Food as Postpartum Medicine

Doctors have rather strict dietary guidelines for expectant mothers: lots of iron, fish oil and omega-3's, no sushi, no deli meat, eat all the time, drink lots of water... Why aren't there any specific guidelines on eating after baby is born, especially if the new mother is breastfeeding or healing a surgical incision?

Food is medicine, and Americans are beginning to understand this (to some extent). There have been a ton of studies performed on the best diet for weight loss, the effect of the microbiome, and why a person should or shouldn't eat meat. Unfortunately, most of this research is conflicting, and we still don't have a solid answer on the ultimate diet for optimal human functioning. However, there are some foods that may particularly aid in the healing and mental functioning of a new mother.

Indian and Asian cultures traditionally feed the mother warming foods such as soups, spices, and beans and vegetables (Kindelan, ABC News). This trend is catching on in America, as discussed in Kimberly Ann Johnson's book, The Fourth Trimester.

Indian traditions also advise against eating fruit and cool vegetables, such as cucumbers, during the postpartum period.

Mothers who have just undergone a cesarean section should focus on wound-healing diets. This means eliminating sugars and caffeine, as both can inhibit the wound healing process. They should also eat a diet high in iron and fiber so as to keep the digestive system running smoothly.

All mothers should focus on rebalancing gut health, as the gut is a main influence on a person's mood and mental well-being. Foods that contribute positively to gut health include ghee (clarified butter), fermented foods (sauerkraut, yogurt, and kefir), and bone broth.

Knowing what to eat is only half of the battle after giving birth. A mother must also think about how she is going to feed herself during this time. A new tradition to add into baby showers it the creation of a meal train where friends and family can sign up to bring a home cooked meal to the new parent(s) on a specific day. Alternatively, expectant mothers may also spend some time right before baby arrives preparing meals and freezing them for consumption after baby is born. Postpartum doulas often also offer a meal prep service as part of their normal offerings to new parents.