Holistic Health Strategies for Moms | Dietary Supplements, Vaccines, Natural Remedies, Healthy Recipes
Do you feel unheard and dismissed by the medical system because you’re “just a mom”? Are you tired of spending too much time trying to find answers to your health concerns but not knowing who/what you can trust? Do you wish that you could cut through the noise and understand the research you’re finding? What’s real and what’s not? Are you frustrated by a medical system that appears to focus more on sickcare than healthcare? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! This podcast was created to give you the confidence you need to make informed medical decisions. You won’t have to struggle anymore knowing how to answer people who disagree with your choices, and you will learn simple tips to read the research and make the decisions you need to make for your family with confidence. Hi, I’m Heather. I’m a wife, mom, and certified health educator passionate about helping people know more and fear less. For years, I made healthcare decisions that were a bit unconventional, but I never felt confident about my choices because I lacked knowledge of how the system worked, and it seemed too confusing. Over the years, I’ve learned to listen to my gut, and I went back to school to know the truth about health. That experience helped me create a fear-shattering system that has helped me navigate this arena with increasing confidence. Now, I am here to share it with you! Together, we will cut through the noise and navigate the tricky landscape of insurance and doctor partnerships, medical conflicts of interest, the history of various medical procedures, and follow the money trail. I’ll also answer your questions on the topics you’re asking real questions about, like vaccines, health insurance, natural home solutions, and an optimal diet. If you are ready to debunk some health myths with reliable research, Expose the lies that are holding you back, Gain real strategy and confidence surrounding your healthcare decisions, And do all of that while keeping up with your busy mom life… Then grab that cup of coffee that’s been in the microwave three times now, and let’s get to learning!
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
Hey there, and welcome back! 👋
In today’s episode, I’m taking a break from all the noise in the health world — you know, the “top 5 must-do” lists and all the conflicting advice — and instead, I’m turning to the people who are actually living the healthiest, longest lives.
We’re kicking off a mini-series exploring the Blue Zones, starting with the dreamy island of Ikaria, Greece (seriously, can we all just move there?).
I’ll be chatting about what makes this place so special when it comes to health and longevity — from their food and drinks to their lifestyle and mindset.
So if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the health “shoulds,” this one’s for you. Let’s get curious, inspired, and maybe even a little more relaxed about what true wellness and an optimal diet looks like.
Can’t wait to dive in with you!
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Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Sign up for the Own Your Health Workshop: https://www.heatherbedard.com/ownyourhealth
—-------
Want to work together?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
----------
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik
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Sources:
https://www.thewinebuzz.com/wines-ikaria-travel-odyssey/
https://kalebrock.com.au/longevity-wine/?v=ef10366317f4
Ramchandani VA, Kwo PY, Li TK. Effect of food and food composition on alcohol elimination rates in healthy men and women. J Clin Pharmacol. 2001;41(12):1345-1350. doi:10.1177/00912700122012814
Siasos G, Oikonomou E, Chrysohoou C, et al. Consumption of a boiled Greek type of coffee is associated with improved endothelial function: The Ikaria Study. Vascular Medicine. 2013;18(2):55-62. doi:10.1177/1358863X13480258
Tomotake H, Okuyama R, Katagiri M, Fuzita M, Yamato M, Ota F. Comparison between Holstein cow's milk and Japanese-Saanen goat's milk in fatty acid composition, lipid digestibility and protein profile. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2006;70(11):2771-2774. doi:10.1271/bbb.60267
Costa WK, Souza EL, Beltrão-Filho EM, et al. Comparative protein composition analysis of goat milk produced by the Alpine and Saanen breeds in northeastern Brazil and related antibacterial activities. PLoS One. 2014;9(3):e93361. Published 2014 Mar 27. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0093361
http://www.dieteticai.ufba.br/temas/leitederivados/cabra%20e%20ovelha.pdf
Panagiotakos DB, Chrysohoou C, Siasos G, et al. Sociodemographic and lifestyle statistics of oldest old people (>80 years) living in ikaria island: the ikaria study. Cardiol Res Pract. 2011;2011:679187. Published 2011 Feb 24. doi:10.4061/2011/679187
Campbell SS, Stanchina MD, Schlang JR, Murphy PJ. Effects of a month-long napping regimen in older individuals. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2011;59(2):224-232. doi:10.1111/j.1532-5415.2010.03264.x
Evans IEM, Martyr A, Collins R, Brayne C, Clare L. Social Isolation and Cognitive Function in Later Life: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Alzheimers Dis. 2019;70(s1):S119-S144. doi:10.3233/JAD-180501
Zaninotto, Paola & Wardle, Jane & Steptoe, Andrew. (2016). Sustained enjoyment of life and mortality at older ages: Analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. BMJ. 355. 10.1136/bmj.i6267.
