Trying to conceive (TTC) is filled with cycles of hope, disappointment, medical stress, and deep uncertainty. If you’re not emotionally drained then you’re anxious and that eventually takes a toll on your mental and physical health. Infertility affects roughly 12% of couples in the United States and it is described as a major life stressor.… Continue reading Nurturing Science Backed Ways to Stay Positive While TTC
Why Child Milestone Charts Are Ranges Not Rules
Every baby develops at their own pace. Milestone charts can be helpful guides for tracking progress but they are not a rigid schedule your child must follow. The developmental milestones refer to the behaviors and physical abilities that infants and toddlers typically achieve at certain ages. Yet there’s a wide range of what’s considered typical. … Continue reading Why Child Milestone Charts Are Ranges Not Rules
Stage 2 Kidney Disease Lifestyle Changes That Actually Slow Damage
With stage 2 chronic kidney disease, your kidneys are working a little less efficiently, but you might not have any symptoms yet. For many people at the early stages of this disease, it does not feel like major changes are needed! After all, if there are no symptoms, how bad can the damage to your… Continue reading Stage 2 Kidney Disease Lifestyle Changes That Actually Slow Damage
What is Friedreich’s Ataxia
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA or FRDA) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s nerves and muscles. It is an inherited recessive mutation in the gene called FXN (frataxin) which leads to a deficiency of a protein that cells need for energy production. Without enough frataxin certain cells within the nervous system, heart, and muscles… Continue reading What is Friedreich’s Ataxia
What Happens If a Dose Is Missed During IVF Treatment?
IVF treatments come with a strict schedule of medications and missing a dose during IVF can understandably trigger panic.. It is a full time job to manage all the medications and the schedule. Whether it’s an estradiol pill, the crucial hCG trigger shot, or a daily progesterone supplement, your mind may race to the absolute… Continue reading What Happens If a Dose Is Missed During IVF Treatment?
Is Protein Bad for Kidneys?
Surprise surprise! The foods you eat impact how well your body functions. Most of us have heard of the three main macronutrients that we all need to survive: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These three nutrients together give us energy and support a wide range of different body functions. For people with chronic kidney disease (CKD),… Continue reading Is Protein Bad for Kidneys?
How Much Protein Do You Actually Need During Perimenopause and Menopause
Protein helps preserve muscle, boosts metabolism, and supports your energy. Research shows that women lose 0.6% in muscle mass each year after menopause starts. If you’ve been slacking on your protein intake lately or you’re not sure you’re getting enough, it’s fair to ask: Do I need to eat more protein during menopause? In this… Continue reading How Much Protein Do You Actually Need During Perimenopause and Menopause
Summer Carbs That Don’t Spike Blood Sugar
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh produce and seasonal dishes, but if you’re living with chronic kidney disease and watching your blood sugar, navigating carbohydrates can feel tricky. The good news is you don’t have to cut out all your favorite foods, like potatoes, corn, and watermelon. With a little strategy, you can… Continue reading Summer Carbs That Don’t Spike Blood Sugar
Four Tips For Mindful Eating and Enjoying Eating Food
Having chronic kidney disease means making careful choices about what you eat. It can be hard to enjoy meals when you are always thinking about what you cannot have! But there is a simple change you can make that can help bring more satisfaction and peace to the table: practicing gratitude and mindfulness. Gratitude and… Continue reading Four Tips For Mindful Eating and Enjoying Eating Food
Are You Putting Your Life On Hold While TTC?
It’s hard to enjoy life to the fullest when you’re mentally and emotionally ready for the next chapter but you just can’t get there. You’re doing all the right things: tracking cycles, making appointments, rearranging your life around medications and procedures. Yet it feels like life is passing you by. How can you be present… Continue reading Are You Putting Your Life On Hold While TTC?