Episodes

  • 411 | Nutrition from Conception to 2 Years of Newborn Babies with Dr. Fede Amati

    411 | Nutrition from Conception to 2 Years of Newborn Babies with Dr. Fede Amati
    Jun 2 2025
    Pelvic Floor Foundations Community Challenge:Community Challenge Time! If you are someone looking for some more connection with your pelvic floor, but don’t know where to start, we have the perfect course for you! Our Pelvic Floor Foundations Course on Jen Health offers a deep dive exploration into your pelvic floor connection. It will help you build and develop dynamic and integrated function when it comes to how your pelvic floor works within your movement patterns. The course is on Early-Bird Promo this week only! As a podcast listener, you can get a special discount using code PELVICVIP at checkout. Learn more and sign up here!Needed Discount:Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off.Dr Federica's Resources and Links:Dr Federica's InstagramDr Federica's WebsiteLearn More About ZOEZOE Science and Nutrition PodcastWe think you’ll love:Free Week of Jen Health MembershipJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full show notes and resources, visit: https://jen.health/podcast/411What You Will Learn From Dr Fede:04:29 Dr. Amati emphasizes the importance of the first thousand days in shaping a child's future health.06:56 Dr. Amati explains the concept of "windows of opportunity" in early life nutrition and health.08:29 Discussion on the significance of nutrition in the 90 days before conception for both partners.10:42 Dr. Amati highlights the importance of nutrition in building the baby and placenta during pregnancy.12:55 Dr. Amati discusses the detrimental effects of added sugars during pregnancy on future health.14:30 Importance of iron and nutrient-dense foods in a pregnant woman's diet for optimal health outcomes.16:14 Higher consumption of ultra-processed foods during pregnancy worsens outcomes for mothers and children.19:04 Following a Mediterranean diet improves fertility and pregnancy outcomes, supported by extensive research.23:44 Good nutritional status before conception aids embryonic development and supports early pregnancy health.25:53 Cold foods and bland options can help manage pregnancy-related nausea and ensure nutrient intake.29:41 Mode of delivery affects gut microbiome exposure, impacting the baby's immune system development.32:23 Breast milk provides essential nutrients and immune support, acting as a secondary immune system for newborns.34:25 Comparison of breastfeeding education and practices in different countries, emphasizing community support.39:16 Explanation of how a baby's nutrition in early life affects their immune system and allergy risks.41:20 Recommendation for early introduction of allergens to potentially reduce allergy risks in children.42:26 Encouragement to wean babies on whole foods instead of processed baby food products.44:31 Discussion on the prevalence of ultra-processed foods in children's diets and its implications.47:31 Advice on allowing toddlers to make choices about their food to foster independence and agency.49:20 Discussion on offering healthy food options to picky eaters and their natural hunger cues.51:15 Importance of establishing a home food environment that encourages healthy eating habits in children.54:50 Building an environment that supports health, including food choices and lifestyle adjustments.
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    59 mins
  • 410 | Foot Q&A | Bunions, Toe Spacers, Plantar Fasciitis and More!

    410 | Foot Q&A | Bunions, Toe Spacers, Plantar Fasciitis and More!
    May 26 2025

    Pelvic Floor Foundations Discount:

    If you are someone looking for some more connection with your pelvic floor, but don’t know where to start, look no further! We are starting a community challenge with our Pelvic Floor Foundations Course and go on a deep dive exploration into your pelvic floor connection. It will help you build and develop dynamic and integrated function when it comes to how your pelvic floor works within your movement patterns. We will be starting all together on June 8th and our Early-Bird discount ends soon! Come join us and feel the difference you can make in your pelvic health!

    Needed Discount:

    Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off.

    We think you’ll love:
    • Pelvic Floor Foundations
    • Plantar Fasciitis Guide
    • Jen’s Instagram
    • Dom’s Instagram
    • YouTube Channel

    For full show notes and resources, please visit: https://jen.health/podcast/410

    What You Will Learn:

    3:05 Discussion on foot health's complexity and its significance in daily life.

    6:24 Study findings on how toe spacers can help improve bunions and toe alignment.

    7:52 Discussion on foot structure and how traditional footwear affects foot health.