Perini G, Cotta Ramusino M, Sinforiani E, Bernini S, Petrachi R, Costa A. Cognitive impairment in depression: recent advances and novel treatments. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2019;15:1249-1258. Published 2019 May 10. doi:10.2147/NDT.S199746
Hayat SA, Luben R, Dalzell N, et al. Understanding the relationship between cognition and death: a within cohort examination of cognitive measures and mortality. Eur J Epidemiol. 2018;33(11):1049-1062. doi:10.1007/s10654-018-0439-z
Trabidou G, Florou H. Estimation of dose rates to humans exposed to elevated natural radioactivity through different pathways in the island of Ikaria, Greece. Radiat Prot Dosimetry. 2010;142(2-4):378-384. doi:10.1093/rpd/ncq269
Gawełek E, Drozdzowska B, Fuchs A. Radon as a risk factor of lung cancer. Przegl Epidemiol. 2017;71(1):90-98.
Maier A, Wiedemann J, Rapp F, et al. Radon Exposure-Therapeutic Effect and Cancer Risk. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;22(1):316. Published 2020 Dec 30. doi:10.3390/ijms22010316
Yaghoobi R, Kazerouni A, Kazerouni O. Evidence for Clinical Use of Honey in Wound Healing as an Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory Anti-oxidant and Anti-viral Agent: A Review. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod. 2013;8(3):100-104. doi:10.17795/jjnpp-9487
Ajibola, Abdulwahid. (2015). Novel Insights into the Health Importance of Natural Honey. Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences. 22. 7-22.
Saravana Kumar Jaganathan, mahitosh Mandal, “Antiproliferative Effects of Honey and of its Polyphenols: A Review”, BioMed Research International, vol. 2009, Article ID 830616, 13 pages, 2009. Doi.org/10.1155/2009/830616
Nor Hayati Othman, “Honey and Cancer: Sustainable Inverse Relationship Particularly for Developing Nations – A Review”, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative medicine, vol. 2012, Article ID 410406, 10 pages, 2012. Doi.org/10.1155/2012/410406
Fukuda M, Kobayashi K, Hirono Y, et al. Jungle honey enhances immune function and antitumor activity. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011:908743. doi:10.1093/ecam/nen086
Vouillamoz JF, Carlen C, Taglialatela-Scafati O, Pollastro F, Appendino G. The génépi Artemisia species. Ethnopharmacology, cultivation, phytochemistry, and bioactivity. Fitoterapia. 2015;106:231-241. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2015.09.007
Jin YR, Jin J, Piao XX, Jin NG. The effect of Taraxacum officinale on gastric emptying and smooth muscle motility in Rodents. Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2011;23(8):766-e333. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2982.2011.01704.x
Jia YY, Guan RF, Wu YH, et al. Taraxacum mongolicum extract exhibits a protective effect on hepatocytes and an antiviral effect against hepatitis B virus in animal and human cells. Mol Med Rep. 2014;9(4):1381-1387. doi:10.3892/mmr.2014.1925
Rehman G, Hamayun M, Iqbal A, et al. Effect of Methanolic Extract of Dandelion Roots on Cancer Cell Lines and AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:875. Published 2017 Nov 28. doi:10.3389/fphar.2017.00875
Trendafilova A, Moujir LM, Sousa PMC, Seca AML. Research Advances on Health Effects of Edible Artemisia Species and Some Sesquiterpene Lactones Constituents. Foods. 2020;10(1):65. Published 2020 Dec 30. doi:10.3390/foods10010065
Azevedo MF, Lima CF, Fernandes-Ferreira M, Almeida MJ, Wilson JM, Pereira-Wilson C. Rosmarinic acid, major phenolic constituent of Greek sage herbal tea, modulates rat intestinal SGLT1 levels with effects on blood glucose. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2011;55 Suppl 1:S15-S25. doi:10.1002/mnfr.201000472
Aires A, Marrinhas E, Carvalho R, Dias C, Saavedra MJ. Phytochemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Pterospartum tridentatum and Mentha pulegium against Staphylococcus aureus Isolates. Biomed Res Int. 2016;2016:5201879. doi:10.1155/2016/5201879
Mishra S. Diuretics in primary hypertension - Reloaded. Indian Heart J. 2016;68(5):720-723. doi:10.1016/j.ihj.2016.08.013

6 days ago
6 days ago
Hey Mamas,
Today we are continuing the interview from part 1 with Elizabeth Taylor-McClure. We talk about how past trauma affects our physical health and ways that we can stop the cycle and achieve our best health.
