A Natural Guide to Caring for Your Body After Baby

Possible causes

Indulging in sleep may be a thing of the past as you’re now realizing the all-consuming energy needed for your newborn. Interrupted sleep, lack of support, breastfeeding struggles, and adjusting to your new normal may contribute to increased fatigue as you embrace life as a new mom.

Possible remedies

The quality of sleep is just as important as the quantity of sleep. It’s suggested that sleeping near everyday disturbances such as your cellphone and television works against you when postpartum rest is needed. Instead, try creating your own cozy, sacred space

Possible causes

Sodium-rich foods signal cellular water storage, which may lead to a swollen or bloated look to your body. If you received IV fluid during labour, studies suggest you may experience breast engorgement and swelling of your feet, legs, and hands as a side effect.

Possible remedies

Try to avoid those oh-so-easy prepackaged foods, as sodium is a prevalent ingredient. Look for potassium-rich foods such as bananas, avocados, spinach, and beans or lentils instead, as potassium works naturally to reduce the body’s sodium levels.

You could also try a dandelion infusion; dandelion is well known for its diuretic effect. You can find dried dandelion or teas containing dandelion at almost any natural health store.

Possible causes

You may feel uterine cramping, as uterine involution is occurring during the first postpartum days. This is the process during which your uterus returns to its former pre-pregnancy size.

Possible remedies

Traditional Chinese medicine practitioner Nicole Davies says, “Acupuncture has been known to effectively relieve cramping and pelvic pain by increasing circulation to the uterus, reducing inflammation, and releasing endorphins.”

Possible causes

Feelings of postpartum depression (PPD) can affect up to 85 percent of new mothers as a possible result of the significant routine shift that comes with parenthood, poor sleep, hormone changes, lack of nutrients, or feelings of being isolated.

Possible remedies

Be sure to check in with your health care practitioner if you think you may be experiencing PPD. Some mindfulness practices, such as meditation, may help quiet your mind and listen inwardly. This can make asking for help easier if you know exactly how and what you’re feeling.

Possible causes

Lack of time, knowledge, convenience, help, and energy might make you feel that preparing and eating nutritious food is impossible. Not to mention that grocery shopping may be the last thing on your to-do list.

Possible remedies

Taking a few minutes to make a meal plan may prove helpful in the long run. Cooking can also be easier than you think if you wash and chop ingredients ahead of time—when you have some spare time. Try to snack often on nutrient-dense food—variety is important.

Possible causes

Exhaustion affects our mental health, specifically memory and concentration. Do you feel emotionally drained? This can result from lack of sleep and feeling the pressure to do everything and more in a day.

Possible remedies

Promoting relaxation through light yoga and/or meditation during the postpartum season may be effective, and having a trusted friend or relative to talk to about what you’re experiencing is also important. Getting outdoors to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine can do a world of good to help reinvigorate you.

• 1 cup (250 mL) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) ice
• 1/2 banana
• 2 Tbsp (30 mL) cacao powder
• 2 to 4 pitted dates
• 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla extract
• Cinnamon (optional)

In high-speed blender, add all ingredients. Blend on high until smooth, and serve. Top with powdered cinnamon, if desired.