    9:49 Addressing the possibility of calming and potentially reversing bunions through exercises.

    12:14 Critique of the belief that bunions cannot be changed and encouraging proactive care.

    14:39 Beginning the discussion on plantar fasciitis and its underlying causes.

    16:46 Emphasis on the necessity of movement in the healing process for plantar fasciitis.

    19:10 Techniques for strengthening the foot, including heel raises and toe elevation.

    20:15 Importance of analyzing walking patterns and their effects on foot health.

    22:25 Advice on maintaining foot health and strength during pregnancy.
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    26 mins
  • Episode 409 | The Myths & Facts of Nutrition During Pregnancy and Postpartum with Dr. Jessica Knurick

    Episode 409 | The Myths & Facts of Nutrition During Pregnancy and Postpartum with Dr. Jessica Knurick
    May 19 2025
    Needed Discount:Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off.VivoBarefoot Discount:We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠!**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!Dr Jessica's Resources and Links:Dr Jessica's InstagramDr Jessica on TikTokDr Jessica's SubstackDr Jessica's Facebook PageDr Jessica's BlogWe think you’ll love:Free Week of Jen HealthJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full show notes and resources, visit: https://jen.health/podcast/409What You will Learn From Dr Knurick:07:05 Dr. Jessica discusses common myths surrounding food and nutrition during pregnancy.10:32 Dr. Jessica highlights the importance of personalized dietary advice over blanket recommendations.14:05 Current guidelines on caffeine intake during pregnancy are discussed, emphasizing moderation.15:52 Discussion on the importance of third-party tested protein powders for pregnant women to avoid unlisted additives.17:04 Exploration of the risks of consuming raw milk and cheese during pregnancy due to food borne illness.19:04 Differentiation between raw fish and other food risks, emphasizing sourcing quality for sushi safety.21:03 Explanation of the timing and process for gestational diabetes testing during pregnancy, including risk factors.25:08 Discussion on the importance of understanding gestational diabetes testing as a positive identification, not a failure.32:24 Debunking myths around food and activities claimed to induce labor, emphasizing evidence-based practices.36:56 Transitioning to postpartum nutrition, discussing formula versus breastfeeding and common misconceptions.42:10 Explaining the presence of seed oils in infant formulas and their nutritional relevance.44:07 Discussing dietary strategies to optimize breast milk supply during the postpartum period.46:59 Discussion on the pressures new moms feel to lose weight postpartum and the importance of focusing on health instead.
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    50 mins
  • 408 | Neck Adjustments: Helpful or Hurtful?

    408 | Neck Adjustments: Helpful or Hurtful?
    May 12 2025

    LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!

    Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift!

    Free Week of the Jen Health Membership - Neck Plan:

    Are you someone who has consistent neck pain or issues? Always searching for the crack? Want to finally get lasting relief?! We have a full Neck and Upper Back Plan that you can follow in our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. You get your first week for free! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!

    We think you’ll love:
    • Jen Health Monthly Discount
    • Low Back Pain Guide
    • Jen’s Instagram
    • Dom’s Instagram
    • YouTube Channel

    For full episode show notes and resources, visit: https://jen.health/podcast/408

    What You Will Learn:

    2:01 They address common misconceptions regarding spinal alignment and the effects of adjustments.

    4:13 The hosts reference a 2015 study about the mechanics of spinal manipulation.

    6:25 Impact of Manipulations on Pain
    Discussion on how manipulations affect pain perception and brain response.

    7:32 A study is mentioned regarding the effectiveness of spinal manipulation at different sites.

    8:54 The hosts explain that manipulations have a wider effect beyond the targeted area.

    10:27 They discuss the benefits of combining manipulation with exercise for better outcomes.

