Eating Right Can Help You Get Through Postpartum


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By the time you’ve given birth, you’ve heard just about all there is to hear about eating right. Still, nutrition continues to be important after you’ve given birth. It’s especially important that you eat a balanced, nutritious diet if you are dealing with postpartum depression.

Taking care of a newborn baby is a tough job for anyone. Even those who are in great physical and mental/emotional shape can find it tough keeping up with the constant feedings, changings, crying, and everything else that goes with being a new mom. The last thing any new mom needs is to try doing it all without adequate energy. Unhealthy eating habits (or going without eating) can leave you even more tired-and more depressed- than you were before.

When you have postpartum depression, it can feel like everything is hopeless and you are helpless. Choosing to eat a balanced, healthy diet is one thing you can control. It’s one thing that you can choose to do for yourself and your baby regardless of how you’re feeling. Making the choice to take proper care of yourself, in and of itself, can help you feel a little better.

While this is not intended as a complete nutritional guide (see your doctor or nutritionist for that), here are some tips for healthy eating while you are going through postpartum depression:

  • Drink lots of fluids. You’d be amazed at how many physical and emotional problems are linked to dehydration. Drink water, milk, and juice. Lay off coffee and soda as much as you can.
  • Eat plenty of fresh fruit and veggies. This isn’t exactly new advice, but it’s good advice. Mix things up with a variety of fresh vegetables and fruit.
  • Protein. Don’t skimp on protein postpartum, especially if you’re dealing with postpartum depression. Eat plenty of lean protein. Oily fish (salmon, tuna, etc.) is an excellent choice. If you’re vegetarian, eat plenty of soy, whey, tofu, or nuts.
  • Don’t focus on losing weight. You’re going to lose some weight naturally, but don’t get down on yourself if you don’t fit into those pre-pregnancy jeans after your baby is born. Most women take several months to get back to pre-pregnancy size. 


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This entry was posted in After Pregnancy.



 



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