercises that support hormone health (squats, deadlifts, lunges)[00:20:00] Why over-exercising can harm fertility[00:25:00] Practical tips for balancing strength training with a fertility-friendly lifestyle[00:30:00] Conclusion and final thoughtsAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/