The Pregnant Mother Runner Podcast

This week, the belly officially popped and I am feeling very pregnant in the cutest way. Running and workouts are still feeling good and comfortable, but I am definitely slowing down, which is a very normal part of training through pregnancy. I’m also talking about sugar cravings this week, not from nausea or food aversions this time, but from that very real “I could eat dessert for every meal” kind of vibe. And for pregnant athletes, cravings can sometimes be a helpful cue that we may not be eating enough overall. If you’re running, lifting, growing a human, and trying to get through your day, your energy needs are not exactly giving “light snack and vibes.” In this episode, I’m sharing why meal planning and prepping can be such a helpful tool for pregnant runners, especially when your appetite, schedule, and energy are all changing. We’ll talk about how to make sure you’re getting enough calories, carbs, protein, and nutrient-dense foods without making eating feel like another full-time job. I also went to pelvic floor physical therapy this week, so I’m sharing what we talked about, what I’m paying attention to, and why pelvic floor support can be such a game changer for pregnant athletes.   Tired of your clothes not fitting during prengancy? Try renting clothes from Nuuly, click here to get $30 off! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

 In this combined pregnancy update for weeks 16–18, I’m sharing a much heavier season of life. My dad was placed on hospice and passed away during these weeks, and navigating grief while pregnant felt surreal and overwhelming. I talk honestly about what it looked like to simply survive during this time, letting exercise go for a while, and how emotional stress can change your relationship with movement and self care. I also share how it felt returning to exercise after time away, the physical symptoms that started popping up this pregnancy that I didn’t experience with my first, including back pain, pelvic floor heaviness, and lightning crotch (WHY does no one prepare us for that name?!). And in the middle of all the heartbreak, there were still beautiful moments too, like seeing baby kick from the outside for the first time. This episode is raw, vulnerable, and a reminder that pregnancy doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Life keeps life-ing, and sometimes the goal is simply getting through the day with compassion for yourself.   Want to try Go Guarded? Use my code serena10 at checkout! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

This week officially felt like a turning point. I’m just loving how amazing it feels AMAZING to enjoy food again and actually feel hungry. I share what’s been different physically this week, including why I think I may have started feeling baby kicks for the first time. I also open up about something heavier going on behind the scenes. My dad has been sick, and balancing pregnancy, motherhood, work, and family stress has made self care feel really hard lately. We talk about what it looks like to try your best during seasons where life feels emotionally overwhelming. And yes… we’re also talking boobs. 😂 I share how drastically my chest changed during my first pregnancy, why I switched to nursing bras while still pregnant, and the sports bra that actually worked for running after trying what felt like 7 million options. If you’re pregnant and navigating the weird mix of excitement, exhaustion, body changes, gratitude, and stress all at once… this episode will probably make you feel a little less alone.   If you are pregnant and trying to figure out how you can keep strength training safely while protecting your core and pelvic floor, check out the ANDA App. You can get a 7 day free trial and 20% off with my code SERENA Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Week 14 and things are finally shifting. After weeks of nausea, food aversions, and just trying to get through the day, I’m officially feeling hungry (LIKE SO HUNGRY!) again… and honestly? It feels amazing. In this episode, I’m sharing what changed this week as I move into the second trimester, including: Why your appetite can suddenly spike (and why that’s a good sign) The foods I’m craving right now (hello veggies + meat) Feeling like myself again after a tough first trimester My plan to continue lifting heavy through pregnancy (and how I’m approaching it safely) I also open up about something that doesn’t get talked about enough: getting weighed at doctor’s appointments. During my first pregnancy, I chose not to see my weight because I knew it could negatively impact my mental health. In this episode, I break down: Why weight at appointments can be triggering for some women Your options (including blind weights or declining altogether) How to advocate for yourself in medical settings Because you deserve to feel informed, respected, and in control of your body throughout pregnancy.   Click here to try Legion Protein Powder for yourself use my code RUNNERGIRL for buy one get one 50% off and free shipping on your first order! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Week 13 and officially in the second trimester… but honestly? It’s giving first trimester energy 😅 In this episode, I’m sharing the real behind-the-scenes of this week: navigating more reflux (earlier than last pregnancy), waves of nausea and food aversions that finally eased up, and that craving for the elusive “second trimester bliss.” On the bright side, I ran a half marathon this week (!!) and felt strong, fueled, and proud. I’m walking you through how I approached carb loading during pregnancy, how the race actually felt in my body, and what signs I pay attention to when deciding if my training is supportive… or too much. I also dive into a question I know so many active moms are wondering: 👉 How do you know if you’re overdoing it with running or movement during pregnancy? Plus, some lifestyle updates including reducing plastic use at home and what I’m using on my growing belly to support skin hydration. If you’re pregnant and active (or want to be), this episode will help you feel more confident trusting your body while still chasing your goals.   Want to try Go Guarded? Use my code serena10 at checkout! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

