How much of your fertility is written in your DNA, and how much can you actually influence? In this episode, I'm joined by genetic counselor Natalie Samson to explore the fascinating world of genetics, epigenetics, and what they really mean for your fertility journey. Natalie breaks down the difference between the genes you're born with and how those genes get expressed, which is where epigenetics comes in. We talk about how your nutrition, stress, environment, and daily choices can turn certain genes on or off, and why that shift is so empowering. We also get into why MTHFR is only one gene out of more than 20,000, the role of methylation and hormone metabolism, what carrier screening can reveal about both male and female fertility, and how personalized testing can take the guesswork out of supporting your body. This is a grounded, hopeful conversation about understanding your unique blueprint. Your body isn't broken. Sometimes it's simply waiting for the right information. Key Takeaways: - The genes you're born with don't change, but how they're expressed can shift based on your nutrition, stress, environment, and lifestyle. This is the heart of epigenetics, and it puts more in your hands than most people realize. - MTHFR is just one gene out of more than 20,000. Looking at the full methylation pathway, rather than MTHFR alone, gives a much clearer picture of how to support your body. - More methylated B vitamins isn't always better. With certain gene variants like COMT, too much can actually drive anxiety, a racing heart, and trouble sleeping, so personalized dosing matters. - Carrier screening can reveal more than inherited conditions. It can sometimes uncover hidden contributors to both male and female infertility. - Genetic testing can guide truly personalized nutrition by showing how you process folate, omega-3s, histamine, and gluten, instead of prescribing a one-size-fits-all diet. - Your intuition counts as data. The most useful approach combines genetic testing, bloodwork, and your own felt sense of your body. - Privacy matters. Working with a HIPAA-compliant provider keeps your genetic information protected in ways that direct-to-consumer testing often does not. Guest Bio: Natalie Samson, MS, CGC, INHC, is a board-certified genetic counselor and integrative nutrition health coach, and the founder of Golden Genetics. After training in cancer genetics, she felt called toward a more proactive and preventative approach, inspired in part by watching her brother thrive through holistic, lifestyle-based care. Today she blends conventional genetic testing with functional, nutrition-focused interpretation to help people understand their unique genetic blueprint and make personalized, empowered choices for their health and fertility. Her practice is fully virtual, and she works with individuals and couples through preconception and beyond. Natalie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneticswithnatalie/ Golden Genetics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldengeneticshealth/ Website: https://www.goldengeneticshealth.com/ Book a Logistics call with Natalie: https://www.goldengeneticshealth.com/book-a-discovery-call-1 Natalie's 4P Framework Quiz: https://form.typeform.com/to/RkvZ32qV Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus

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