So much is centered around food and nutrition when you’re pregnant; are you getting the right vitamins and minerals, enough of them, and avoiding things that could be harmful to a growing fetus? In the same way, it’s not uncommon for new moms to go a little crazy with their postpartum diet, too.
That’s what happened to Vancouver mom Clarissa Sidhom. “I was starving from breastfeeding and overwhelmed by postpartum depression. This led to eating whatever was fastest and easiest — a lot of junk food that actually caused me to gain weight,” she told Mom.com.
Clarissa isn’t alone. I longed for a six-pack of Coca-Cola as soon as my son was born which probably wasn’t the best craving for healing and breastfeeding. Knowing what foods are best for your body is essential if you’re trying to lose the postpartum baby weight, for more energy to do all those mom tasks, and to help keep your baby healthy if you are breastfeeding. Getting the right food in you will help you feel better both physically and mentally.
Best food for new moms during the 4th trimester|Best food for new moms during the 4th trimester
Don't eat this: Foods to avoid after giving birth
If you’re looking to take off the baby weight, stay away from junk food and high sugar foods. This means staying away from fast food, processed foods from the grocery store, and anything with empty calories.
If you are breastfeeding, some of the same rules apply as when you were pregnant — certain foods remain off-limits. “It is recommended that breastfeeding women avoid eating fish with high mercury levels including: pike, marlin, mackerel, tilefish, albacore white tuna, and swordfish,” registered dietitian Kerry Jones told Mom.com. These foods can transfer mercury to your baby leading to possible lung, kidney, or nervous system issues. It can also cause hearing and vision problems.
You can, however, enjoy some alcoholic drinks in moderation — and be mindful of when you drink. “Alcohol can be safely consumed,” Jones continued. “However, it is recommended that women wait to nurse at least 2 hours after drinking for each serving of alcohol consumed. One serving of alcohol is equal to 12 fluid ounces of beer, 5 fluid ounces of wine, or 1.5 fluid ounces of liquor.”
When it comes to coffee, experts say you can drink it, just in moderation. Drinking more than one cup of coffee is likely to disrupt your baby’s sleeping schedule. So if you’re breastfeeding, you can have your java but make it a short instead of a grande.
Remember that your diet is designed to help you feel better both mentally and physically, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself to lose the baby weight. While there may be some restrictions, don’t hesitate to enjoy a cheat day and indulge. Being a new mom is hard work and you deserve it.
