The Best Fertility, Pregnancy & Postpartum Nutrition Protocols | Lily Nichols

WATCH THE FULL-LENGTH EPISODE HERE ON YOUTUBE! 

In this episode, I sit down with registered dietitian and best-selling author Lily Nichols, whose work has transformed how we think about fertility and prenatal nutrition. We dive into the rising rates of infertility, the shocking decline in sperm quality, and how nutrient-dense foods like organ meats, eggs, and shellfish provide the building blocks for both egg and sperm health. Lily also shares the truth about protein requirements, fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, and why conventional guidelines often miss the mark.

We talk about practical strategies for preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery - from supporting insulin sensitivity in PCOS to replenishing nutrient stores after birth. Lily’s research-driven yet practical wisdom is essential for anyone preparing for pregnancy, navigating postpartum, or simply wanting to support long-term metabolic health.

A few of my favorite things we cover in this episode: 

• Why fertility challenges are rising today - and the role nutrition plays.
• Declining sperm quality and why the “goalposts” for male fertility keep shifting.
• The importance of protein for fertility and pregnancy - and why most women need far more than current guidelines suggest.
• Nutrient-dense foods for preconception and pregnancy: organ meats, shellfish, eggs, and whole-food carbs.
• The truth about vitamin A, fat-soluble vitamins, and why liver in moderation can be so beneficial.
• The impact of seed oils and why they contribute to inflammation.
• Understanding PCOS phenotypes and how nutrition can support them.
• Postpartum recovery: why moms are most depleted during this season and how to replenish.
• Breastfeeding realities, milk supply, and the importance of lactation support.
• Supplements and micronutrients that matter most for both women and men.

Links to things we talked about in this episode: 

• Start your love story on Bumble. #bumblepartner
• Subscribe to Nan's email list at nansfoods.com for first access to new launches, exclusive discounts, and wholesome kitchen inspiration delivered straight to your inbox. It’s a simple way to bring a little more ease—and a lot more flavor—to your everyday life. And because you're part of this podcast community, receive free shipping on your first order with the code willcole at checkout. Just head to nansfoods.com!
• Head to moshlife.com/WILLCOLE to save 20% off plus FREE shipping on the Best sellers Trial Pack or the NEW plant-based trial pack.
• Go to Quince.com/willcole for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five-day returns. Now available in Canada!
• As a listener ofThe Art of Being Well, you’ll get30% off your first purchase of Get Joy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food plus two exclusive gifts: a free scoop and a 4oz bag of treats. Shop getjoyfood.com/willcole to fuel your dog’s gut health and longevity.

Happy listening and we hope you learned a little bit more on the art of being well!

If you like what you hear, please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe and pass it along to a friend.

In Health,

Dr. Will Cole