The Science of Motherhood

• Ep 191. PCOS and Epigenetics: Could This Be the Missing Puzzle Piece?

  Living with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can feel overwhelming. Irregular cycles, difficulty conceiving, weight changes and the constant frustration of not having clear answers are a reality for up to one in ten women worldwide. For years, researchers have known PCOS runs in families, but the genetic explanation has never quite fit. Until now.In this episode Dr Renee White explores groundbreaking PCOS research from China that could transform how we understand PCOS inheritance. The study suggests it may not just be our DNA, but epigenetics, the chemical tags that sit on top of our genes and influence how they are expressed, that play a role in how PCOS is passed from mother to daughter.This early research could be the missing piece in explaining why PCOS is so common in families and what it may mean for prevention, fertility treatment and long-term health.You’ll hear about:How PCOS is currently diagnosed and why genetics alone do not explain the conditionWhat epigenetics means and how it may influence PCOS inheritanceKey findings from a study of eggs and embryos in women with PCOSWhy this new PCOS research is exciting but still very preliminaryWhat this could mean for future fertility treatment, risk assessment and support for women living with PCOSScience is always evolving. While there is no cure for PCOS yet, research like this brings us closer to better answers, better care and more hope for women navigating this condition.Resources and Links:📲 Connect with Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_🌐 Learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services🍪 Treat yourself with our Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies🎧 If this episode gave you clarity or comfort, share it with a friend who might need it too. And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe so you never miss an episode.Disclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.Nothing contained in this episode is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.

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• Ep 190. The Gut–Brain Connection Every Mum Should Know About

  Your gut and your brain talk more than you realise and it could shape your postpartum mental health.Postpartum can be both beautiful and overwhelming. While many mums expect sleepless nights and endless nappies, few are prepared for how much their mental health can be affected. Research is now showing that what we eat plays a role in how we feel, and that’s where today’s conversation begins.In this episode Dr Renee White speaks with Meghan Hockey, an Accredited Practising Dietitian and mum of two, who specialises in the link between nutrition and mental health. Meghan completed her PhD in Nutritional Psychiatry with Deakin University’s Food & Mood Centre and has published over 20 peer-reviewed papers in the field. Through her online clinic, she helps people manage anxiety, low mood, postpartum depression and gut health concerns with practical, evidence-based strategies.You’ll hear aboutHow the gut–brain connection influences postpartum depressionWhat the science currently tells us about nutrition and mental healthKey foods that may help support mood and recoverySimple, realistic ways to nourish yourself as a new mumWhy small, sustainable changes are more effective than aiming for perfectionThis episode is a reminder that nutrition isn’t about strict rules or diets, but one tool that can support your mental health alongside sleep, support and medical care.Resources and Links:📲 Connect with Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_🌐 Learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services🍪 Treat yourself with our Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies📲 Want to connect with Meghan?Follow on Instagram: @meghockeydietitianOr visit her website and learn more about her services and book a 1:1 telehealth consultation: www.meghanhockeydietitian.comIf you found this conversation helpful, share it with another mum who might need it. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Disclaimer: The information on this website presented by Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.Nothing contained in this site is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.

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• Ep 189. What Every Mum Should Know About Creatine, Hormones, and Recovery

  Motherhood takes it out of you. Physically. Mentally. Emotionally. And if you’ve ever felt like your energy’s been zapped or your brain’s running on 1%, you’re not imagining it and you’re definitely not alone.In this episode, Dr Renee White takes you on a deep dive into a surprising topic: creatine supplementation for women’s health. That little white powder you’ve seen on gym shelves? It turns out, it might hold more benefits for mums than we ever realised.From brain fog and bloating to sleep, strength and recovery, Renee unpacks the latest research on how this naturally occurring compound can support women through every life stage. With her signature mix of science and soul, she breaks it down in a way that’s easy to understand and incredibly relevant for busy, brilliant mums like you.You’ll hear about:🩷 What creatine actually does – and why it matters beyond the gym floor🩷 How it supports hormones, memory, and mood – especially during hormonal shifts🩷 The creatine gap in women – and what the latest studies are now revealing🩷 Pregnancy, postpartum and creatine needs – including early research on birth outcomes🩷 Tips for safe supplementation – plus what to look for on the labelWhether you’re navigating fatigue, prepping for pregnancy or simply want to feel stronger and more clear-headed, this episode is full of science-backed insights, practical tips and plenty of reassurance.Resources and Links:📲 Connect with Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_🌐 Learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services🍪 Treat yourself with our Chocolate + Goji lactation cookiesBibliography:Foundational Creatine Research - Harris, R.C., Söderlund, K., & Hultman, E. (1992). Elevation of creatine in resting and exercised muscle of normal subjects by creatine supplementation. Clinical Science, 83(3), 367-374. ◦ DOI: 10.1042/cs0830367 ◦ Classic study establishing the loading protocol (20g/day for 5-7 days)Women's Health & Creatine Intake - Ostojic, S.M., Stea, T.H., Ellery, S.J., et al. (2024). Association between dietary intake of creatine and female reproductive health: evidence from NHANES 2017–2020. Food Science & Nutrition, 12(7), 4893-4898. ◦ DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.4135 ◦ URL: https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.4135 ◦ Study of 10,000+ women showing inadequate creatine intake linked to reproductive health issuesMenstrual Cycle & Fluid Balance - 1. Moore, S.R., Gordon, A.N., Cabre, H.E., et al. (2023). A randomized controlled trial of changes in fluid distribution across menstrual phases with creatine supplementation. Nutrients, 15(2), 429. ◦ DOI: 10.3390/nu15020429 ◦ URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15020429 ◦ Breakthrough study on creatine's effects on cellular hydration during menstrual cycle2. Gordon, A.N., Moore, S.R., Patterson, N.D., et al. (2023). The effects of creatine monohydrate loading on exercise recovery in active women throughout the menstrual cycle. Nutrients, 15(16), 3567. ◦ DOI: 10.3390/nu15163567 ◦ URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15163567 ◦ First study to account for menstrual cycle phases in creatine supplementation researchSleep & Performance - 1. Aguiar Bonfim...

