5 Must Have Food For New Moms

During pregnancy you may have gained some excess weight. And you might want to shed those extra calories after delivering the baby. But, did you realize there is something more paramount than focusing on weight loss? Yes, the diet – understanding what to eat and what not to is important. It not only helps you regain your much-needed energy levels but also pass on the nutrients to your baby.

# Low-fat dairy products

Dairy products, whether milk, cheese or yogurt, form an important part of the diet during breastfeeding. They are an excellent source of calcium, protein, and B vitamins. Your baby absorbs calcium from the breastmilk for bone development. Therefore, have calcium-rich foods to replace the lost calcium in your body. Include three cups of dairy every day in your diet.

# Lean meat

Take lean meats as they are rich in iron, protein and vitamin B12, and help boost your energy levels. Lean meat is useful for you to make up for the draining energy levels while breastfeeding.

# Pulses

Pulses are a primary element in a well-balanced diet. They are good sources of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You can have green and red grams by boiling and seasoning them, or halwa so that they are easily digestible and tasty to eat. Pulses also prevent fat from accumulating in the body.

# Green vegetables

They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron, and dietary calcium. Green veggies are also low in calories and rich in heart-healthy antioxidants, which help in losing post-pregnancy weight. Leafy greens such as spinach, broccoli, and Swiss chard contain abundant amounts of vitamin A that are good for you and your baby. Eat more of these leafy greens, beans, pointed gourd (parwal), apple gourd (tinda), lotus stem, and other such seasonal veggies.

# Brown rice

You may be thinking of cutting down the carbs to lose weight. But drastic changes in your weight can affect your milk production and make you feel sluggish. Choose whole grain carbs such as brown rice to boost your energy levels. They provide the you and your little ones with calories.