    12:28 The hosts mention alternative methods for pain relief if manipulation is not preferred.
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    16 mins
  • 407 | How Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Optimize Health for Men & Women with Dr. Greg Brannon

    407 | How Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Optimize Health for Men & Women with Dr. Greg Brannon
    May 4 2025
    VivoBarefoot Discount:We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠!There's a bonus promo going on until May 15th! You can get a special 25% off using code TOB25 at checkout. This code works on all shoes that are not discounted and doesn't work on the Senus Slide, Senus Yin, and Gobi Sneaker.**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift!Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!Dr Brannon's Resources and Links:Optimal Bio WebsiteDr Brannon's InstagramOptimal Bio Youtube ChannelOptimal Bio Facebook PageFree Hormone HandbookWe think you’ll love:Free Week of Jen HealthJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full episode show notes and resources, visit: https://jen.health/podcast/407What You'll Learn from Dr Brannon: 02:55 Dr. Brannon shares his journey and the founding of Optimal Bio, focusing on hormone health.04:54 Dr. Brannon discusses the misconceptions about women's mental health related to hormonal changes.06:10 Emphasis on testosterone's crucial role in overall health and its decline over the years.08:38 Dr. Brannon explains how testosterone affects every cell in the body and its importance for mental health.11:47 Exploration of how environmental endocrine disruptors affect hormone levels and health.15:43 Dr. Brannon identifies major environmental chemicals that disrupt hormone balance and their consequences.17:05 Discussion on the rising infertility rates among men and the shared responsibility in infertility issues.18:00 Environmental Impact on HormonesExploration of environmental factors, like phthalates, affecting hormone health and fertility.24:18 Introduction to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and its advantages over synthetic options.27:16 Recommendation for beginning hormone therapy at age 18 for optimal health benefits.30:14 High retention rate of patients seeking hormone optimization and their satisfaction with results.33:04 Dr. Greg shares his journey from skepticism to belief in the benefits of hormone therapy.34:42 Dr. Greg outlines five key factors for optimal health: sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress management, and hormone restoration.35:42 Comparison of synthetic and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, highlighting safety and efficacy.39:44 Emphasis on the necessity of certain supplements due to nutrient depletion in modern diets.
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    48 mins
  • 406 | Listener Q & A | Hip Flexors, SI Out of Place, Mobility & More!

    406 | Listener Q & A | Hip Flexors, SI Out of Place, Mobility & More!
    Apr 28 2025
    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, co-hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, answer listener questions on physical therapy, body mechanics, and pain management. They debunk myths about bunions, joint alignment, and hip pain, emphasizing the importance of strength, mobility, and proper footwear. Doc Jen highlights the benefits of barefoot shoes for foot health, while Doctor Dom clarifies misconceptions about the sacroiliac joint. They also discuss pain sensitization and the complexities of hip issues, advocating for a holistic approach to understanding and treating pain.VivoBarefoot Discount:We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠!There's a bonus promo going on until May 15th! You can get a special 25% off using code TOB25 at checkout. This code works on all shoes that are not discounted and doesn't work on the Senus Slide, Senus Yin, and Gobi Sneaker.**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift!Jen Health Annual Membership Discount:Don’t miss out! We are having a massive discount on our Annual Membership on Jen Health! As our podcast listener, you’ll get the best discount of all using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! If you’ve been considering getting started on one of our 12 Therapy Plans, now is the time! You’ll get over a 50% discount when you use OPTIMAL10 to start your free trial of the Annual Membership. Come move with us!We think you’ll love:Jen Health Monthly DiscountBarefoot Mini CourseJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelHead to this link for full show notes and resources: https://jen.health/podcast/406What You'll Learn: 3:22 Addressing misconceptions about joint alignment, particularly regarding the acromioclavicular (AC) joint.4:39 Discussing how pain is often due to sensitization rather than actual misalignment of joints.7:36 Explaining how manipulative techniques provide temporary relief through neurological responses, not realignment.9:29 Strategies for reducing pain through improved mobility and understanding core coordination.11:50 Exploring ilio psoas bursitis, its causes, and the importance of assessing mobility versus strength.13:51 Understanding the intricate movements of the hip joint and their connection to core stability.15:53 Discussion on how mobility routines can cause soreness for those who are not used to activity.17:33 Body Guarding and Pain Sensitization20:32 Overview of a foot and ankle plan included in the membership to address restrictions and plantar fasciitis.
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    22 mins
  • 405 | Why I Hired A Doula and What They Do With Soul Shine Birth

