Looking after your own health as well as caring for a newborn isn’t easy! We spoke with registered dietitian, Anita Mirchandani, who’s just had her second child, on post-partum nourishment.

Splendid Spoon: Hi Anita! Congrats on your second baby! How are you feeling?

Anita Mirchandani: I’m feeling happy! Life with baby and a toddler is a big adjustment, but we’re taking it day by day.

SS: How do you use Splendid Spoon’s meals during this postpartum period?

AM: Splendid meals are helpful because time is of the essence right now! Being able to reach in the fridge and heat up a stew or soup is so amazing! Plus, I know that the recipes are nutritious and hydrating. If you’re breastfeeding, it’s helpful to consume water-rich foods.

SS: What nutrients, vitamins, and minerals should new moms focus on?

AM: As you transition out of pregnancy into postpartum, it’s advised to continue your prenatals. My suggestion is to focus on iron (for energy), protein (to repair and rebuild), magnesium (for healing and recovery) and fiber (to help ease constipation). So, my go-to foods right now are oats, lean meats and fish, apples, bananas, berries, spinach, root vegetables, and beets.

SS: Can you do a Cleanse postpartum?

AM: I wouldn’t suggest cleansing immediately. Instead, focus on eating for healing and recovery. However, once you and your baby are in a groove, and you’re ready to focus on your own health (whatever that means for you), it could be worth exploring the Splendid Cleanse Day. Every person experiences different outcomes post-pregnancy, so it just depends on you and your body.

SS: There’s a lot of focus on “bouncing back” after giving birth. What is your approach to nurturing your body and feeling your best?

AM: For me, until I stop nursing or pumping, my body retains all my fat. I don’t drop a pound, despite my healthy eating and recovery walking, which is frustrating! So I’ve learnt to accept that it’s necessary to absorb what’s important in this phase — let it soak in so that you get through it calmly and without anxiety. Nurture your body by eating nutritiously, getting rest, and helping yourself heal.

SS: Do you have any go-to postpartum meals?

AM: I love anything with oats. I found that they’ve not only helped ease my body back into routine post-labor, but they’ve also stimulated my breast milk.

SS: As a registered dietitian and mom to two, what one piece of advice do you want to give all new moms?

AM: Take your time! With a newborn, it’s important to take it day by day. You want to do so much, but it can’t all happen at once.