10 Superfoods for New Mothers

Following a healthy diet is very important during pregnancy. It is also important for new mothers to eat healthy after the baby is born. It will help you recover from labor and cope well with the new stress and pressure of motherhood.

A good diet is especially important if you are breastfeeding to ensure that your baby gets all the important nutrients required for proper growth and development. Plus, a balanced diet will help your body produce breast milk and replenish nutrients that you have lost for the benefit of your baby.

The length of time to breastfeed can vary. The American Association of Pediatrics suggests that babies be breastfed for a minimum of one year, while the World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.

Breastfeeding reduces your baby’s risk of developing asthma or allergies, respiratory illnesses, frequent ear infections, and other ailments. Plus, it will help you and your baby develop a bond.

To make sure you and your baby get all the nutrients you both need, include some superfoods in your diet during the postpartum period.

Here are the top 10 superfoods for new mothers.

1. Eggs

Eggs are an excellent source of good quality protein with the ideal balance of amino acids. This will provide you strength and stamina to take care of yourself as well as your baby.

Egg yolks are also one of the few natural sources of vitamin D, an essential nutrient to keep your bones strong and help your baby’s bones grow. Plus, the choline in eggs is crucial for building the memory center of a baby’s brain.

Eat one to two eggs daily. You can have them scrambled, hard boiled or in an omelet.

2. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is one of the most popular lactogenic foods. This natural whole-grain, high-fiber food is easily digestible. It is very useful for new mothers suffering from postnatal constipation, a very common condition.

Its high iron content also helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia, also very common in new mothers. Plus, oatmeal helps increase breast milk supply.

Freshly cooked oatmeal can be topped off with a spoonful of raw honey, cardamom, saffron or some fresh fruits to increase its nutritional value. A warm bowl of oatmeal will also help you relax and cope with stress.

3. Salmon

Salmon is extremely good for new mothers due to its amazing nutritional value. It is a fatty fish containing a high amount of a fat called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA helps in the development of your newborn’s nervous system.

Salmon is also high in protein and vitamin B12. Plus, salmon has been found to help prevent postpartum depression.

Enjoy two main servings of salmon per week. Opt for wild salmon when possible and fresh rather than frozen.

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