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Are cherries good postpartum?

Are Cherries Good Postpartum?
Postpartum recovery can be a challenging journey for new mothers, both physically and emotionally. Nutrition plays a crucial role in this process, and cherries, with their multitude of health benefits, are emerging as a noteworthy addition to the postpartum diet.
Nutritional Benefits of Cherries
Cherries are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which are vital for immune function and skin health. Additionally, cherries contain potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels, and fiber, which aids in digestion—a critical factor for many women experiencing postpartum digestive issues.
Moreover, cherries are known for their antioxidant properties, particularly due to compounds like anthocyanins. These antioxidants can help combat oxidative stress, which is often elevated during pregnancy and postpartum. By reducing inflammation, cherries may assist in faster recovery and overall well-being.
Mood Regulation
Postpartum mood swings and the risk of postpartum depression are significant concerns for many new mothers. Some studies suggest that the consumption of cherries could have a positive effect on mood regulation. The presence of melatonin in cherries is believed to aid sleep, which is often disrupted during the postpartum period. Improved sleep quality can have a cascading effect on mood and emotional stability.
Hydration and Weight Management
Cherries have a high water content, making them an excellent option for hydration. Staying hydrated is essential for breastfeeding mothers, as it supports milk production. Furthermore, cherries are relatively low in calories, which can be beneficial for mothers looking to manage their weight postpartum without compromising on essential nutrients.
Cautions and Considerations
While cherries are generally safe and beneficial, it is essential for new mothers to consider their overall dietary needs and any potential allergies. Additionally, those with digestive sensitivities should introduce cherries gradually to monitor how their bodies react.
Conclusion
Incorporating cherries into a postpartum diet can be a delightful and healthful choice. Their rich nutritional profile, potential mood-enhancing benefits, and hydrating properties make them a standout fruit for new mothers. As always, it’s advisable for individuals to consult with healthcare providers or nutritionists to tailor their diets to their specific health needs and conditions. With the right balance, cherries can be a sweet and nutritious part of postpartum recovery.

What foods make breastmilk gassy?

Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

Are cherries good for breast?

As noted above, while cherries contain some melatonin, sour cherries are an abundant source. Melatonin protects against breast cancer in several ways, including by reducing aromatase activity within the breast, thereby decreasing estrogen production and protecting against ER+ breast cancer.

What should a mother eat after giving birth?

A postpartum diet should include a variety of nutrients to support recovery and health: Proteins: Essential for tissue repair and muscle strength. Sources include lentils, legumes, dairy products, and nuts. Iron: Crucial for replenishing blood loss.

What fruits increase breast milk?

Apricots and dates
Eating apricots and dates can increase prolactin, which is the hormone that tells your body to produce milk. Apricots contain essential nutrients such as dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium. Fresh is better than canned. If you have to go with canned, avoid apricots packed in syrups.

Are cherries gassy for babies?

Introduce cherries individually and observe for any adverse reactions. Digestive Upset: Cherries are high in fiber, which could cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea in some infants, particularly if consumed in large amounts.

When not to eat cherries?

Sensitivities to sugar alcohols or salicylates in cherries can cause an IBS flare, gas, bloating, stomach pain and diarrhea—even in people without IBS. Sensitivities also include allergies, especially if you’re allergic to or have negative reactions to salicylate-containing products, like aspirin.

Which fruit decreases breast milk?

Chasteberry. Chasteberry has been shown to act directly on the pituitary gland, inhibiting the secretion of prolactin. 11 When prolactin levels are reduced in a lactating person, milk supply typically reduces with it. As a result, breastfeeding parents may want to avoid chasteberry supplements.

Which fruit is best for after delivery?

Some of the fruits that are the best food after delivery for Indian mothers include:

  • Bananas: Packed with potassium and energy, bananas aid muscle function and combat fatigue, making them an excellent choice for new moms.
  • Papayas: Rich in vitamins A and C, papayas promote healing and boost immunity.

Can I eat cherries while breastfeeding?

Seasonal fruits and vegetables offer a wide range of nutritional benefits for breastfeeding mothers. Strawberries, cherries, and other spring offerings are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support lactation and your overall health.

Which fruits should I avoid while breastfeeding?

You may have heard that it helps to avoid certain foods while breastfeeding – such as citrus fruits, orange juice, spices (cinnamon, curry, chili pepper), spicy food, and “gassy” veggies (cabbage, onion, broccoli, cauliflower) – but there’s no convincing scientific evidence to support that advice.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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