The Best Foods To Help Postpartum Recovery
The postpartum period is a real rollercoaster. After giving birth, it’s really important to nourish your body with the right foods to aid your recovery. From pregnancy to the post-birth period, your body has just experienced a major transition, and needs all the support it can get to heal and regain strength - especially as you’re dealing with sleepless nights, and potentially breastfeeding, too. Here are some of the best foods to include in your postpartum diet plan:
- Lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and tofu are essential for postpartum recovery. Protein is needed for tissue repair and rebuilding muscles that may have been strained during labor. We love the Mob smoked tofu and spicy noodle salad recipe for a speedy, healthy and protein-packed dinner!
- Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and minerals that can help replenish any nutrients lost during childbirth. They are also a good source of fiber which can aid in digestion.
- Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants which can help reduce inflammation and support your immune system as it recovers from giving birth.
- Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats provide a good source of energy and fiber which can help regulate blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Foods like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil are rich in healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for brain health and can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
- Bone broth is a nutrient-dense food that can help support gut health, reduce inflammation, and provide your body with essential minerals like calcium and magnesium.
- Greek yogurt is a good source of probiotics which can help support a healthy gut microbiome and aid in digestion. It is also high in protein which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which can help reduce inflammation and support brain health. It is also a good source of protein which can aid in postpartum recovery.
- Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C which can help support your immune system and aid in wound healing. They are also a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates which can provide sustained energy.
Do I Need To Take Pregnancy Supplements After Giving Birth?
In addition to incorporating these foods into your postpartum diet plan, it may also be helpful to supplement with HANX Pregnancy Support. Inspired by our Co-Founder and obstetrics expert, Dr Sarah Welsh’s own journey to motherhood, we specially formulated this supplement to support you in build-up to conception, during pregnancy and throughout breastfeeding and postpartum recovery. It contains key nutrients like folic acid, iron, and vitamin D that are important for overall health and wellbeing. Find out more about why supplements are so important during pregnancy and afterwards here.
Remember, everyone’s postpartum recovery journey is unique, so it is important to listen to your body and consult your GP or healthcare provider if you have any concerns. By nourishing your body with the right foods and supplements, you can support your postpartum recovery and feel your best as you adjust to life with your new little one.
Want more?
- You might not even be thinking about sex yet, but it’s important to get your post-birth contraception lined up. Here’s our expert guide to preventing pregnancy postpartum.
- Ease into intimacy with our Postpartum Pleasure Bundle, complete with signed guide from women’s health champion, Clio Wood. Shop now.
- Expecting? Set yourself and baby up with all-natural nutrition by subscribing to regular, discreet deliveries of Pregnancy Support.