by Sonal Patel | Oct 11, 2023 | Blog
As a new mother, it’s common to experience a range of postpartum health concerns including fatigue, anxiety, and digestive issues. To address these issues, many new moms turn to supplements. While supplements can be helpful in some cases, relying solely on isolated nutrients can do more harm than good. A better approach may be an ayurvedic diet. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the importance of balance in all aspects of life, including diet. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of an ayurvedic diet for postpartum health and provide some helpful tips for getting started.
A More Holistic Approach Tailored to the Individual
One of the biggest benefits of an ayurvedic diet is that it provides a more holistic approach to health. Rather than addressing isolated nutrients, ayurveda focuses on bringing balance to the body and mind through food. An ayurvedic diet is customized to suit the unique needs of the individual, taking into account their dosha (individual body type) and any specific health concerns. This tailored approach helps to address postpartum health issues at their root cause, allowing for long-term relief.
An Emphasis on Whole Foods
An ayurvedic diet emphasizes whole foods that are fresh and in season. These nutrient-dense foods help to nourish the body and bring balance without relying on supplements. Focusing on locally grown produce
Eating Fresh, Seasonal Foods
Another benefit of an ayurvedic diet is that it places a strong emphasis on eating fresh, seasonal foods. This means that the diet changes with the seasons, providing the body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy throughout the year. This approach is particularly beneficial for new mothers, who are often in need of extra nourishment after giving birth.
Ayurvedic Herbs and Spices Provide Micronutrients
Ayurvedic herbs and spices are an important part of the diet, providing the body with the micronutrients it needs to stay healthy. For example, turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory, while cumin aids in digestion. By incorporating these herbs and spices into their diet, new mothers can address specific health concerns while also supporting their overall health and wellbeing.
Problems with Relying on Supplements
While supplements can be helpful in some cases, there are some downsides to relying solely on isolated nutrients. For one, quality and safety regulations for supplements are limited. It can also be difficult to know which supplements to take and in what doses. Additionally, supplements don’t address the importance of lifestyle factors like emotional health, exercise, and sleep.
Tips for Getting Started
If you’re interested in trying an ayurvedic diet, there are a few steps you can take to get started. Firstly, it’s important to find out your dosha (individual body type), as this will help you tailor the diet to suit your own needs. You can do this by taking
Sample Ayurvedic Meals and Recipes for New Moms
Creating an ayurvedic meal plan can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some dosha-specific meal ideas with their benefits:
Vata: quinoa porridge with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger (warming and grounding)
Pitta: steamed vegetables with coconut oil and cilantro (cooling and cleansing)
Kapha: lentil soup with turmeric and cumin (warming and stimulating)
For an easy recipe idea, try this kichari recipe:
1 cup brown rice
1 cup yellow mung dal
3 cups water
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon ghee
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon coriander powder
½ teaspoon rock salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Combine rice, mung dal, water, and turmeric in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice and dal are tender (about 30 minutes). In a separate pan, melt ghee and add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and coriander powder. Cook until fragrant, then add to the kichari. Add rock salt and chopped cilantro and serve.
Lifestyle Tips to Support the Ayurvedic Diet
In addition to changing their diet, new mothers can support their overall health and wellbeing by incorporating these lifestyle tips:
Get enough rest and sleep
Practice gentle yoga, meditation, and massage
Use aromatherapy to uplift mood and energy
Spend time in nature and with supportive loved ones
An ayurvedic diet provides a holistic approach to postpartum health that addresses the unique needs of the individual. By focusing on balance through fresh, seasonal foods, herbs and spices, and dosha-specific meal planning, new mothers can support their overall health and wellbeing in a way that supplements simply can’t match. By incorporating lifestyle tips like rest, gentle movement, and supportive social connections, new mothers can further enhance the benefits of an ayurvedic diet. So don’t hesitate to give it a try and experience the transformative power of ayurveda for yourself.
by Sonal Patel | Oct 9, 2023 | Blog
The FDA approval of Zurzuvae (zuranolone), the first oral medication, has offered new hope to mothers who have exhausted all other treatment options to cope with their postpartum depression. This is a milestone in recognizing the maternal mental health crisis that plagues our country. The benefit of this drug is that it offers a new approach to treating postpartum depression and brings postpartum health into the spotlight. With Zurzuvae and other treatments gaining recognition in mainstream media, postpartum health is becoming an essential topic in society. And yet, Zurzuvae is a reactive sparkling toy distracting from the root causes of postpartum depression.
