August is a special month as we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week. From pregnancy to two years of age, known as the first thousand days, you’re laying foundations for your child’s lifelong health.
Hydration is really important.
You need more than ever before. This time is important to nourish your body with warming soups and stews. Add hydration salts to your water and consume healthy fats like avocado and olive oil. Nuts and seeds are incredibly important for their nutritional content. If your nutritional intake is low, your body draws from its own reserves, even from your bones, just to produce milk. That’s why it’s so important to stay nourished and hydrated.
Let’s talk about formula. There’s a lot on the market and it can be confusing and difficult to pinpoint what’s going to be the best for your baby. If you have food intolerances, then it’s quite possible your baby may have the same. Choosing a less reactive formula, such as one made from goat’s milk, might be a better choice for your baby.
Probiotics
Probiotics are important not only for mum but bub. Breastfed babies have a gut microbiome that is Bifidobacterium. This helps build a strong immunity and reduce risk of illness. For those that are formula feeding, you include probiotics for your baby’s gut microbiome that will support a healthy, diverse microbiome as well as reducing digestive discomfort and infant colic. Speak to us in store about the right one for you and your baby.
Mastitis & Breast care
There is a particular probiotic strain researched to support healthy microbiome and reduce the symptoms of mastitis. Cracked nipples are very common, so support your skin with hydrating creams, aloe vera, marshmellow and natural plant oils. It’s not just about supplements though. There are products available in store that can support your nipple health when you are on your breastfeeding journey. It comes with challenges, but with the right nutrition and holistic support, it can be a truly rewarding journey.
Herbs & Nutrition
Raspberry leaf is a great herb that’s been traditionally used to support breastfeeding and birth recovery. You can begin taking raspberry leaf during your second trimester. It’s called a uterine tonic and it can help your contractions during labour as well as birth recovery. Galactogogs are wonderful herbs that can support your breastfeeding journey. Lesser thistle and fenugreek are traditionally used to support breast milk production.
If there’s one product to have in the cupboard, it’s the Super Greens powder. Simply blend it with water and it’s the easiest way to boost your nutrition. Packed with fibre and antioxidants, it’s a plethora of fruit and vegetables. Protein is really important to meet your nutritional needs, to help you feel fuller for longer, but also to help make rich, nourishing milk for your baby
Remember, it’s important to seek professional healthcare advice before consuming any supplements to ensure they’re right for you. There are many remedies to help with all symptoms you can face as a new mum and we want you to know that you are not alone. Post-partum hormone fluctuations are very real – so don’t be afraid to ask for help. So come and speak to one of our naturopaths. We’d love to support you on this journey.
Cheree Sheldon
Adv Dip Naturopathy, Adv Dip Western Herbal Medicine & Adv Dip Nutritional Medicine
*Kunara Members SAVE 20% off Vitamins & Supplements on the first Wednesday of the month.
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