You'll learn powerful strategies to help you to process trauma and tools to help your kids do the same.
This information could save you so much time and energy searching for answers to physical problems that actually have a root in your emotions. Find a quiet place to listen and your pen and paper to take notes and prepare to be inspired!
—-------
Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Save your seat for the Own Your Health workshop: www.heatherbedard.com/ownyourhealth
---------
Connect with Elizabeth:
Email: wavesofchange13@gmail.com
Website: www.wavesofchangeSTL.com
Instagram: @Counselingwavesofchange
—-------
Want to work with me?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
----------
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik

Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Hey Mamas,
This episode with special guest Elizabeth Taylor-McClure is filled with information you can't afford to miss! We talk about how past trauma affects our physical health and ways that we can stop the cycle and achieve our best health.
You'll learn powerful strategies to help you to process trauma and tools to help your kids do the same.
This information could save you so much time and energy searching for answers to physical problems that actually have a root in your emotions. Find a quiet place to listen and your pen and paper to take notes and prepare to be inspired!
—-------
Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Save your seat for the Own Your Health workshop: www.heatherbedard.com/ownyourhealth
---------
Connect with Elizabeth:
Email: wavesofchange13@gmail.com
Website: www.wavesofchangeSTL.com
Instagram: @Counselingwavesofchange
—-------
Want to work with me?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
----------
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Hey there, friends!
In today’s episode, we’re talking about how to spot the difference between health numbers that look good on paper and something that actually helps in real life. I’m diving into why health outcomes matter way more than those flashy numbers on your lab report so you don’t have to be afraid of every little change.
We’ll also have a little fun calling out the wild world of self-reported data, and I’ll share my personal pet peeve about poor quality studies in both the mainstream and alternative health categories.
Plus, I’m digging into how changing the definition of a diagnosis can suddenly make a whole lot of healthy people “sick,” and why that’s something to watch out for. And of course, we’re talking about the importance of the long game.
Grab your favorite drink and settle in — this one’s a mix of myth-busting, detective work, and learning how to ask better questions about your health. Let’s go!
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Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Save your seat for the FREE live, online Own Your Health Workshop
—-------
Want to work together?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik

Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Hey Mama, and welcome back! Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the flu vaccine — specifically, how well it actually works. No hype, no fear-mongering — just the data speaking for itself.
We’re going to look at what "effectiveness" really means according to our health agencies, some eyebrow-raising findings from studies over the decades, and the role of industry-funded research. From the early days of flu shots in the 1940s to more recent reviews questioning their impact, there’s a lot to unpack.
I’m not here to convince you of anything — just to encourage you to ask good questions. Take what you learn, dig deeper, and stay curious.
Oh, and if you’re wondering about safety and side effects… that’s a conversation for another episode. Stay tuned!
