Our body is truly amazing! Can you believe that you’ve just supported a new life for nine months, and then overcame the physical task unlike any other, giving birth to your beautiful baby! Now, your body is producing milk and adjusting to new hormones, sleep deprivation, and new routines. It’s easy to slip into the hustle and bustle of life, with the primary focus being the care of your new little bundle. Even if you feel there’s little time to dedicate to your own wellbeing - there are some simple things you can do and aid postpartum healing.
Boost Immunity
Foods rich in vitamins and minerals are the best for immune-boosting and warding off illness; papaya, oats, organic meats, flax oil, chia seeds, berries, honey and lemon are just a few examples.
Vitamin C is well known for its immune-boosting properties and is found in foods such as dark leafy lettuce, avocado, kiwi, oranges and lemons. Taking 1000mg of vitamin C per day especially during the winter can help boost your mood, and ward off colds/flus.
Mineral zinc is essential for a strong immune system and unfortunately the body doesn’t naturally store it, so we must consume it regularly. It can be found is foods like organic non-GMO lean meats, beans and lentils, nuts and seafood. If you are a vegetarian, here’s a zinc supplement you can take. Start off with 30mg per day with food.
Veggies such as such as pumpkin and spinach are high in various nutrients including Vitamin A, folate and magnesium that protect, and assist relaxation. I’ve created an awesome postpartum pumpkin protein pancake you will surely love! The best thing about this pancake (besides the taste) is that you can prepare it in large and snack when hungry! See recipe below!
Increase Energy
Raw nuts, green tea matcha, oats, quinoa, berries, veggie sticks, coconut oil and avocados help sustain energy and promote skin healing, while whole grains can provide large amounts of vitamins B’s, known for converting foods into energy.
Increase energy throughout the day by eating small meals/snacks that contain a balance of nutrients – carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water/coconut water to assist with energy levels, fatigue is common when dehydrated, and it’s very easy to become dehydrated after birth and especially when breastfeeding.
Heal - Stitches/Skin
Pelvic floor muscle exercises help perineal stitches to heal by improving circulation to the area and this can naturally reduce swelling.
Another tip to reduce swelling is to apply cold cabbage or ice packs to the area.
Healthy fats such as salmon, flax oil/coconut oil, avocados and nut butters can help relieve dry skin from the inside out.
Dry brushing can help exfoliate dead skin while exiting the shower with cold water can help speed metabolism and reduce inflammation.
Applying rose hip oil/aloe vera gel to dry or stretching skin can also help prevent stretch marks.
Wear your Belly Bandit Corset or Wrap immediately after birth helping to shrink your belly, waist and hips all at the same time! http://bellybandit.com/shrink-shop/
And now for that recipe…..Enjoy!
PUMPKIN-SPINACH PROTEIN PANCAKES
4-5 Servings
2 tbsp buckwheat flour (spelt or quinoa works too)
2 tbsp almond meal
3 tbsp protein powder (I use Garden of Life Vanilla)
1 handful diced spinach
1/2 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp vanilla extract
pinch of ginger
1/4 tsp pure cinnamon
pinch of sea salt
1 egg
4 tbsp pure pumpkin puree 2-3 tbsp non-dairy milk (I use Orgain Almond milk)
Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl, stir to combine. Add dry ingredients and mix together.
Heat a large skillet and grease (with coconut oil). Scoop 3tbsp of batter to form each pancake. Cook until it starts to bubble, then flip and cook an additional minute.
To read more of Adele’s tips head to, www.adelecavaliere.com