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• Ep 188. How to Manage Screen Time and Protect Your Child’s Mental Health

  Screens are part of everyday life, but knowing how to manage them while protecting our kids’ mental health can feel like a constant challenge.In this episode, Dr Renee White sits down with Professor Selena Bartlett, a neuroscientist, author, and mum who’s dedicated her career to making brain science practical for everyday families. Drawing on decades of research into neuroplasticity, stress, and mental health, Selena shares actionable tools to help parents manage screen time, nurture resilience, strengthen connection, and safeguard their children’s mental wellbeing in the digital age.Whether you’re introducing your child’s first device, battling constant requests for more screen time, or simply wanting to foster a calmer, more connected home, this conversation is packed with useful, doable advice.You’ll hear about:How neuroplasticity can help you and your child build resiliencePractical tips for setting and keeping screen time boundariesThe impact of technology on kids’ mental healthHow to reduce stress and boost connection as a familyEveryday changes to support your child’s wellbeingIt’s not about avoiding technology altogether, but about using it mindfully to protect what matters most.Resources and Links📲 Connect with Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_🌐 Learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services🍪 Treat yourself with our Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies🌿 Connect with Professor Selena Bartlett:Website: profselenabartlett.com | Instagram: @prof_selena_bartlett🎧 Listen to Selena’s podcast Thriving Minds and explore her work at womenrise.com.auIf this episode gives you fresh ideas for tackling screen time and protecting your child’s mental health, share it with another mum who could use the same support. And don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Science of Motherhood.Disclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by the Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.Nothing contained in this podcast is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.

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• Ep 187. How to Tackle Picky Eating and Get Kids Excited in the Kitchen

  Motherhood is a constant dance between caring for our little people, managing work, and trying to carve out moments for ourselves. Some days it feels like a juggling act, other days more like a seesaw, tipping one way or the other. And when it comes to feeding our families, the pressure can feel even bigger, especially if you’ve got a picky eater or two at the table.In this episode, Dr Renee White chats with Sarah Pound, a nutritionist, food columnist, and mum of three who’s built a thriving online community through Wholesome by Sarah. With a passion for making healthy food simple, joyful, and achievable, Sarah shares practical tips for finding balance in motherhood, getting kids involved in the kitchen, and creating mealtimes that feel less stressful and more connected.Whether you’re navigating fussy eating, trying to simplify weeknight dinners, or just looking for ways to make cooking a shared family experience, Sarah’s advice will leave you feeling inspired and supported.You’ll hear about:How to find your balance in the daily juggle of work and motherhoodSimple ways to get kids excited about helping in the kitchenPractical strategies for handling picky eaters without mealtime battlesWhy food can be a powerful way to connect as a familyHow to let go of the pressure and find more joy in feeding your familyIt’s not about perfect plates or perfectly behaved eaters, it’s about building confidence, connection, and joy in the everyday moments.Resources and Links📲 Connect with Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_🌐 Learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services🍪 Treat yourself with our Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies🌿 Follow Sarah Pound: @wholesomebysarah📖 Explore Sarah’s recipes and books: Wholesome by Sarah📚 Sarah’s new cookbook, Family Food, is now available from your favourite bookstore or online retailer.If this episode leaves you feeling inspired to bring more joy and connection to your mealtimes, share it with another mum who’s navigating the same juggle. Together, we can make the kitchen a place of fun, not frustration.

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