I think it's time to set a new standard for baby showers; let's give the onesies a break.
Now, don't get me wrong, onesies have their charm, and of course, babies need to be dressed. However, following the excitement of creating baby registries loaded with pricey gadgets and gifting new parents with adorable outfits their little ones will outgrow in the blink of an eye, we often overlook a crucial point. The ultimate gift for new parents can be the nourishing gift of wholesome meals.
When I became a mother, I realized the profound significance of feeding friends and family who had just welcomed a baby. What I had perceived as a thoughtful gesture turned into a lifeline, a most genuine and profound blessing. The old saying "it takes a village to raise a child" is particularly true, underlining the essential role that caring for the new mother plays.
The postpartum period is a delicate and transformative time for mothers, both physically and emotionally. The body undergoes numerous changes during pregnancy and childbirth, and proper nutrition is essential for recovery. Adequate nutrient intake supports the healing of tissues, replenishes energy reserves, and helps the body regain strength after the taxing process of giving birth.
Whole food nutrition is fundamental for postpartum recovery, helping to address the intricate needs of the body during this complex healing process. The importance of nutrition for new parents extends beyond merely satisfying hunger; macronutrients fuel the body, while balanced micronutrients promote a healing journey. The primary emphasis is placed on the new mother, acknowledging her distinct requirements during a time of significant transformation. By tending to her well-being, she can, in turn, focus on and nurture her newborn with the vital energy required. Choosing a balanced diet becomes an intentional act of self-care, a conscious decision to nurture both body and mind throughout the challenging yet fulfilling stages of early motherhood.
Bringing homemade meals or organizing a meal train to offer support to new parents are wonderful options. A meal train is a collaborative effort where friends and family sign up to provide homemade meals on a scheduled basis. This collective effort not only lightens the load for the new parents but also strengthens the bonds within the community, creating a network of support that extends beyond the confines of the kitchen.
Here is one of my favorite nourishing soups for a mother's recovery. This Chicken and Lentil Soup was designed to nourish and restore during the challenging postpartum phase. This flavourful dish not only supports physical healing but also provides a feeling of comfort and self-care for the new mother.
Chicken & Lentil Soup
4 servings
2 tbsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 cup Red Onions (large, chopped)
1/2 bulb Fennel (medium, chopped)
1 cup Carrots (sliced)
1 tsp Turmeric
2 tsps Ginger (finely chopped)
0 Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
7 cups Bone Broth
1/4 cup Quinoa (dry, rinsed)
1 lb Chicken Breast, Cooked (shredded)
1 cup Lentils (from the can, rinsed and drained)
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, fennel, and the carrots for six minutes, stirring often. Add the turmeric and ginger, mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for five minutes. Add the cooked chicken and lentils and cook for another 10 minutes.
Let it cool down before portioning. Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.
And if cooking isn't your thing, no worries! There is various local businesses that specialize in providing nutritious fresh and frozen "ready-to-serve" meals for those who may not have the time or interest in preparing meals.
Nurturing the new mother is a heartfelt initiative that goes beyond a simple act of kindness. Providing nutritious meals to a recovering mother is a tangible way to support her physical and emotional well-being during the postpartum period. By focusing on a well-rounded diet that includes essential nutrients, you contribute to her recovery, energy levels, and overall resilience as she embraces the transformative journey of motherhood.
Isabelle Bulota is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Recipe Developer, and Food Photographer, passionately navigates the challenges of motherhood with two vibrant teenagers. As the proud founder of Isabelle Bulota Family Nutrition Practitioner, she guides families on their journey through personalized nutrition counselling.
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