postpartum nutrition

The days just after childbirth are an important time of nourishment and rest.

Average blood loss in delivery is 500ml-1000ml, resulting in depletion that can present as: mild to severe headaches, blurred vision, anxiety, low blood pressure and orthostatic hypotension (fainting upon standing), pale complexion, anemia and more.

Here are four tips for supporting your at home recovery and replenishing your blood supply, rooted in traditional wisdom and functional nutrition:

1. Warm, cooked, + nourishing: In the early days postpartum, try to emphasize nutrient dense and easy-to-digest meals and snacks. Go easy on your recovering digestive system to let your body focus on your recovery. Tip: If you love smoothies and cold foods, warm them up with spices like ginger, cinnamon and turmeric to offset their cooling properties.

2. Anchor your blood sugar to keep hormones steady: high quality protein and fats are helpful tools for managing blood sugar, which is the foundation of a balanced endocrine system.

3. Chinese dates (jujubes) and goji berries are wonderful foods to add to your pantry, as these powerful blood tonics provide an immediate source of energy and blood support. Add them to a smoothie or overnight oats and pair them with nut butter to keep your blood sugar balanced.

4. Rebuild with collagen: Bone broths and grass-fed powders are a great source of collagen, an essential nutrient in tissue repair, joint support to counteract the effects of relaxin, and are a wonderful source of protein for energy and anchoring your blood sugar.