Ep. 327: Protein in Pregnancy: What you should eat, how much and why with Amanda Howell

In this episode, Amanda joins HeHe to discuss the critical importance of protein intake for women, specifically regarding overall health, pregnancy, and fertility. Key topics include basic protein requirements, potential deficiencies, the role of protein during pregnancy trimesters, and protein's impact on fetal growth and postpartum recovery. Amanda emphasizes the need for intentional eating, recommending strategies for protein intake through diet and supplements while debunking popular myths about nutrition trends such as collagen and soy. This episode offers practical advice for women at various stages of their reproductive journey, highlighting the broad-reaching benefits of adequate protein consumption.

Guest Bio:

Amanda Howell is a dedicated public health professional and current Master of Science in Nursing student specializing in women's health, with a focus on pre and postnatal nutrition and fitness. She is committed to providing evidence-based insights that empower women to make informed decisions. Amanda emphasizes the vital connection between proper nutrition during pregnancy and improved health outcomes, striving to support women through education, advocacy, and accessible resources. 03:10 Introducing the Birth Lounge App

04:24 Today's Topic: Protein in Pregnancy

06:34 Special Guest: Amanda Howell

07:48 The Importance of Protein in Pregnancy

21:04 Understanding Protein Sources

27:27 Debunking Soy Myths

34:53 Navigating Shift Work and Sleep

42:21 Navigating the Wild West of Supplements

42:39 Choosing Safe and Reputable Protein Brands

42:50 Importance of Protein During Pregnancy

43:19 Third-Party Testing for Supplements

43:35 Avoiding Unsafe Ingredients in Supplements

44:02 Artificial Sweeteners and Personal Preferences

44:48 Recommended Protein Brands

48:02 Protein's Role in Conception and Pregnancy

51:00 Protein Deficiency and Fertility Issues

52:09 Protein's Impact on Hormones and Stress

55:56 Optimizing Protein Intake for Pregnancy

01:05:05 Postpartum Protein Needs and Recovery

01:07:16 Quick and Easy Protein Snacks for New Moms

01:11:23 The Importance of Protein for Overall Health

01:14:15 Stress and Its Impact on Pregnancy

01:16:48 Final Thoughts and Resources

SOCIAL MEDIA:

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BIRTH EDUCATION:

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Watch the Avoid a C-Section webinar here!

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Connect with Amanda here!

Get HeHe’s favorite protein powder from Just Ingredients, here!

Optimum Nutrition Prepared Protein Shakes

Premier Protein Prepared Protein Shakes