What Foods Should I Eat After Birth?
Today, I want to delve into a topic that is close to my heart, for anyone who knows me knows how important food is to me and it is my love language when supporting new families as their postnatal doula. As a mother myself, I understand the importance of gentle, easily digestible, and warming foods during this transformative time. After the miraculous journey of bringing new life into the world, it's crucial to focus on foods that not only nourish your body but also support your postpartum recovery. So, let's explore a selection of dishes that will soothe your soul and nourish your body during this phase of motherhood.
BONE BROTH
A warm cup of bone broth after birth is incredibly healing. It can be made in advance, frozen and then taken out of the freezer when labour starts.
This cup of goodness is full of nutrients, minerals and collagen to help towards joint and tissue repair. It is also an anti inflammatory and easy on the digestion. Broth can be enjoyed as a drink on its own or you can add vegetables, grains and protein for a post birth soup.
LENTIL DAHL
Dhal is a staple part of Ayurvedic cooking and a meal often served to new mothers during their 'period of confinement'.
This simple and nourishing meal is gentle to digest, warming to eat because of the many different spices used and supports breastmilk production. Lentils are rich in fibre and potassium, which lowers blood pressure.
Dhal can be made and frozen ahead of the birth. When ready to eat- defrost, warm and serve.
SUPERFOOD SMOOTHIE
Smoothies are a quick & easy (not to mention delicious) way of getting lots of goodness into you without having to chop, peel and cook.
They don't need to have lots of different things in them to pack a punch.
Adding things like spinach, cacao, ginger or supplements such as probiotics or pea protein will give your body what it needs to support recovery. You can also have a placenta smoothie post birth which is said to replace iron and other vitamins lost during birth.
Frozen fruit and veg can be individually portioned so all you need to do is add milk!
OATS
Oats are a slow releasing energy food, porridge can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Boxed cereals can be highly processed which can sometimes lead to a sugar crash after eating.
Porridge is a great fuel food, especially if breastfeeding which can make you feel hungry.
Adding seeds such as chia, flaxseed, pumpkin seeds and prunes will support bowel movements which can be quite challenging after giving birth. Top with your favourite fruits to brighten the bowl!
For more information and recipe ideas for what to eat during your postpartum aka The Fourth Trimester, you can download my FREE e-book ‘The Mini Motherhood Menu- Postpartum Edition’ here