Previously, we discovered which fruits are safe for your confinement and which aren’t. Now, it is time to explore vegetables!
Vegetables are one of the superfoods that you must consume after giving birth. New mummies need to try to make half of their plate vegetables or fruits. This is as they are packed with essential nutrients that can hasten your recovery process. They can also improve your overall health and minimise the risk of chronic diseases. So, which vegetables should you eat and which to avoid during the postpartum period?
Let’s discover together, shall we?
Best Vegetables to Eat After Giving Birth
Carrot
Postpartum mummies can eat carrots. They contain numerous health benefits for your recovery. They are rich in antioxidants that help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Carrots promote cell division and rejuvenate the collagen in your skin! They are great to support oil production in your skin too. These health benefits are great to delay your eyesight deterioration and the skin’s aging process.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are great snacks or thirst-quenchers for new mummies! They can promote iron absorption which can heal you from iron loss during childbirth. It is also good to keep you cool.
Green capsicum
New mummies can eat green capsicum after giving birth. They are rich in iron and vitamin C that help to prevent postpartum anaemia and improve calcium absorption.
Kangkung
Kangkung or water spinach is a really popular Malaysian dish. It is high in nutrients that are essential for new mummies. This green has iron which aids you to replenish strength and prevent postpartum anemia.
Lotus root
Postpartum mummies can eat lotus root. Lotus root is high in fibre which improves your bowel movements after giving birth! One less problem to worry about!
Onion
Onions are one of the main essences in Malaysian dishes. But is it safe to consume them? Yes, they are postpartum-friendly! They have a natural anti-cancer substance known as quercetin which can help reload your strength and prevent cell mutations.
Bottle gourd
It is safe to eat bottle gourds after childbirth. They are high in fibre which can help with digestion. Bottle gourds also contain essential nutrients that help to boost your immune system. Additionally, they are also high in vitamin C which can help you upgrade your virus resistance.
Porcini mushroom
In addition, mummies can eat porcini mushrooms after giving birth. They are high in amino acids and have anti-inflammatory properties. Just make sure to properly cook them before consumption.
Potato
Potatoes are beneficial for your recovery process. They are a great source of minerals and energy which can help to hasten your healing process.
Red cabbage
Go ahead and eat red cabbage during the postpartum period. Red cabbage has phytoncide which helps to improve digestion and nutrient absorption and immune system. However, it is quite “gassy” so make sure to control your amount.
Tomato
Mummies can consume tomatoes after their childbirth. Tomatoes can hasten your healing process and boost your immune system. Not to forget, tomatoes can also lessen your stretch marks and pigmentation! They can also help you with the absorption of lycopene. You need to remember to cook tomatoes for a long time or eat them with other healthy fats.
Celery
Celery is high in fibre and iron which can help to replenish your strength and prevent postpartum constipation. If you are eating it raw, just remember to wash it thoroughly beforehand.
Zucchini
Of course, new mummies can eat zucchini during their postpartum period. It is very nutritious and rich in carbohydrates and protein, which can help to recharge your energy and prevent postpartum anemia after giving birth.
Asparagus
You can eat asparagus after giving birth but in limited quantities. Asparagus is rich in dietary fibre, minerals, and vitamins which keep you healthy. It can also help to ease your constipation. Just be careful with this green. As it might cause bloating gas.
Consume in Moderation
Sea lettuce
Postpartum mummies can consume sea lettuce. As it helps with lochia and toxins, But, you have to eat them in moderation. This is because sea lettuce is rich-iodine which can cause certain risks.
Bamboo shoots
Bamboo shoots are safe to eat during your postpartum period. They are rich in fibre which helps to prevent postpartum constipation. Bamboo shoots contain minerals that help to hasten your body’s recovery and prevent from any infections.
Vegetables to Avoid After Childbirth
Bitter melon
You should avoid eating bitter melon after giving birth. Bitter melon might cause your uterus to contract more which helps to remove lochia. But, it can cause you some digestive problems.
Eggplant
Furthermore, mummies cannot eat eggplant. They contain tyramine which can cause high blood pressure. They are also rich in potassium which can interrupt your electrolyte balance. So, it is unsafe for you. Additionally, it can also affect your breast milk and can upset your baby’s digestive health.
Aloe vera
Postpartum mums should avoid eating aloe vera. Aloe vera is high in laxatives which can cause an electrolytes imbalance in your intestines and digestive problems.
Consume safe vegetables during postpartum period!
In conclusion, new mummies need to consume the best vegetables to quicken their healing process. Maintaining a healthy diet after your childbirth might be hard, but it is not impossible! You can still have your favourite snacks, just remember to limit them.
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/nutrition-guide-new-moms
- https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/breast-feeding-diet
Click here to read about the pros of having vegetables in your diet.
Do also check out which herbs are safe to consume during your postpartum and which you should avoid here.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!