Rebecca Grant joins me on episode 78 of the No Higher Calling podcast to talk about nourishing your postpartum body. She shared some very helpful information, and I wanted to be sure that you had something to reference as you digest the episode.
Below, you will find the show notes for her episode.
Importance of Nutrition
– replenish (loss of 10% of mineral stores with each birth)
– hormonal issues
– positive or negative effect of menopause years and beyond
– Postpartum is a sacred time that should focus on nourishing the mother which will nourish the baby. Recovering from birth and creating breastmilk, requires rest and proper nourishment and hydration. Many women are depleted even before getting pregnant so this time is vital to replenish and restore!
Physical – nutrition and healing
Emotional – support with hormones (oils, massage/touch)
Mental – processing and journaling
Spiritual – praise and gratitude, scriptural encouragement (study if possible)
Rest
– this is what will actually help you heal the most effectively and completely
– lying flat on your back as much as possible for first 2 weeks
– Rule of 5-5-5
Nutrition
-Vitamin and Mineral Impact (from good sources)
– Beef liver (natures multivitamin)minerals, B vitamins, Vit A, copper
– Trace minerals (Celtic sea salt or unrefined mineral salt)
– Egg and yolks (iron, zinc, selenium, copper, calcium, iodine, phosphorus, potassium,
riboflavin, B5, biotin, folate, choline, B12, via ADEK
– Bee pollen – amino acids, vit CAKDE, ALL B vitamins, choline, trace minerals
– Raw dairy (Vitamins ADEK) (Butter-iodine, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium)
-Protein – essential for… muscle health, hydration, immune system, milk supply; try to get at least 100g a day
Hydration
– Filtered water (prune juice warm for 1st BM)
– WARM as much as possible
– Add trace minerals, juice, raw honey, coconut water,anti-inflammatory,
– (Redmon salt, Golden Turmeric, Mineral Essence, Ningxia)
– Teas, bone broth, healthy hot chocolate (milk, collagen, salt, raw cacao, honey or maple
syrup)
Getting Practical
(Nourishing foods that are easily digestible/ consume enough calories, min2700)
– Gelatin (bone broth, homemade gummies and marshmallows)
– raw dairy (vit ADEK, magnesium
– fresh fruits – fiber, hydration, energy, (apples, oranges, berries…)
– warming and hearty soups
– adrenals cocktail – thyroid (hormone) support, basically a mineral math for your adrenals (not to be used as a meal, best used leading op to a meal) Basic recipe: 1/2 c orange juice/1/2 cup coconut water, 1/4 tsp mineral salt (Vit C, Potassium, minerals) you can also add a scoop of collagen and 1tbsp cream if concerned about blood sugar
– sprouted oatmeal (soak >5 hrs) (then cook with gelatin, salt, honey, and raw butter)
– collagen/egg yolk coffee (must be pastured eggs)
– Egg yolk benefits – choline(inflammation and neuro) ADEK
***Note – Food is Fuel! Yes, it is yummy and can be emotionally related, but you must remember this is your energy source. If you are not eating enough you will not have the energy and fuel to properly heal and also perform all the bodily functions necessary to be in your best health.
Breastfeeding
– high quality diet is what gives you high quality milk (supply too)
– Balance blood sugar (helps reduce some of the nutritional stress caused by nursing)
– Protein must be the anchor in your snacks and meals to keep blood sugar from spiking
– String cheese, apple, dark chocolate
– greek yogurt, honey, berries, granola
– beef jerky and fruit (pouch)
– cottage cheese, jam, fruit (lo fat)
– deli meat roll ups, toast
– hardboiled eggs, sourdough
– remember – Protein, fat, carb
– watch for toxins (pesticides) – will still pass through milk
Pelvic Floor
– deep breathing to relax
– diaphragmatic breathing
– see a specialist – its worth it!
Exercise
Don’t rush! (Personally, nothing more than walking and stretching before a month)
Postpartum Problems
If you are experiencing issues – get help!
Talk to to someone you trust get help
Check your mineral levels (HTMA test)
– Check your thyroid
Pinpoint what is stressing you – seek measures and supports
Find more helpful resources and information on Rebecca’s Instagram accounts.