7 Healthy Lifestyle Choices for New Mommies

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by babygatesplus.com

Pregnancy is no joke. This is the time when a woman’s body goes through several changes. There is morning sickness, fatigue, stress, food cravings, back pain, and more.

The journey doesn’t end here, though. Once the baby is born, you receive a host of new anxieties, challenges, and responsibilities. And let’s not forget the lack of sleep, postpartum hormones, and physical exhaustion that can add fuel to the fire.

Due to the effort it takes to take care of an infant, many new mommies tend to channel all their energy into their babies and overlook their own health, which can prolong and exacerbate many health issues. Therefore, new moms must prioritize their physical and mental health by making healthy lifestyle decisions and seeking support wherever necessary. Fortunately, prioritizing your health as a new mom doesn’t have to be an exhausting and impossible task.

Below are some health tips that can help you to enhance your energy levels, decrease your stress, lead a better life, and, best of all, become a better parent:

1. Begin with your mental health.

Every new mother should try to get as much rest as possible and seek assistance from friends or family if she feels overwhelmed. She can go through “baby blues” 2-4 days after giving birth due to the hormonal changes that occur after childbirth. Things can get even more intense and depressing if medical malpractice occurs during childbirth.

One of the most common medical malpractice is Erb’s Palsy, which is the excessive twisting and pulling of the baby’s neck and head. In this scenario, mothers must know their legal options and rights and seek compensation. Filing a lawsuit can be a viable option to seek justice and prevent similar incidents from happening. After all, many examples of trial verdicts resulted in great compensation for parents and families affected by Erb’s Palsy. The Cerebral Palsy Guide is a great source of information on Erb’s Palsy and other types of medical malpractice. It was founded to educate families on cerebral palsy, increase awareness, and support children, parents, and caregivers impacted by the condition.

Coming back to our primary discussion, mental health, it is common for a mother to experience strong emotions or the desire to cry for no apparent cause or for things that may appear insignificant to others. Some of the best ways to stay mentally healthy are to make time for what you love, take regular breaks, rest up, and connect with people who make you feel whole and happy.

2. Eat a balanced diet.

Eating a balanced diet is crucial for new mothers because it can affect their breastfeeding journey and postpartum recovery. After delivery, the body needs a balance of nutrients to help it recover and maintain milk production. The vital elements required for postpartum recovery and lactation can be supplied by a well-balanced diet that includes lean proteins, complex carbs, healthy fats, and lots of fruits and vegetables. 

Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding nutritional deficiencies, which can harm a person’s general health and happiness, are two additional benefits of proper nutrition for new mothers. A balanced diet can also encourage healthy eating habits in children from an early age by serving as a good role model for nutrition and well-being.

3. Exercise often.

Regular exercise benefits new mothers by enhancing their mood, making them feel stronger and more energized after giving birth, and lowering their stress levels. 

Light exercise can also help maintain a healthy weight, improve sleep quality, and advance cardiovascular health. Endorphins are mood-enhancing chemicals that can help fight postpartum depression and blues through physical activity. Low-impact activities like walking, yoga, swimming, and Pilates are suitable for new mothers to perform with their babies, fostering family togetherness and supporting a healthy lifestyle. 

However, it’s crucial to begin gradually and build up intensity and duration over time as the body recovers and acclimates to the requirements of motherhood.

4. Practice self-care.

Self-care is crucial for maintaining good health, particularly if you’re a new mother. To experience more holistic well-being, you don’t need to spend much time at the spa or go to the gym frequently. Try to squeeze in a few weekly minutes to do something you like. You can fit more self-care pursuits into your calendar as your child gets older. Start at the newborn stage by engaging in a few activities that give you a sense of renewal. After their child falls asleep, some mothers enjoy taking a nightly bath or having their partner give them a massage once a week.

5. Avoid using social media.

While you feed your baby or put them to sleep, you might browse through social media. Comparing yourself to other mothers could make you feel unworthy. Inform your friends and family that you are taking a digital detox until the baby is a little older. They can contact or text you if they want to check in on you or see the baby. You’ll have more time to rest if you spend less time commenting and uploading.

Additionally, you’ll have more time for self-care. Consider meeting up with a buddy with a newborn if you need more social interaction. A moms’ group is another option. There are baby and mom clubs for every passion, including support groups and workout gatherings.

6. Don’t hesitate to ask for support.

Being a new mom can sometimes get a little lonely. Using community services, family, and friends can help new moms feel less isolated and give them the emotional and practical assistance they need. A great approach to meeting other new mothers, exchanging experiences, and obtaining insightful advice is through joining a support group for new mothers, taking parenting classes, and participating in online communities.

7. Get enough sleep.

Due to caring for a newborn, new moms frequently experience sleep deprivation, which can be detrimental to their physical and emotional health. Rest is crucial for mood, energy, and postpartum healing. Prioritizing sleep means taking naps when the baby naps, setting up a sleep-friendly atmosphere, and developing a sleep schedule. Hitting the hay simultaneously every night, limiting electronics before bed, and establishing a calming environment can all be part of a healthy sleep regimen.

Conclusion

As you navigate the challenges and joys of parenthood, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for new moms. The tips mentioned in this article can help you stay on top of your health, cope with stress, and care for your newborn more attentively. Furthermore, as with any lifestyle change, starting small and making long-term, sustainable adjustments is important. By making healthy lifestyle choices, new mothers can have a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling experience of motherhood.