Previously, we covered on which eggs, legumes, soy to eat and avoid during postpartum period. Now, we explore about nuts and seeds!
Nuts and seeds are known as superfoods for postpartum mums. They are a great source of vitamins, protein, and minerals which are great to accelerate postpartum recovery. Not only that but nuts and seeds also can enhance your breast milk supply. However, not all nuts and seeds are good to consume during the postpartum period as it could hinder your recovery process instead. So, which ones are safe to consume after delivery and which aren’t?
Let’s discover together, shall we?
Safe Nuts and Seeds to Consume After Childbirth
Lotus seed
You can eat lotus seeds after giving birth. They can help to replenish your body function and reduce fatigue. Not only that, but lotus seeds can also promote your body’s resistance.
Chia seed
New mummies can consume chia seeds during their postpartum period. They are great to relieve constipation after giving birth.
Canola seed
Canola seeds can be eaten after delivery. These small seeds are high in dietary fibre and vitamins. They also help to prevent constipation and promote a healthy metabolism. Canola seeds also contain minerals that help to prevent postpartum anaemia and osteoporosis. Additionally, these seeds also have therapeutic effects on postpartum lochia.
Flaxseed
Postpartum mums can consume flaxseeds. They can help to prevent stroke, cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. They are also rich in fibre and good fats. You can sprinkle some of them on your favorite yoghurt and salads.
Cumin seed
It is safe for new mummies to eat cumin seeds. These seeds have antioxidants that can improve your overall health.
Almond
Next, you can also have almonds in your confinement meal. They are rich in high-quality nutrients which are great for your healing process. Almonds are safe as long as you have no allergies to nuts.
Brazil nut
Postpartum mummies can consume brazil nuts. They are rich in selenium which helps to boost your body’s function. Not only that, but these nuts can also help you to have fewer mood disturbances after childbirth.
Chinese chestnut
Postpartum mummies can eat Chinese chestnuts after giving birth too. These nuts can help to improve your immune system and aid in your recovery. In addition, Chinese chestnuts are great for heart health too.
Pistachio
New mummies can also eat pistachios during their postpartum period. They can boost your recovery and improve your immunity. Pistachio helps restore more blood cells which are great for your postpartum body as you lost many from giving birth.
Peanut
It is safe for postpartum mums to consume peanuts. They are rich in essential nutrients which can improve your overall health. Just remember to eat them in small amounts as they can cause you to gain unnecessary weight.
Hazelnut
Go ahead and consume hazelnuts after childbirth. These nuts are great for your overall health. It also helps to quicken your recovery process after childbirth.
Pecan
You can eat pecans during your confinement period. Pecans are rich in high-quality nutrients which help to boost your physical and mental energy. They also supply nutrients that are needed for your postpartum recovery and lactation.
Walnut
New mummies can consume walnuts after delivery. Walnuts are great to promote postpartum recovery and nourish your health after childbirth.
Pumpkin seed
It is safe for mums to consume pumpkin seeds in moderation after their childbirth. These seeds are great to aid postpartum oedema and symptoms like hemorrhoids.
Consume in Moderation
Sunflower seed
After giving birth, you may continue to eat sunflower seeds. But, in moderate quantities only. They are rich in many nutrients that are high in fat which might make you irritable. New mummies should avoid processed seeds and only consume the organic ones.
Gordon Euryale seed
Postpartum mums should eat Gordon Euryale seeds in moderate quantities. They are rich in amino acids and fibre which are great to stimulate postpartum recovery and good digestion. However, remember to eat them in moderation as they might cause bloating.
Pine nut
You can eat pine nuts after giving birth but in moderate amounts only. These nuts can help to build new cells in your body as well as healthy teeth and bones. Pine nuts also contain linolenic acids which might promote the release of appetite-suppressing hormones. Hence, it might interrupt your healing process after childbirth. So, remember to eat them in moderation.
Macadamia nut
Postpartum mums can consume macadamia nuts. These nuts can help to aid your postpartum recovery. But, you need to consume them in moderation as macadamia nuts are high in calories and might cause irritability.
Cashew nut
You should eat moderate amounts of cashew nuts during your confinement period. You are safe to consume these nuts as long as you do not have any allergies to nuts.
Avoid After Childbirth
Bitter almond
You should avoid eating bitter almonds or apricot kernels after giving birth. They carry the risk of cyanide poisoning. If you still want to eat them, choose the sweeter ones and consume them in a limited amount.
Let’s eat nuts and seeds after giving birth!
Now that we know the benefits, let’s remember to always include nuts and seeds in our confinement meals. This is because they contain all the nutrients that you need after giving birth. Nuts and seeds can also help with your healing and boost your milk supply. If you do not like eating them raw, you can just mix them in your favourite salads or yoghurt for more flavour!
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/nutrition-guide-new-moms
- https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/breast-feeding-diet
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