Lisa Penny is a qualified nutritionist specialising in women’s health and fertility. Through her own personal experiences she has developed a deep understanding and knowledge of the intricate connection between diet and overall wellbeing. Lisa’s holistic approach prioritises the role of natural, whole foods in nurturing both women’s mental and physical health throughout their fertility journey.
In our interview we speak to Lisa about the intrinsic difference between our fertility and diet, the importance of home health and how she promotes a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
What do you love most about your home?
I love that it feels cozy and relaxing. It's just a place where I feel safe and at ease.
What led you to moving from London to the countryside?
My family and I moved out just after COVID. We had a one and a half year old boy and we wanted to get out of the city and enjoy countryside life.
What inspired you to help people with their health?
I went through a long journey with IVF to conceive my two sons, Milo and Rafferty. So, at the time it was a lot going through fertility treatment and I wanted to do everything I could do holistically with my nutrition to support the journey. Now I work with other women and couples that are going through similar journeys.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Finding out my clients are pregnant. I'm normally the first one to find out because they'll message me and say the cycle worked or I've got that positive pregnancy test and that just means everything to me. It’s why I do what I do.
From your own personal journey, what helped you the most with curating overall health?
I would say prioritising self-care and meal prep. It's all in the planning. So if your home is stocked with nourishing, whole foods that are going to energise you and balance your hormones then you're less likely to go for the convenience of processed foods.
What are a few items always stocked in your pantry?
My pantry is always stocked with things like beans, legumes, coconut milk, nuts and seeds. My fridge always has fresh fruit, vegetables and milk. Just all the basics - keep it simple and easy.
How can our home environment impact our fertility and overall wellbeing?
There's a lot of studies that show that plastics in the home and harsh chemicals can impact our fertility. So reducing plastics, using glass containers, glass bottles, and chemical free home products is really important.
If you were to picture a healthy home environment, what comes to mind?
I think of the kitchen because our life revolves around the kitchen - farm-to-table eating and just it being a happy place that you can socialise in and laugh and enjoy.
How do you maintain a clean living environment?
I suppose the number one thing would be having windows open for clean air and ventilation, alongside keeping on top of cleaning by using natural products.
Before UNTOLDMOULD, were you thinking about the quality of the air you breathe at home?
Absolutely. I've got two young children, a two and a 5-year-old, and their health and wellness is an absolute priority.
How important is it now for you to know that your family is breathing fresh air?
It's absolutely vital. My family are my priority so to know they are breathing clean, fresh air is everything.