Solo Q&A: My Essential Supplements, Gym Anxiety & Shopping Addiction

Mari Cleared Cystic Acne By Treating Her H. Pylori Gut Bacteria Shared With Her Husband

Mari has overcome a challenge with cystic acne by addressing an underlying health issue that she shared with her husband, Greg. Unbeknownst to both of them, they had been passing the gut bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) back and forth. Mari's successful treatment involved a course of antibiotics followed by a regimen to rebuild her gut health.

Mari's Acne-Free After IVF Hormones, Thanks to Her Gut Treatment and Skincare Routine

Despite undergoing various hormonal treatments as part of her IVF therapy, Mari’s cystic acne has not returned, although she has experienced a few minor zits. To combat acne scarring, Mari is using procedures like microneedling, facials, and chemical peels. She's chosen skincare products specifically designed not to disrupt hormones or clog pores, such as Clear Stem Skincare and products from the Clean Skin Club that cater to sensitive skin.

Mari's 4-Month IVF Journey

Mari embarked on her IVF journey in early December, leading to a series of steps: starting injections just after Christmas, progress to egg retrieval, embryo creation, and genetic testing. The IVF process up until that point encompassed about three months, and she was approximately a month away from the embryo transfer.

Mari to Reduce Caffeine Before IVF Transfer

In preparation for the upcoming embryo transfer, Mari is taking various medications such as ...

Mari shares insights into her protein-rich diet routine and the brands that she trusts for healthy, quality alternatives.

Mari's Diet: Protein-Rich Meals With Eggs, Yogurt, Rice Bowls, Tacos, Bone Broth, Pomegranate Juice, and Occasional Desserts

Mari's diet consists of nutritious meals focused on protein and she treats herself with desserts like lemon bars or dark chocolate. Her sustainable lifestyle is evident, as she eats two to three eggs a day from her own chicken coop, a choice informed by bird flu's effect on egg prices. Mari used to believe eggs caused her acne, but no longer holds that belief.

She starts her day with a jug of water with electrolytes, colostrum, creatine, and ice, followed by black hot Americano coffee and a yogurt granola bowl (sans honey). Lunch might include a duo of eggs with sourdough bread or a protein-rich rice bowl with beef, chicken, or salmon, and a side of salad. Dinner options are also protein-focused, with meals like tacos, steak, or quiche.

Further adding to her nutritional intake, Mari drinks pomegranate juice daily, citing its benefits for the uterus lining, and enjoys a super bone broth made by her husband Greg, which is rich in collagen and glycine and conducive for embryo transfer.

Mari Prefers Brands Like Skims, Maui Nui Venison, and Masa Chips For Quality, Healthy Alternatives

Mari is selective about the brands she uses. She endorses Skims for their comfortable underwear and appreciates Maui Nui Venison, which she advocates as the healthiest red meat available—sourced from wild, stress-free deer, and high in protein, which is c ...

Mari Embraced a Balanced, Feminine Fitness Approach, Prioritizing Self-Care and Mindfulness

Mari experienced a significant shift in her life during fertility treatments which led her to transition from an intense, masculine, adrenaline-driven lifestyle to one that incorporates a more feminine, mindful approach to fitness and self-care.

Overcome Gym Anxiety With Progress, Planning, and Distraction Techniques

Mari shares her struggle with gym anxiety, describing past experiences of discomfort and embarrassment that often led to her leaving the gym in tears, feeling as if all eyes were on her. To combat these feelings, Mari offers several tips. She stresses the importance of remembering everyone starts as a beginner and that people generally visit the gym to focus on self-improvement. To minimize distraction and create a sense of privacy, she recommends wearing a baseball cap and large headphones. Additionally, having a solid workout plan can provide direction and confidence, helping to alleviate aimlessness and the discomfort that comes with it.

In ...

Mari and Greg Navigate Business and IVF, Adjusting Roles as Needed

Mari and her husband Greg have co-founded their business together since 2018, which has only strengthened their bond through various challenges. While originally working together in all aspects of the business, the couple now finds themselves adapting their roles within the company due to their IVF journey. As Mari steps back to focus on IVF, the duo divides their tasks, which permits them to share distinct experiences at day's end, enriching their connection.

This recent change has allowed Mari and Greg to experience a new phase in their life where they can appreciate being husband and wife, rather than constantly being in their co-founder roles. Greg's support extends into their personal lives, including accompanying Mari to church and being actively involved in the IVF process by measuring injections and being by her side during egg retrieval, showcasing the depth of his commitment.

Greg's investment in their mutual desire for the success of their IVF efforts further speaks to the strength of their marital relationship. His token of affection – anniversary earrings that Mari wears every day – symbolizes the couple's enduring love and support for each other. Additionally, the earrings may represent a symbol of ...