OK so you have managed to survive 9 months (Really 40 weeks=10 months!) of morning sickness, swollen body parts and now uncomfortable nights of GERD (gastro esophageal reflux) not to mention multiple trips to bathroom to pee yet again…Finally the day is arriving where that little bundle (or bundles) will be in your arms and you will be a Mom!
So it took 9 months for your body to gradually evolve and change to first produce and then nurture this gift. The weight you have gained is not only the baby, but placenta, increased blood volume and body fat preparing you to breast feed and take care of the baby. Moms should know it takes time to readjust after a child- the body has an amazing ability to bounce back , but it needs some extra time and TLC. Here are 5 TLC tips for post partum moms.
1. Breast Feed: Studies show breast feeding not only provides your baby with the best nutrition it can get, it shows babies have lower incidences obesity- and moms- you burn 500 calories/day breast feeding. You can lose those baby pounds so much faster.
2. Drink plenty of water to support breast feeding.
3. When the baby naps…YOU nap! Forget cleaning up or doing laundry. You need to be able to function and keep sane. Rested mom= can cope with baby mom.
4. Baby may feed every 3 hours or so. That means you need to feed yourself as well 3-4x/day. Get help in preparing food you can grab directly from the fridge- soups, salads, sandwiches. Heck even go out and buy pre-made healthy foods. Stock up without having to worry. Freeze foods like home made soups and casseroles for a quick meal. Have healthy snacks available from nuts and fruit to trail mix and yogurt.
5. Finally: Say to yourself “I am a perfect MOM because heck I just produced a “perfect” baby.” Enjoy!
Some excellent Pre/Post Natal websites from www.nursingschools.net
Beyond Prenatals: Learn what you can do to get the right nutrition you need beyond taking vitamins if you’re pregnant or hoping to conceive. Recommended post: “Vitamin D in Pregnancy and Beyond.”
Expect the Best: This blog will help moms eat healthy before, during and after their pregnancies. Recommended post: “Quick Healthy Meals for Your Family.”
Fresh Start Nutrition: This site is full of great advice and ideas for parents and little ones alike. Recommended post: “How to Choose a Fish Oil Supplement.”
Cassandra Forsythe: Check out this blog for stories and help for pregnant women on what to eat, how to stay fit and how to feed your baby. Recommended post: “Whole Grains are GREAT.”
Your Baby Eats WHAT?: If you’re on a mission to make your own baby food and baby meals, this blog is a must-read. Recommended post: “Futari– pumpkin and yam stew for baby led weaning.”
Mama Knows Breast: For newborns, there’s little better for them to eat than breast milk. Learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding here. Recommended post: “The IRS and Breast Pumps.”