Nourish to Nurture: What I Wish I Knew About Nutrition, Fertility & Motherhood

When I got married, I wasn’t even 22 yet.

Like many young women, I had dreams of one day becoming a mum. But in the year leading up to our wedding, I felt this strong pull to start looking after my health on a deeper level — not just to fit into a dress or look good in photos (although let’s be honest, that was part of it), but because I genuinely wanted to prepare my body for the next chapter: motherhood.

So I did something that, in hindsight, probably changed the course of my entire health journey.

I saw a homeopath.

At the time, I was still smoking, had ongoing skin issues, and let’s just say I wasn’t exactly thriving. I didn’t realise it then, but that one appointment opened the door to years of discovery — food sensitivities, gut health, salicylate intolerance, and a long, exhausting relationship with cortisone creams and topical steroids.

Of course, I didn’t know I was signing up for all that at the time. My focus was simple: get as healthy as I could before trying to conceive.

Sounds logical… until you realise how complicated "healthy" can get when your skin flares up every time you eat a strawberry.

The Road to Falling Pregnant (Wasn’t as Smooth as I’d Hoped)

After the wedding, we started trying for a baby. But it didn’t happen right away. Month after month, I waited… and nothing.

A whole year passed, and I couldn’t help but worry — had being on the pill affected my chances? Was there something wrong?

What I didn’t consider was what my body was running on: stress, minimal sleep, not enough protein, a lot of processed food, high carbs, and far too much sugar. I wasn’t supplementing. I wasn’t supporting my hormones. And truthfully? I had never even heard of omega-3s or flaxseeds.

I just didn’t know what I didn’t know.

Looking Back With Clarity (and Compassion)

Now that I’m older, wiser, and have spent years studying health and wellness, I can see exactly where the gaps were:

• I wasn’t eating to support my hormones or reproductive system

• I had nutrient deficiencies I didn’t even know about

• My gut and skin were already showing signs of deeper inflammation

• And I was trying to conceive in a body that was stressed out and undernourished

No one ever pulled me aside and said, “Hey, what you eat actually matters — not just for you, but for your future baby.”

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & A Full House

Eventually, we did fall pregnant. And just when I thought we had enough on our plate, our 14-year-old stepdaughter came to live with us. So there I was — pregnant, hormonal, navigating early marriage and teen step-parenting.

When my daughter was born, I was determined to breastfeed. And let me tell you — it wasn’t easy. It took persistence, a few tears, and a lot of late-night feeding marathons, but we got there. I breastfed her for 8 months and then slowly weaned, so she ended up having breast milk for around 12 months in total.

She was my first, and I had the energy to cook her meals, make healthy choices, and figure things out as I went. It wasn’t perfect, but it was thoughtful.

Then came my son.

He was… different.

Let’s just say, he came into the world with a bite. Literally. Breastfeeding ended as soon as those little teeth arrived. I wasn't about to lose a nipple over it. So I moved to solids earlier, relying more on food jars and quick options — because life was busy, I was juggling three kids now, and survival mode had kicked in.

But here’s the part I still reflect on with a heavy heart: My son ended up developing allergies, eczema, and asthma. And while genetics absolutely play a role, I truly believe the difference in diet — especially the early introduction of processed foods — was a contributing factor.

No Shame, Just Lessons

Motherhood doesn’t come with a manual — and we all just do the best we can. But looking back, I wish I’d had someone to guide me.

Someone who could’ve said: “You know what? You don’t need to be perfect. But your nutrition matters — for you and your future kids.”

That’s why I do what I do now. As a wellness coach and soon-to-be qualified PT and nutritionist, I help women prepare their bodies for what’s ahead — whether that’s conception, energy, or simply feeling better in their skin.

I don’t treat or diagnose, and I stay well within my scope. But I do support women with:

• Building nourishing habits during preconception

• Learning how to support hormone and gut health naturally

• Identifying possible inflammatory foods

• Encouraging a balanced approach to food, mindset, and lifestyle

  
  

  

  
  

Aunties, Mums & What Comes Next

These days, my kids are grown, and I’ve stepped into a new season. I absolutely love being an aunt. There’s something magical about spending time with little ones… and then handing them back. And while I haven’t become a grandma just yet, I know that day will come — and I’ll be ready with open arms, probably a snack, and definitely some cheeky advice.

But I’ll also be the one whispering to the next generation of women: “You don’t have to figure it all out at once. But if you want to feel good in your body, it starts with what’s on your plate.”

Ready to Start Your Health Journey?

If you're thinking about motherhood or just want to support your body better — now’s the time. I’m currently offering free discovery calls for women who want guidance with nutrition, lifestyle, and holistic wellness.

No pressure, no pushy sales — just a real chat about your goals.

👉 Book your call here

Final Thoughts

Being a mum has been one of the most rewarding, challenging, and eye-opening experiences of my life. But if I’ve learned anything, it’s this:

You can’t pour from an empty cup — especially when there are little mouths depending on you.

And if I could sit down with my 21-year-old self and offer some advice, it wouldn’t be about carbs or protein or prenatal vitamins. It would be:

“Travel the world. Explore. Figure out who you are… before trying to look after another human being.”

Because when you take care of yourself first — body, mind, and spirit — you're not just preparing for motherhood. You're building the kind of foundation that can support whatever life throws your way.

Disclaimer: The information shared in this post is based on personal experience and general wellness guidance. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, please consult with your doctor, midwife, or a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle. Always seek professional support tailored to your individual needs.