Preeclampsia, Protein & What Your Early Labs Are Really Telling You — with Sarah Thompson
This week I sat down with Sarah Thompson, a functional medicine provider who specializes in maternity care.
And here's the thing that makes her work so different: most prenatal care is focused on your baby.
We got into the stuff I think every pregnant mom deserves to understand...especially the things that are often preventable but rarely talked about until they become a full-blown emergency. We get into preeclampsia, the protein debate where she and I didn't quite agree, first-trimester cravings, sleep, and so much more. Grab a notebook for this one.
Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode:
[01:45] What functional medicine actually is — and the difference between "care of the baby" and "care of the mother" that reframes everything.
[05:30] How Sarah's own birth experience sent her down this path — and made her fall in love with how cool pregnancy really is.
[07:15] Why so many preeclampsia cases are preventable — and how far back the prevention window actually starts. This is the part every mama needs.
[12:00] The "preeclampsia mimickers" — the conditions that look and act just like preeclampsia but aren't. Do NOT skip this section.
[16:30] The protein conversation where Sarah and I respectfully disagreed (but mostly agreed 😉). You get to hear both sides and land wherever feels right for you.
[21:00] Why your first-trimester body is begging for carbs — and the fascinating science behind those bagel cravings.
[26:00] The truth about heme vs non-heme iron — and the most effective way to actually raise low iron. I actually found this part fascinating, so I hope you do too!
[32:00] The early lab markers that can flag preeclampsia risk — and the important caution about who's reading them.
[36:30] The one thing you cannot diet or supplement your way out of. (Fair warning — you might feel a little called out. 😅)
[39:00] Exercise, stress, and why "warrior-style" workouts might not be serving your pregnant body.
[41:00] Sarah's one message for every pregnant mama
One quick note before you listen — this episode is for information and education, not medical advice. Always work with a provider you trust for your pregnancy and birth.
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Links & Resources
Connect with Sarah:
📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/functional.maternity/
🌐 Website: www.functionalmaternity.com
ALL my love,
