New mothers require good nutrition to support the healing and recovery of the body after childbirth. For mothers who choose to breastfeed, diet is even more important as it has a direct impact on the baby’s health and growth.
There are 5 essential nutrients for mothers after childbirth:
Iron
If the mother is breastfeeding, the mother’s iron storage supplies the baby with iron for proper thyroid development and function.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is needed for proper red blood cell expansion, energy production and shaping of DNA. Babies with inadequate B12 levels are often more easily distracted and have an increased risk of poor brain growth, developmental delays or even failure. The best sources are meat such as shellfish, tuna, liver, beef and salmon. Mothers can also get Vitamin B12 from dairy and fortified cereals.
DHA, an Omega-3 Fatty Acid
Infants with high concentrations of DHA in breast milk have been shown to experience better brain development and vision. Mothers should continue to take DHA supplements after pregnancy as most do not receive enough in their diets.
Choline
Choline is the same nutrient as folic acid, which is very important for brain development. The need for choline increases during pregnancy and is highest for breastfeeding mothers. The best food sources of choline are eggs and organ meats such as liver.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supports the immune system, brain and nervous system, while reducing the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. The best food sources of Vitamin D are fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, liver, fortified dairy, orange juice and egg yolks.
Best postpartum vitamins for mums
In addition to natural food sources, mothers can get a variety of postpartum vitamins that are readily available in the market.
Usually, the contents of these pills are complete with a variety of important nutrients vital for mother and baby.
Here are some of the best postpartum vitamins you can get on the market
#1 Postnatal Vitamin Care By Premama
Premama products are specially formulated to address maternity malnutrition, and they meet the unique needs of new mothers.
These postpartum vitamins include Saffserene, a patented and clinically-proven ingredient, which improves mood and reduces symptoms of postpartum depression. PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) is to fight the ‘baby brain’ and improve focus, memory and alertness.
It also contains all the premium essential nutrients to replenish and support a woman’s body both after childbirth and during breastfeeding.
What we like:
- Improves mood affected after childbirth
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
- Relieves postpartum stress
- Improves cognition and energy
- Supports breastfeeding and nutritional needs
#2 NATURELO Postnatal Pregnancy Vitamin for Breastfeeding Mothers
This Naturelo product is designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of breastfeeding mothers, in fact, the formula meets 100% of the daily requirements for essential vitamins such as Vitamins A, C, D3, E, K2, and B complex, as well as minerals such as Iodine, Zinc, and Selenium.
The postpartum lactation formula includes a blend of organic herbs to support healthy milk production, including Fenugreek, Blessed Thistle, Fennel, Stinging Nettle, and Alfalfa.
What we like:
- Natural minerals
- Promotes milk production
- Easily digested and absorbed
- Non-GMO
- Soy-free
- Gluten-free
- No yeast and gelatin
- Free of dairy, sugar, preservatives and dyes
- Vegetarian
#3 BLACKMORES Pregnancy & Breast-feeding Formula
The Blackmores Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Gold Formula is specially formulated to provide the essential nutrients women need before and during pregnancy, as well as while breastfeeding.
Two capsules a day provides the necessary vitamins for pregnant women, plus minerals and oils essential for the baby’s health.
There are 15 different types of nutrients in a single capsule, including folic acid, iron, iodine, Omega-3 DHA, natural beta-carotene and other vitamins and minerals.
What we like:
- 15 types of nutrients in a single capsule
- Contains folic acid, iron, iodine, and others
- Contains Omega-3 DHA
- Natural beta-carotene instead of Vitamin A
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