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Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Want to work together?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
-----------
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik
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Sources:
https://www.who.int/initiatives/global-influenza-surveillance-and-response-system
Low in elderly - Goodwin K, Viboud C, Simonsen L. Antibody response to influenza vaccination in the elderly: a quantitative review. Vaccine. 2006;24(8):1159-1169. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2005.08.105
Low from 6-35 months - Luo SY, Zhu JL, Lyu MZ, et al. Zhonghua Yu Fang Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2019;53(6):576-580. doi:10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-9624.2019.06.007
Eric A. Biondi, MD, MS; C. Andrew Aligne, MD, MPH “Flu Vaccine for All: A Critical Look at the Evidence.” Medscape December 21, 2015
Brownlee S, Lenzer J. Does the vaccine matter? The Atlantic. November 2009. http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200911/brownlee-h1n1
Jefferson T, Rivetti A, Di Pietrantonj C, Demicheli V, Ferroni E. “Vaccines for preventing influenza in healthy children.” Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;8:CD004879. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004879.pub4/abstract
Jefferson T, Di Pietrantonj C, Rivetti A, Bawazeer GA, Al-Ansary LA, Ferroni E. “Vaccines to prevent influenza in healthy adults”. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;3:CD001269.

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Hey Mama!
I still laugh when I think about my pregnancy cravings — some things were delicious, and others, well… let’s just say my rotisserie chicken story makes me laugh to this day!
But let’s be real — sometimes it’s hard enough to just eat when you’re expecting, let alone think about what’s best for you and your baby.
In this episode, we’re breaking down what optimal nutrition looks like during pregnancy so that you can think about this ahead of time. What should you focus on? What should you avoid? And did you know that what your mom ate while pregnant with you could impact your health today? Yep, it’s wild!
We’ll talk about the hidden risks of certain foods, why some so-called “healthy” options might not be as great as they seem, and what you can do to fuel yourself (and your growing little one) the right way.
If you are already pregnant, maybe this information will give you some things to think about when you are feeling more like eating.
So, whether you're currently pregnant, planning for the future, or just curious about the impact of food on health, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive in!
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Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Sources:
De Assis S, Warri M, Cruz I et al. “High-fat ethinyl-oestradiol intake during pregnancy increases mammary breast cancer risk in several generations of offspring.” Nature Communications vol 3 article 1053doiL10.1038/ncomms2058
Maslova E, Halldorsson, T.I., Strom M, Olsen S.F. “Low-fat yogurt intake in pregnancy associated with increased risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis risk; A prospective cohort study.” Presented at an ERS Congress Poster, September 25, 2011
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Want to work together?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
----------
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik

Thursday Mar 27, 2025
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
Hi Mamas!
Let’s talk about something we all care about—our skin! The beauty industry makes billions selling us products, but finding ones that are both effective and natural can be a challenge. That’s why so many people turn to collagen supplements, hoping for better hair, skin, and nails.
Today we are going to find out if those supplements are actually worth our money and the best way to support your skin health. You may be surprised at what you find! Let’s jump in!
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Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Want to work together?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Hi Mamas,
Get ready for an inspiring and heart-centered conversation with Sarah Joy, an emotional health coach and the founder of House of Belonging.
In this episode, we dive deep into her personal journey of navigating the medical system as a mom of a special needs child. Sarah shares the raw and emotional moments of receiving unexpected news about her son’s health, how she learned to advocate for him, and the challenges she faced in balancing medical advice with her own research and intuition.
We talk about the power of asking questions, standing firm when you feel unheard, and assembling the right care team for your child. If you’ve ever felt dismissed in a doctor’s office or overwhelmed by medical decisions, this episode will give you the confidence to step into your role as the ultimate advocate for your child.
So grab a notebook, maybe some tissues, and let’s dive in!
—-------
Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—--------
Connect with Sarah Joy!
A Simple Guide To Renewing The Mind (freebie)
Email - houseofbelongingcontact@gmail.com
Instagram - @houseofbelonging
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558131234204
Website - https://houseofbelongingministries.com/home
Join The Private FB Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/410013668465825
Apply To Work With Sarah Joy
—-------
Want to work with me?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherbhealth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bedard-a427a8271/
Like the music? Check out https://torvikmusic.carrd.co/#
Photo Cred: @derricktorvik

Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Hey Mama,
If you’ve ever had the flu, you know it’s no joke—the fever, the chills, the total wipeout. And while none of us are eager for a repeat experience, the flu isn’t going anywhere. That’s why flu vaccines are such a hot topic, recommended for just about everyone six months and older. But how did we even get here?
