Before having a baby, your mind will likely race with all the “essentials” you think you’ll need. Do babies need shoes? (Nope! Their tiny toes are just for show at this point.) Will you need one of those donut pillows to sit on after labor? (For me, not at all—those things were not the lifesaver I imagined.) Should you plan on a home food delivery service? (Not if you have a partner who meal-preps like a champ. Shoutout to my husband for filling the freezer with meals that were lifesaving when sleep was nonexistent!)
But there’s one thing that often flies under the radar for expecting moms: how you’re going to recover and balance your hormones after giving birth.
Let’s be real: postpartum recovery isn’t just about catching up on sleep (though, yes, please). Your body has gone through an incredible, life-altering event. Blood loss, healing tissues, and hormone fluctuations are part of the journey. Focusing on the right foods during this time can make a world of difference.
Here are a few nutrient-packed powerhouses to keep on your radar:
- Salmon: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps fight postpartum blues and supports your brain (which needs all the love it can get during those foggy newborn days).
- Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale): These are rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium—key nutrients for rebuilding strength, aiding in milk production, and replenishing what your body has lost.
- Eggs: A simple, versatile food full of protein, choline, and vitamin D to help with healing and energy.
- These foods don’t just taste great; they work hard to help your body bounce back. They’re like little cheerleaders for your hormones, energy levels, and overall healing.
So, while you’re preparing for the arrival of your little one—stocking up on diapers and cozy onesies—don’t forget to think about you, mama. Your recovery matters.
We’ve all been there—those days when your mood is swinging like a pendulum, your energy is in the negatives, and “that time of the month” feels like it’s sneaking up on you, ready to wreak havoc. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and let’s be honest, sometimes it feels like your body is running the show.
But what if I told you there’s a simple, natural way to support your hormones and take back some control?
Yep, I’m talking about essential oils.
I know, I know—essential oils can seem like a trendy buzzword. But hear me out. These plant-based powerhouses have been used for centuries for a reason—they work. When it comes to hormones, a few specific oils can do wonders for balance, stress relief, and overall well-being.
My Top 3 Go-To Oils for Hormone Support
- Clary Sage: This oil is a game-changer for hormone health. Clary sage is known to help balance estrogen levels, which can be a lifesaver if your hormones feel like they’re running wild. Whether it’s that time of the month or just daily hormonal ups and downs, this oil can offer some much-needed support.
- Lavender: If you’re feeling stressed (and who isn’t?), lavender is your best friend. Stress can wreak havoc on your hormones, and lavender helps calm your mind and body, reducing cortisol levels. It’s also fantastic for sleep, which is essential for overall health.
- Frankincense: This oil is a multi-tasker! It promotes emotional balance, reduces inflammation, and supports hormone health. Think of it as the glue that holds everything together when your body feels out of sync.
You can diffuse these oils, apply them topically (diluted with a carrier oil), or even add a few drops to a warm bath for a relaxing, hormone-supporting soak.
If you’ve been looking for a way to feel more in control of your hormones—without turning to chemicals or invasive treatments—these oils might just be the natural solution you’ve been searching for.
Ready to try them? Trust me, they’ve been a game-changer for me, and I can’t wait to hear how they work for you!
PS - I only recommend using Young Living essential oils!
Traditional eggnog is made with eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream, which unfortunately won’t work for those of us avoiding conventional dairy. I’ve been wanting to make some that tasted good and even had some nutritional value, so we're giving this one a try!
Ingredients
- 1 13.5 oz can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk, or dairy free milk of choice
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 5 egg yolks
- 1 tsp nutmeg, + more for garnish
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup Flor de Cana dark rum
- Dairy free whipped cream, for topping, optional
Instructions
- Add the egg yolk and maple syrup to a medium bowl and using a hand mixer, mix on high until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- To a medium saucepan over medium high heat, add the coconut milk, almond milk, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Cook while whisking often until the mixture just begins to simmer.
- Very slowly pour the milk mixture into the bowl with the egg yolks and maple syrup while mixing with the hand mixer. It is important to go slow while continuously mixing to temper the eggs. We don't want them to scramble / cook!
- Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer back into the pot on the stove. Whisk constantly over medium low heat for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and add the vanilla and the rum. Whisk to combine. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Top with dairy free whipped cream, and garnish with a cinnamon stick, and more grated nutmeg. Enjoy!
Derived from Mary's Whole Life
I love buckwheat. I had it has a child with a yummy dish (Kasha Varnishkes) that is a traditional Eastern European dish (these were my Ashkenazi Jewish relatives) My aunt liked to add in beets which I also enjoyed! this recipe is more of a breakfast one but also super delicious! you can add in cabbage for some extra gut support or keep it simple like this recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup Buckwheat Groats
- 1 tbsp Avocado Oil
- 4 Eggs
- 2 cups Baby Spinach
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized pot, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the buckwheat. Cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- While the buckwheat is cooking, heat a pan over medium heat and add the oil. Once warm, crack the eggs in the pan and cook until the whites are set and the yolk is cooked to your liking.
- Divide the cooked buckwheat and fried eggs between bowls. Top with spinach, salt and pepper. Enjoy!
As busy moms, we’re constantly juggling the never-ending to-do list, from kids' activities to work and everything in between. It’s easy to feel like we don’t have time to focus on our own health—especially when it comes to gut health. But here’s the truth: taking care of your gut doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. You can incorporate simple, nourishing snacks that support your digestion and keep your energy levels steady throughout the day.
Here are some of my favorite gut-healthy snacks that are easy to whip up and perfect for those on-the-go moments:
1. Organic Yogurt with Chia Seeds and Berries
Yogurt is packed with probiotics, which help promote healthy digestion by supporting the good bacteria in your gut. To take it up a notch, toss in some chia seeds for added fiber, which keeps things moving, and top it off with antioxidant-rich berries. This combo is a delicious way to keep your gut happy and your energy steady.
2. Apple Slices with Almond Butter and Cinnamon
Apples (especially with the skin on) are rich in fiber, which is key for digestion. Pairing them with almond butter gives you healthy fats, while cinnamon adds flavor and an anti-inflammatory boost. It’s a simple, tasty snack that hits the sweet spot while also being great for your gut.
3. Homemade Trail Mix with Walnuts, Pumpkin Seeds, and Dark Chocolate
Walnuts and pumpkin seeds are high in omega-3s and fiber—two nutrients that your gut loves! And let’s not forget about dark chocolate, which contains polyphenols that act as probiotics, feeding the good bacteria in your digestive system. This trail mix is easy to prep and can be stored in small bags, making it a perfect snack to grab as you head out the door.
4. Carrot Sticks with Hummus
Carrots are a great source of prebiotic fiber, which helps feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Pair them with hummus for a dose of healthy fats and protein that will keep you fuller for longer. This snack is not only good for your gut, but it’s also super easy to pack in lunchboxes or munch on while multitasking.
5. Kefir Smoothie with Spinach, Banana, and Flaxseeds
Kefir is a probiotic powerhouse, full of good bacteria that support digestion. Blend it with spinach for extra fiber, a banana for prebiotics, and flaxseeds for those gut-loving omega-3s. You can also swap out the kefir for organic coconut yogurt if you prefer a dairy-free option!
With these easy snack ideas, you can support your gut health while still managing the chaos of motherhood. You don’t have to sacrifice your well-being just because life gets busy. These snacks will keep you fueled, nourished, and feeling your best!
So the next time you're hungry, skip the processed snacks and give one of these gut-friendly options a try. Your body (and your gut) will thank you!
