Wholesome Nourishment from Mom

The most beneficial and vitally important thing you can provide your new baby – second to love and a properly functioning nervous system – is breastmilk. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding up to one year of age and the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding your baby through two years of age.

Breastmilk is living fluid that changes daily to meet the needs of your baby. Eating the proper amount of nutritionally-rich foods provides wholesome nourishment. Training the mind to avoid overindulging in sweets and white flours will provide an enormous benefit and will prevent irritations and uncomfortable symptoms in your child. It is vitally important to drink enough water, as breast milk has a high water content that your baby needs. Aim to drink about 2.5 Liters of water per day and avoid coffee, tea, or diuretics.

It is best to eat plenty of proteins and good fats. Especially during the first few months of motherhood, fill your house with plenty of healthy foods and snacks. Pre-cut raw veggies, fresh fruits, nuts, and low sugar health bars are a life-saver when time is limited and meal preparation seems impossible. A large pot of soup is a nourishing meal and easy to reheat. 

Eat foods high in essential fatty acids (EFAs) to help to elevate your mood, increase energy levels and regulate hunger and body weight. EFAs can be found in avocados, nuts, coconut oil, and olive oil. Increasing B Vitamins, especially B12 and B6, can help new moms with fatigue, anxiety and to balance their emotions. Good food sources for B12 include grass-fed beef, eggs, spirulina, seaweed, mushrooms, sprouts, and raw sunflower seeds. B6 can be found in bananas, currants, apricots, chicken, turkey, and sweet potatoes.

Breastfeeding difficulties can arise for a number of reasons. One major obstacle can occur from injury to a baby’s spine during the birthing process. Areas of interference caused from birth in the upper neck of a child influences their brain and body’s ability to perform breastfeeding with ease. Our gentle, safe and highly specific pediatric chiropractic adjustments remove this interference to a child’s spine and nervous system, allowing them to naturally latch and nurse with ease. Postpartum chiropractic care for mothers can also increase milk production and boost immunity. Many challenges with breastfeeding can be transcended with technique modification and the right support network, including chiropractic care. 

Becoming a mommy can be an overwhelming time in a woman’s life. Creating time for self-care and eating the proper foods, especially while breastfeeding is vital. Join and embrace a network of experienced women to support your breastfeeding efforts, including your doula, midwife and of course, your family chiropractor! The doctors at Pure Light Family Chiropractic are here to support you on your journey into and through parenthood.
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