Loss of blood and energy during childbirth leaves a new mother weak and highly susceptible to illnesses. Therefore, she has to rest and adhere to a strict diet that will help her in regaining her health and restoring her energy levels back to normal. A mother also experiences massive hormonal and physical changes that may directly affect her milk production. Most Singaporeans have a series of practices to help them deal with the post-partum problems and maintain a proper balance in the body. A usual Chinese confinement food menu in Singapore also contains foods rich in proteins, vitamins, calcium, iron, carbohydrate, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Every pregnant and new mother should take foods rich in proteins to help her in the healthy development of the foetus and quick postnatal recovery. You can get a protein fix from foods such as eggs, lean beef, fish, milk, pork, beans, and lentils among others. Some of these protein foods are also rich in calcium, vitamin B and iron, which helps in breast milk production and increases the energy levels in your body. Below are some of the reasons why a new mother should include proteins in her diet.
Proteins Raise Iron Content in the Body
Some proteins are very rich in iron, which is responsible for healthy red blood cells. Iron also helps restore blood and energy in a mother’s body lost during childbirth. Therefore, it will be ideal if you add in ingredients such as egg, chicken, oats and broccoli to a mother’s confinement diet.
Great Sources of Calcium and Vitamin D
In a mother’s confinement period, it is crucial for her to get her dietary requirements for calcium and Vitamin D. Spinach, kale, lettuce and almonds are foods high in vitamin D and protein, crucial for any new mother’s diet. It is also essential to note the importance of keeping a nutritious and balanced diet, by consuming everything in moderation.
Proteins Will Help You Fill Up Faster
High protein foods such as beef, eggs, and fish contain a hunger-fighting hormone that will fill you up faster. A new mother is always juggling between nursing and taking a good rest during the day or night. The body is also using a lot of energy to produce milk for the baby and restore her bodily functions. Therefore, it would be ideal to eat protein snacks, for example, a glass of milk or eggs before regular meals for the breast milk production.
Help with Weight Control
Women tend to gain a lot of weight after childbirth, and this may affect their emotional well-being. Proteins are lower in calories than carbs, and they will fill you up faster. A low-calorie intake will help you keep your weight in check. Some of the healthy proteins that will help you with your weight control include extra lean meat, eggs, fish, and chicken. Remember to go for the low fat or fat-free meat and dairy products to avoid a sudden weight gain.
Proteins are essential for restoring your body’s energy levels and strength. Every new mother requires an additional 71 grams of extra protein to her daily intake during the confinement period to help her with the production of milk and recovery. Most protein sources are from dairy products and animal meat, but a vegan can substitute that with pulses, legumes, and seeds that are rich in protein. Hence, it is important to incorporate a healthy amount of protein in the food for confinement mothers to ensure their health and recovery.
