Choose Whole Grains
During the postpartum period, ditch the white bread and opt instead for breads made with whole grains, such as rye and oat. Whole grains help you crush cravings because they keep your blood sugar stable.
In addition to whole grain breads, nosh on brown rice, whole grain cereals and pasta made with whole grains.
Consume Collagen Boosters
Healing muscles that have stretched through labor need collagen to return to their original shape. In addition, while many women experience luxuriously thick hair during pregnancy, they find themselves shedding after giving birth. Collagen helps to prevent excessive hair loss.
Foods high in collagen include citrus fruits and juices, avocados, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds and eggs. Bone broth contains the most collagen-boosting power, so drink up if you’re not a vegetarian.
Take Your Vitamins!
Many women quit taking their prenatal vitamins after giving birth. Don’t do it! Your body needs extra vitamins to recuperate during this time. Try to choose a supplement containing high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D and B-vitamins. Adding a B-12 supplement provides an energy boost during this tiring time.
Adding a magnesium supplement can help stave off postpartum depression. Because magnesium also affects your digestive tract, start low and slowly build up to a greater supplement. Be sure to give your physician a call if you find that supplementing with magnesium alone falls short of breaking the baby blues.
Having a baby changes your world in so many ways. Feeding yourself well and getting the right nutrition helps you to adjust to the demands of your new family member. So eat up, take your vitamins, drink your water and celebrate the new life you’ve created!
Emily is the editor of Conservation Folks and a sustainability and conservation blogger. Follow her on Twitter to see the latest updates.