In this episode, we’re taking a fascinating deep dive into the history of the flu vaccine — because understanding where something started can give us better insight into where we stand today.
We’ll go all the way back to the 1918 pandemic, explore how the first flu vaccines were developed (including some truly eyebrow-raising testing methods), and uncover key moments that shaped the flu shot as we know it.
From military experiments to major public health campaigns — some successful, some… not so much — we’ll break down the twists and turns of flu vaccine history and what it means for us now. Plus, we’ll talk about where flu prevention is headed, including new technologies and alternative approaches to staying healthy.
Whether you’re pro-shot, vaccine-curious, or just pro-research, this episode is packed with insight, stories, and a few surprises. Let’s get into it!
—-------
Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.
—-------
Sources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/spotlight/history-of-vaccination/history-of-influenza-vaccination
Lasky T, Terracciano G, Magder L, et al. “The Guillain-Barré syndrome and the 1992-1993 and 1993-1994 influenza vaccines.” NEJM 1998;339(25):1797-802.
Schonberger L, Bregman D, Sullivan-Bolyai J, et al. “Guillain-Barre syndrome following vaccination in the National Influenza Immunization Program, United States, 1976–1977.” Am J Epidemiol 1979; 110(5):105–23.
Geier M, Geier D, Zahalsky A. “Influenza vaccination and Guillain Barre syndrome small star, filled.” Clin Immunol 2003;107(2):116-21.
Eric A. Biondi, MD, MS; C. Andrew Aligne, MD, MPH “Flu Vaccine for All: A Critical Look at the Evidence.” Medscape December 21, 2015
Brownlee S, Lenzer J. Does the vaccine matter? The Atlantic. November 2009. http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200911/brownlee-h1n1
Jefferson T, Rivetti A, Di Pietrantonj C, Demicheli V, Ferroni E. “Vaccines for preventing influenza in healthy children.” Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;8:CD004879. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004879.pub4/abstract
Jefferson T, Di Pietrantonj C, Rivetti A, Bawazeer GA, Al-Ansary LA, Ferroni E. “Vaccines to prevent influenza in healthy adults”. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;3:CD001269. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD001269.pub5/abstract;jsessionid=96780A7CC76A9AF58372894444AE3F04.f02t03
—-------
Want to work together?
Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call
Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions
Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!
Let’s Connect!
Join my private Facebook group community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CThh17seZ/
Become a HHSM Insider! https://www.heatherbedard.com/hhsminsider
Follow me on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbedard/
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Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Hi Mama!
Pregnancy comes with enough surprises — do we really need the endless (and sometimes conflicting) food rules on top of it?
No lunch meat, no Caesar salad, eat for two… or maybe don’t? Instead of stressing over every little rule, let’s take a step back and focus on what really matters when it comes to nourishing both you and your baby.
What you eat before and during pregnancy has a bigger impact than you might think—right down to your baby’s genes!
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t perfection — it’s nourishment. Instead of obsessing over what not to eat, focus on adding in more whole, nutrient-dense foods.
Whether you’re planning for pregnancy or already expecting, small changes can make a big difference. Your body is resilient, your baby is adaptable, and it’s never too late to start making choices that support both of you!
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Sources:[1] Gray, N. “Maternal diet before conception may affect baby’s DNA expression.” FoodNavigator.com. June 11, 2015. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Science/Maternal-diet-before-conception-may-affect-baby-s-DNA-expression Accessed June 11, 2015.
[2] Silver MJ, Kessler NJ, Hennig BJ, Dominguez-Salas P, Laritsky E, Baker MS, Coarfa C, Hernandez-Vargas H, Castelino JM, Routledge MN, Gong YY, Herceg Z, Lee YS, Lee K, Moore SE, Fulford AJ, Prentice AM, Waterland RA. “Independent genome wide screens identify the tumor suppressor VTRNA2-1 as a human epiallele responsive to periconceptional environment.” Genome Biol Jun 2015;16(1):118.
[3] Wartmen, Kristin. “Bad Eating Habits Start in the Womb.” New York Times. December 1, 2013.
[4] Braniste et al., “The gut microbiota influences blood-brain barrier permeability in mice,” Science Translational Medicine, 6:263ra158, 2014.
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