(Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash)
Genesis 1:29-30
Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air and all the creatures that moves on the ground-everything that has the breath of life in it-I give every green plant for food. And it was so.
Food was created by God to keep us alive. “Dah”, you say, “of course it keeps us alive!” But did you know that the right types of foods eaten in the postpartum stage can really help your body to recover so much better? Let me explain. As you know, your body has just gone through a huge change. Let’s face it, birth is called labour for a reason. It is hard work. So now your body needs to heal from all those changes that have happened to your body.
During childbirth the mother experiences blood loss as well as a lot of other physical and hormonal changes. A new mother needs to build her blood and nourish the body and so we begin with the right food as medicine to do this.
The body is trying to heal. Avoid cold foods like ice cream and iced water, which can transfer cold to the uterus and increase the energy needed for digestion, energy that a woman doesn’t have to spare postpartum. It may have worked for getting and regaining health previously, but cold and raw foods are actually taxing for the system at this time and will deplete us further. What we need is to nourish, rebuild blood, and heal. Instead of cold foods, eat warm foods and drink warm drinks that the body can easily digest and allow it to concentrate on the healing process.
Eat foods like beef, chicken, eggs, black sesame seeds, dates, cooked greens, carrots, soups. Broths are great, especially the ones with lots of collagen. Remember, take care to eat three meals per day with two nutritious snacks in between (especially for the breastfeeding mums). Also make sure your food choices have an adequate amount of healthy protein and fat. This will keep your blood-sugar levels steady and will help you rebuild your energy and have enough stores for your baby.
Food is meant to be enjoyed. When you eat well, your body heals, your baby benefits and you feel better overall.
Remember, I read once that the days seem long, but the years are short. Eating well can help you savour the moments, and help you get through the difficult times.
Regards,
Sandy
Note: this blog is meant for general advice and not specific care. Please see a professional if you are needing help.