Foods To Prevent Postnatal Constipation

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Pregnancy in itself is a phenomenon that changes the biology of a woman's body. Postpartum or postnatal care is of utmost importance. Postnatal constipation is quite common since the drugs used in labour can contribute to slow digestion. Exerting more pressure to pass out can be really painful during the postnatal stage.

When you are breastfeeding, preventing or getting rid of constipation is of more concern because many of the usual solutions to the problem aren't good for your breastfeeding baby. Although the ancient practices of postpartum care forbids taking anything except milk and liquid food, present day conditions demand more nutrition for a nursing mother.

Breastfeeding mothers need to follow a healthy postnatal diet to stay healthy and get the essential daily nutrients. Having something unhealthy can lead to several health problems including constipation. Water-rich foods for example can be of great help. They digest easily, keeps you hydrated and flushes out easily. This prevents the chances of suffering from constipation.

Here are a few foods that women in postnatal stage can eat to promote digestion and prevent constipation-

Dill Leaves

A curry or soup made out of dill leaves is not only efficient in in increasing breast milk, but also ease digestion, promote bowel movement and hence prevent constipation.

Spinach

Usually a soup or salad is given to the breastfeeding mother to enhance vitamins and digestion. This green vegetable is easy to digest and also cleanses the system.

Jeera and ghee

This is an extremely efficient and the best home remedy for breastfeeding mothers to prevent constipation. 2 teaspoons of Jeera/cumin is roasted in a teaspoon of ghee and is powdered. Mix with rice to ensure proper digestion ease constipation.

Fruits

There couldn't be anything more fibrous than banana and berries. These, if taken in the right proportion for breakfast or as a snack is an excellent digestive catalyst.

Amla juice

Half a glass of amla juice is known to be very effective in preventing constipation among breastfeeding mothers. It regulates bowel movements andcureschronic constipation and piles.

Cereals

A bowl of whole/multi-grain cereals with nuts are a healthy and a fat-free option for breastfeeding mothers to prevent constipation.

Dry fruits and nuts

At snack time, reach for a handful of raisins, dates or dried cranberries or apples, or add a spoonful of fiber-rich flaxseed oil to a fruit with yogurt.

Hydrating yourself

Since breastfeeding mothers tend to feel thirsty due to breastfeeding, it is advisable to drink at least 3-4 glasses of water and 2 glasses of coconut water a day, this will keep the body hydrated and ensure smooth bowel movement.

Cooked oatmeal

Oatmeal has a high fiber content and when cooked, it turns soft and easier to digest. It eases constipation by enabling proper digestion.

Yogurt

Yogurt is not only a stool softener but also has the probiotics essential for keeping Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) away. Half a cup of yogurt in room temperature can be given to breastfeeding mothers to prevent constipation.