    405 | Why I Hired A Doula and What They Do With Soul Shine Birth
    Apr 21 2025
    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore the crucial role of doulas in the birthing process with Kelsey and Aurora from Soul Shine Birth. They discuss how doulas provide emotional, physical, and educational support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. The conversation highlights the benefits of having a doula, such as improved birth outcomes and a more empowered birthing experience. Kelsey and Aurora emphasize the importance of advocacy in hospital settings and the value of personalized care. They also introduce their comprehensive birth and postpartum courses, offering listeners a discount code for further learning.Jen Health Annual Membership Discount:Don’t miss out! We are having a massive discount on our Annual Membership on Jen Health! As our podcast listener, you’ll get the best discount of all using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! If you’ve been considering getting started on one of our 12 Therapy Plans, now is the time! You’ll get over a 50% discount when you use OPTIMAL10 to start your free trial of the Annual Membership. Come move with us!Needed Discount:Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off.Soul Shine's Resources and Links:Soul Shine's WebsiteSoul Shine's InstagramSoul Shine's BlogGet $50 off any of Soul Shine's in person or virtual services with code OPTIMALBODY.We think you’ll love:Jen Health Membership DiscountJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full show notes and resources, visit: https://jen.health/podcast/405What You Will Learn From Kelsey and Rori:3:27 Jen shares her positive experience with doulas and their role in birth support.5:01 Discussion on the definition and historical context of doulas.7:53 Kelsey explains the difference between doulas, midwives, and OBs.10:08 Kelsey shares data showing improved birth outcomes with doula support.11:40 Discussion on how doulas support partners during the birthing process.15:15 Discussion on how doulas advocate for mothers in various birth environments.18:22 Discussion on how interventions can lead to cesarean sections and the importance of informed choices.20:59 Selecting a supportive provider is crucial for a positive birth experience and aligning with birth preferences.24:57 Choosing the right provider impacts birth outcomes; midwives often have lower intervention rates than OBs.27:52 Choosing a doula should be about connection and comfort, not just certifications or experience.33:41 Overview of the services provided by Soul Shine doulas, including personalized support options.35:16 Insights into stages of labor, challenges, and how partners can support during birth.37:27 Sharing personal experiences about the challenges and joys of new parenthood.39:35 Exploration of how doulas assist families in developing flexible birth plans.45:31 Discussing options for families concerned about the costs of hiring a doula.
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    52 mins
  • 404 | My Healing Journey Postpartum

    404 | My Healing Journey Postpartum
    Apr 14 2025
    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen shares her postpartum journey following her second childbirth, a vaginal birth, contrasting it with her first cesarean experience. Joined by Doctor Dom, they discuss the physical and emotional challenges of postpartum recovery, emphasizing the importance of support, pelvic floor health, and proper nutrition. Doc Jen highlights the use of supportive products and the significance of a strong mindset. They also address managing an older child while caring for a newborn and the societal pressures on postpartum aesthetics. The episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for new mothers navigating their postpartum experiences.VivoBarefoot Discount:We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠!**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.Needed Discount:Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off.Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!We think you’ll love:Jen Health Monthly DiscountPelvic Floor Foundations CourseFree Postpartum GuideJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelHead to this link for the full show notes and resources: https://jen.health/podcast/404What You Will Hear in This Episode:1:50 Doc Jen begins sharing her postpartum healing journey, contrasting it with her first childbirth experience.3:11 Doc Jen discusses her recovery experience, including pelvic floor symptoms and healing from a vaginal birth.5:01 Doc Jen highlights the supplements she's taking postpartum to support breastfeeding and overall health.7:09 Doc Jen shares insights on her ability to have a vaginal birth despite previous cesarean concerns.8:03 Doc Jen describes the early challenges of postpartum recovery, including fear of bowel movements.9:51 Doc Jen discusses the mental challenges of postpartum recovery and the importance of mindset.12:28 Doc Jen talks about the need for individualized recovery plans based on birth experiences and symptoms.13:58 Doc Jen offers strategies for managing care of an older child while recovering postpartum.16:25 Doc Jen discusses the advantages of vaginal birth, particularly in terms of mobility and recovery compared to cesarean.17:48 She shares the emotional challenges of postpartum hormo...
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    53 mins
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