One in seven women suffer from postpartum depression. Some factors that have led us to a maternal mental health crisis include a social stigma surrounding postpartum depression, lack of universal paid family leave, childcare concerns, barriers to healthcare access in terms of equity and race, and a postpartum medical care system in which 40% of women do not attend their appointments, to name a few. We have created a system for mothers to fail, and now we are in crisis mode.
Each of the above “lack of” could be its own book. My lens is through the medical field. I graduated medical school in 2003. Since then, saying the healthcare landscape has drastically changed would be an understatement. Though we have attempted to create policies that support prevention (expansion of Medicaid/Medicare under the Affordable Care Act), we are constantly in reactive mode as evident by the national COVID response.
My training continued as a pediatrician who further specialized in neonatology and lactation. Admittedly, until I personally tested America’s postpartum system through my own four diverse pregnancies, I didn’t realize the massive holes. It’s a system that demanded my return to pediatric appointments mere days after I delivered with a broken body and a newborn to support. Then, repeating the process several times in the first month in exchange for ten to fifteen minutes of infant care. No wonder my mind fractured months later with undiagnosed postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety.
Postpartum depression is not something that can be treated with a pill alone. The current medical care system does not adequately address a postpartum mother’s healing. One underutilized and economically sound solution for preventing postpartum depression (PPD) is in-home postpartum visits. Home visits allow for more quantitative and qualitative PPD screening.
In 2017, MIECHV (Maternal Infant and Early Childhood Home Visitation program) demonstrated an average PPD screening rate of 75 percent. The federally funded MIECHV supports more than 3,200 state and local agencies that conduct home visits via 20 different models. Economically, MIECHV programs see “a return on investment of $1.89 for every dollar spent.” Families benefiting from MIECHV home visits also report an increase in household income. According to the Center for American Progress, every $1 invested in home visiting programs yields a $3 to $5 return to society.
Other benefits from at-home healthcare includes reduction in maternal and infant mortality and improvement in breastfeeding rates. These outcomes lead to significant reductions in health care expenses.
As we applaud the national spotlight placed on maternal mental health, we cannot overlook the systemic, social, and medical barriers that have led us here. Concurrently, as we pour resources into scientific research, we need to economically support the real, granular issues impacting maternal mental health. America’s postpartum healthcare system needs to change to prioritize prevention rather than glorify quick fixes. Otherwise, we will keep placing bandages over what is none other than a hemorrhaging crisis.
- Postpartum Depression: StatPearls
- Postpartum depression risk factors: A narrative review – PMC
- Long-term effects of a home-visiting intervention for depressed mothers and their infants
- Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program | MCHB
- EVIDENCE ON THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF HOME VISITING PROGRAMS: Laying the Groundwork for Long-Term Follow-Up in the Mother and Inf
- Home Visiting: A Common-Sense Investment – Center for American Progress
by Sonal Patel | May 18, 2023 | Blog
A new baby is a big deal for a family, and it presents many difficulties, especially for new mothers. However, medical in-home postpartum visits are beneficial and necessary for a new mother’s physical, mental, and social well-being. This blog post will cover the advantages of medical in-home postpartum visits from a personal, social, and financial perspective. We’ll also talk about how to get postpartum medical visits at home.
Benefits to Individuals of Postpartum Medical Home Visits
For new mothers, postpartum medical home visits have a number of personal benefits. With these visits, it is ensured that new moms receive the proper medical attention as well as support for their physical and mental health. Individual benefits of medical in-home postpartum visits include the following.
Proper medical care and support
Postpartum visits ensure that new mothers receive the correct medical attention and support. It contributes to the mother’s successful recovery and the rapid resolution of any medical problems.
Keeping an eye out for postpartum depression
Many new mothers experience postpartum depression, which can have serious repercussions. Postpartum checkups offer the chance to check for postpartum depression and, if necessary, to offer the required support and management.
Support for breastfeeding
For new mothers, postpartum medical home visits have various positive interpersonal effects. These appointments allow expectant moms to speak with a doctor and get assistance with their mental and social well-being. Medical in-home postpartum visits have the following interpersonal benefits:
Monitoring for postpartum depression
Postpartum visits provide new mothers a chance to get help emotionally. The doctor can offer the direction and encouragement you need to deal with the emotional difficulties of parenthood.