In this episode of The Pregnant Mother Runner Diaries, I’m sharing what it actually felt like to close out the first trimester while training and growing a human. This week was a mix of: Feeling a tiny bit more human Getting back to my new “normal” mileage Still navigating lingering food aversions Random symptoms like morning headaches and shortness of breath And of course… one final surprise wave of nausea right at the finish line of the first trimester 🙃 I also opened up about preparing for my upcoming half marathon while pregnant and how I’m thinking about effort, expectations, and listening to my body. OH, and we’re talking doulas. I share why I had a doula in my first pregnancy, why I 100% plan to have one again, and the exact questions I’m asking while interviewing doulas this time around so I feel supported, informed, and empowered going into birth. If you’re pregnant, postpartum, or just curious what it looks like to balance running and pregnancy in real life… this one’s for you.   If you are pregnant and trying to figure out how you can keep strength training safely while protecting your core and pelvic floor, check out the ANDA App. You can get a 7 day free trial and 20% off with my code SERENA Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Week 11 of pregnancy is… confusing. One minute I feel strong, capable, and like myself again. The next? I’m nauseous, exhausted, and questioning everything. In this episode, I’m sharing a real-time update on what it feels like to be training through early pregnancy as a runner. I hit my highest mileage week, lifted three times, and even completed a practice half marathon… but the physical and mental rollercoaster is very real. We’re talking about: The unpredictability of first trimester symptoms What it actually feels like to train hard while pregnant Why I was completely wiped after my long run The awkward “in-between” body phase no one prepares you for Body image struggles when you don’t quite “look pregnant” yet How I’m actively working on shifting my self-talk and mindset If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your body during a season of change… this one is for you. If you are pregnant and trying to figure out how you can keep strength training safely while protecting your core and pelvic floor, check out the ANDA App. You can get a 7 day free trial and 20% off with my code SERENA Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Week 10 of pregnancy has been a mix of feeling really good… and then suddenly not so good again. Some days my energy is back, my appetite returns, and I feel like myself again. Other days I’m dealing with nausea, food aversions, and struggling to eat enough. In this week’s update, I’m sharing what it actually looks like to navigate the ups and downs of early pregnancy while still trying to fuel well as a runner and a mom. I talk about the emotional side of this pregnancy, including feeling nervous about adding a second baby, crying more easily, and having a shorter fuse than usual. Hormones are doing their thing. I’m also diving into the very real challenge of trying to eat frequently to prevent nausea while also dealing with food aversions, plus the strategy I’m using right now: making my protein feel more like dessert since carbs are what I’m craving most. And because pregnancy hormones are clearly thriving right now… we’re talking about hormonal acne. I explain why acne often flares during pregnancy and some nutrition strategies that support liver detox pathways, hydration, and hormone metabolism. Inside this episode: • The reality of good days and bad days in early pregnancy • Food aversions vs trying to eat frequently for nausea • Why I’m turning protein into dessert right now • Emotional shifts and anxiety about adding baby #2 • Hormonal acne during pregnancy and what may help nutritionally • Supporting liver detox pathways through food and hydration If you’re pregnant, postpartum, or just curious what fueling during pregnancy actually looks like in real life, this episode is for you.   Want to try Go Guarded? Use my code serena10 at checkout! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Week 9 felt… different. In a good way. After getting absolutely humbled by Week 8 exhaustion, I’m finally feeling a little more like myself. The nausea has backed off, the bone-deep fatigue isn’t as intense, and I was able to get in a long run without feeling completely wiped out after. Huge win. In this episode I’m sharing: What shifted physically from Week 8 to Week 9 How my runs and strength workouts are feeling right now Why that post–long run exhaustion finally eased up The supplements I’m prioritizing during pregnancy (and why) The not-so-glamorous update: sleep is still… not great We’ll talk about the reality of fluctuating symptoms, how I’m adjusting expectations week to week, and what I’m focusing on nutritionally to support both baby and performance. Because pregnancy training isn’t about chasing fitness. It’s about supporting physiology   Want to try Lagoon Pillows? Take their sleep quiz here. Use code serenamarierd to get 15% off your pillow! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Week 8 kicked. my. butt. The exhaustion hit in a way that made workouts feel optional… and sleep feel non-negotiable. I skipped almost every planned session this week, and that would have spiraled me in my first pregnancy. In this episode, I’m sharing: What this level of first-trimester fatigue actually feels like Why honoring your body > forcing fitness The mindset shift between my first pregnancy and this one How I’m approaching movement right now   Starting the process of interviewing birth doulas and finding support that aligns with your values Practical nutrition strategies for when you’re too tired to function We’re also talking about real-life fueling when you’re exhausted: Grocery delivery as a survival tool Stocking up on foods you can actually tolerate Giving yourself full permission to lean on takeout and frozen meals Because this season is about adaptation. If you’re a pregnant runner navigating fatigue, identity shifts, and changing expectations, this one will feel like a deep exhale.   Jacked Granny Protein Bars have around 16 grams of protein, the perfect post-run snack or mid-afternoon fuel — go check out jacked-granny.com and use code RUNNERGIRL to save 10%. If you have questions about this episode, DM on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Week 7 is officially here… and I feel pregnant now. In this episode, I’m sharing what’s shifted physically, emotionally, and in my training this week. From nausea and food aversions to sore boobs while breastfeeding my 14-month-old, things are definitely changing. We’re talking about: Why breastfeeding has suddenly become uncomfortable The nerve-y hip sensations + abdominal pressure Snacking constantly to manage nausea Body image this pregnancy vs. last time Why I decided to stop working with my running coach How running and lifting are still feeling (surprisingly!) good The fatigue that’s creeping in There’s something powerful about recognizing when your body needs a shift and trusting yourself enough to make it. If you’re navigating pregnancy as an athlete, this one will feel like sitting on the couch with a friend who also packed snacks. Here is the BOB Stroller I talked about in this episode!   Want to try Go Guarded? Use my code serena10 at checkout! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian  

