5 Health Tips for New Moms
With a new baby around, it’s easy to find your days dominated by early morning feedings, messy diapers and sleepless nights. Here are some tips that will help you adjust to being a new mother and start feeling like your old self again:
- Rest when you can. Sleep when your baby sleeps and take naps during the day. If you’re bottle-feeding, let your partner or a family member take over when possible. If you’re breastfeeding, produce a bottle of breast milk early on so that someone can provide relief in the middle of the night.
- Boost your immune system. The last thing you want to do is come down with a cold or other bug. Get a flu shot. Eat lots of lean proteins, dark greens and antioxidant-rich foods such as berries and apples. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Wash your hands often, especially after changing diapers.
- Avoid dieting. Even if you’re in a hurry to get back to your original shape, don’t skip meals or drastically cut back on calories. In fact, if you’re breastfeeding, eat an additional 500 calories a day. After you’ve fully recovered from having a baby and your doctor has given you the green light to exercise, start working on shedding extra pounds.
- Socialize. New mothers are on duty 24/7. Even with a supportive partner, you can still feel cut off from the outside world. Take some time to get out and see friends or even make new ones. Start a conversation with another mom at the mall or playground – chances are she’d love to set up a mommy play date!
- Talk to your doctor about your medications. Discuss all prescriptions, over-the-counter products and supplements, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Some medications can pass through breast milk and may not be safe for your baby.
Did you know? There are more babies born in September than any other month of the year.
