The Science of Preconception: Measuring Fertility, Toxins, and Generational Health With Josh Clemente

I joined Josh Clemente, founder and CEO of Levels, on the podcast A Whole New Level for a conversation about one of the most important and often overlooked windows in medicine: preconception health.

Fertility is often discussed in terms of age or intervention. But what we explore in this episode is a different perspective. The months leading up to conception represent a powerful opportunity to influence the lifelong health of your future child through epigenetics.

In my clinical work, I often describe fertility as a “check engine light.” When something is off, it is rarely isolated to the reproductive system. It is often a reflection of deeper imbalances involving metabolism, inflammation, toxin exposure, and nutrient status.

In this discussion, I share how a systems-based, root-cause approach can help uncover what is driving these imbalances. We discuss how mitochondrial function, the microbiome, and environmental exposures all interact to shape both fertility and long-term health outcomes for the next generation.

We also explore practical, data-driven ways to support the body during this critical window. From improving blood sugar stability using tools like continuous glucose monitors to reducing everyday toxin exposures, these “mini-experiments” can create meaningful shifts in biology before conception.

This episode offers a more proactive framework for fertility. One that moves beyond reactive care and focuses on preparing the body to support a healthy pregnancy and a resilient child.

In this episode, we cover:

• The preconception window and why the 3–12 months before pregnancy matter for epigenetic programming
• A systems-based approach to fertility rooted in data, patterns, and root-cause medicine
• How environmental toxins like PFAS, phthalates, and microplastics can disrupt hormone health
• Trends in sperm health and the role of lifestyle in reversing decline
• Why mitochondrial function is foundational for egg and sperm quality
• A thoughtful perspective on IVF and why optimizing the body first matters
• The role of glucose and metabolic health in fertility and epigenetic outcomes

If you are thinking about starting a family or want to better understand how your health today shapes future generations, this is an important conversation to explore.

Watch the full episode on YouTube, here.