Week 6 of pregnancy was a LOT. I ran a half marathon, started proactively snacking on carbs to keep nausea at bay, and officially entered the era of peeing nonstop and feeling… kind of icky in my belly. In this episode, I’m sharing what running felt like this week, why I’m committing to fueling during runs (even the short ones!) for the rest of pregnancy, and how early pregnancy hormones can mess with your mood before food aversions even show up. We’re talking: Why carbs are clutch for nausea prevention in early pregnancy What abdominal pressure and that “off” belly feeling can mean (and when it’s normal) Emotional swings, anger, and the mental side of early pregnancy training How I’m thinking about fueling differently as a pregnant runner This is not medical advice. It’s one runner, one body, one very real week of pregnancy. If you’re running pregnant, thinking about it, or just want to feel less alone in the weirdness… you’re in the right place.   Want to try Lagoon Pillows? Take their sleep quiz here. Use code serenamarierd to get 15% off your pillow! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @runnergirldietitian

Welcome to episode one (Week 5 of pregnancy!) of The Pregnant Mother Runner Diaries and plot twist… I’m pregnant. In this episode I’m sharing the very real, very fresh feelings of finding out. And, yes, I took approximately 47 pregnancy tests 😂…Obviously. We talk about: Exercising safely in early pregnancy and what the research actually says The weird tingliness in my low back and hips Headaches and thirst and “is this pregnancy or just life?” Not showing at all and not really having symptoms yet The complicated mix of excitement about a baby and disappointment about potentially losing fitness Training still feeling strong Nursing my 13 month old while newly pregnant We’ll cover what current guidelines say about exercise during uncomplicated pregnancies and how I’m approaching training with curiosity instead of fear. As always, this is my personal experience as a runner and registered dietitian. It is not medical advice. And if you want deeper dives into fueling, body image, and metabolism for runners, come hang out with me on Dear Runner Bod.   Jacked Granny Protein Bars have around 16 grams of protein, the perfect post-run snack or mid-afternoon fuel — go check out jacked-granny.com and use code RUNNERGIRL to save 10%. If you have questions about this episode, DM on Instagram @runnergirldietitian