GREENSBORO, N.C. — It is so important new mothers take care of themselves after giving birth and nutrition is a big part of that. Health experts say nursing mothers need to consume an additional 500 calories each day.
Lauren Mardeusz is a registered dietitian and the owner of Salt Honey + Nutrition, LLC. She said women’s bodies go through a lot after labor, delivery, and pregnancy.
“We want to focus on protein after delivery whether we’re nursing or not,” Mardeusz said. “Nutrition is really important for our bodies to heal and to provide nutrition if we’re nursing. To be the best version of ourselves for our baby we need to nourish ourselves well. That can be hard after waking up in the middle of the night with the baby, or maybe taking care of the baby and other kids at home. Feeding ourselves can sometimes feel difficult.”
Mardeusz said snacks can be a great way to get in the extra protein new mothers need throughout the day.
“I hope that really simple easy snacks, are a way to quickly grab something so you can always remember to stay nourished,” Mardeusz said.
On Saturday, January 14, Mardeusz is hosting a Postpartum Preparedness Workshop. In addition to nutrition, guest speakers will focus on mental health, postnatal fitness, lactation, and more. There will also be a prenatal yoga class. The event is from 9 am-3 pm at the Fitness & Wellness Center in Greensboro. Participants must purchase a ticket.
Mardeusz recommends these simple snacks for new moms:
- Hard Boiled Eggs
- Chocolate Covered Almonds
- Cheese Sticks
- Trails Mix
- No-Bake Protein Balls
No-Bake Protein Balls
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups oats
2/3 cup nut butter
1/2 cup honey
1 1/4 cup "mix-ins"
Mix-ins can include:
chocolate chips, dried fruit, almonds, walnuts, pecans, chia seeds, pepitas, sunflower seeds, flaxseed, puffed rice
Method:
Combine honey and nut butter, and warm in the microwave for 30 seconds.
Stir in oats until well mixed- no dry oats.
Fold in mix-ins until well combined.
roll into 1 Tablespoon balls.
Bites will keep 1 week in the fridge, and 3+ months in the freezer.