The holiday season can be a joyful time, but it can also be overwhelming, especially for postpartum moms dealing with pelvic health concerns like leaky bladders, persistent pain, and weak core strength.
If you find yourself slipping into unhealthy habits, don’t worry—I've got your back with these thoughtful tips to help you stay healthy and energized throughout the festivities.
-
Don’t Skip Meals: Fuel Your Body, Support Your Healing
As tempting as it might be to skip a meal before a holiday party, it’s crucial to keep your body nourished, especially when you're recovering from childbirth. Skipping meals can lead to overeating, and as a new mom, your body needs balanced nutrition to heal and thrive. Consider adjusting your daily calories, eating lighter meals earlier in the day, so you can enjoy your treats guilt-free without compromising your health goals. -
Bring a Healthy Dish to Share
Taking a healthy dish with you is a great way to ensure you have something nourishing to enjoy at gatherings. Plus, it’s a thoughtful gesture to relieve some of the stress for your host. A healthy, delicious dish that you can enjoy without hesitation is a win-win situation. Look for easy recipes that incorporate nutritious ingredients that support your pelvic health and overall well-being. -
Choose Your Indulgences Wisely
It’s okay to indulge, but let’s be honest—some treats just aren’t worth it. If a holiday snack doesn’t truly satisfy your taste buds, don’t waste your precious calories. It’s better to savor something mind-blowingly delicious than to mindlessly nibble on treats that won’t make you feel good afterward. -
Drink Mindfully and Stay Hydrated
Fancy cocktails, sugary drinks, and spiked eggnog can be a major source of hidden calories. Opt for lower-calorie choices like a light beer, wine, or even a refreshing vodka soda. Not only will this help you manage your calories, but staying hydrated will also support your body’s recovery from childbirth, especially if you’re experiencing urinary incontinence or pelvic floor concerns. -
Mind Your Second Helpings
It’s easy to get carried away with second servings, especially when surrounded by delicious food. But it’s important to be selective and make sure that the second helping is truly worth it. Focus on quality, not quantity—indulge in your favorites, but don't let the moment derail your health goals. Remember, the short-lived satisfaction isn’t worth feeling sluggish later, especially when your body needs energy to recover. -
Set Boundaries with Food Pushers
Whether it’s Aunt Mildred offering fruitcake or a friend urging you to try another dessert, it's essential to stick to your boundaries. Politely but firmly say no to foods that don’t align with your health goals. Your wellness is your priority, and it’s okay to decline extra servings or foods that will compromise your recovery. -
Move, Rest, and Prioritize Self-Care
Amid the holiday chaos, don’t forget about your physical and emotional well-being. Short bursts of exercise can help strengthen your core, support your pelvic floor, and improve your overall mood. Additionally, prioritize rest. When you’re healing postpartum, sleep is vital to restoring your energy and making healthy decisions. Taking care of your body in these ways will set the foundation for long-term recovery and vitality.