Social Support
Postpartum appointments give new mothers a chance to interact with a doctor and get social support. It aids new moms in overcoming the feelings of loneliness and isolation that frequently accompany parenting.
Professional advice
Postpartum visits give new mothers the chance to get professional advice. It can aid new mothers in managing the difficulties of motherhood.
Economic Benefits of Postpartum Medical Visits at Home
For new mothers, there are significant financial benefits to having medical appointments at home after delivery. These checkups give the chance to safeguard the mother and child’s health and avoid costly medical problems. The following are a few financial benefits of postpartum care provided by doctors in their homes:
Avoid costly medical problems
Postpartum appointments give the chance to avoid costly medical problems. It makes sure that any medical problems are handled quickly, which can reduce expensive medical expenditures.
Reduce hospital readmissions
Reducing hospital readmissions can be accomplished by scheduling postpartum visits. It guarantees the health of both mother and child and ensures that any medical problems are swiftly resolved, hence minimizing the need for hospital readmissions.
Enhance the mother and child’s health
Postpartum visits can help the mother and child’s health. It makes sure that any medical problems are dealt with right away, which can reduce expensive medical expenditures and enhance both the mother’s and the child’s general health.
How to Get Postpartum Medical Visits at Home
Reach out to us for a free consultation. If we don’t service your area, check out The Center for 4th Trimester Care (c4tc.co) for a list of physicians conducting home visits around the country.
Read more about these benefits in The Doctor and Her Black Bag: How Old Fashion Care Tackles Maternal Mortality and Benefits America’s Economy.
by Sonal Patel | May 18, 2023 | Blog
In addition to being a natural and healthful way to feed infants, breastfeeding provides considerable financial advantages. According to studies, breastfeeding can lower healthcare costs by reducing risk of diseases in mom and newborns. However, despite the benefits of nursing, many women encounter obstacles that make it challenging to do so. In this blog post, we’ll talk about breastfeeding’s advantages for health and the economy, as well as its drawbacks and the necessity of societal pillars for encouraging women to breastfeed.
The Advantages of Breastfeeding for Health
Various minerals and other bioactive components found in breast milk offer protection from infectious and non-communicable diseases. Breastfeeding has been found to lower the incidence of respiratory infections, gastrointestinal illnesses, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in infants. Furthermore, breastfeeding has been connected to better cognitive growth and a lower incidence of obesity.
For mothers, breastfeeding has been linked to a decreased risk of breast, ovarian, endometrial, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Breastfeeding may also hasten postpartum recovery and lower the risk of postpartum depression.
The Advantages of Breastfeeding for Economy
Breastfeeding has a lot of positive economic effects in addition to health benefits. According to a study in the Journal of Pediatrics, if 90% of women nursed their kids for the recommended six months, the United States might save $13 billion annually on healthcare costs. In addition, breastfeeding can lower healthcare costs by reducing illnesses and problems like SIDS, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal infections that need medical attention. Furthermore, breastfeeding can minimize the time parents must take off of work to care for unwell children.
For families, breastfeeding has positive financial effects as well. Formula might be pricey; however, breast milk is less costly. Costs incurred with breastfeeding include purchasing breast pumps and accessories such as bottles. However, with the passing of the Affordable Care Act, breast pumps were mandated to be covered by insurance.
The Challenges of Breastfeeding
Despite the advantages of nursing, many women encounter obstacles that make it challenging to do so. Lack of support from family and friends, inability to access lactation consultants or other services, and having to go back to work soon after giving birth are frequent obstacles to nursing. In addition, some women struggle with physical issues like painful nipples or trouble latching.
Legislation surrounding breastfeeding also causes hurdles. Until the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010, employers did not have to provide adequate space or breaks for pumping. Moreover, employers with under 50 employees still are not required by law to support a breastfeeding mother. Laws also vary by state. Issues associated with public breastfeeding to appropriate places to pump and store breast milk are still contingent on state. For a detailed summary around breastfeeding and laws, check out Breastfeeding State Laws.
Conclusion
Women, newborns, families, communities, and our society can profit from the health and economic benefits of breastfeeding. Although many women desire to breastfeed, they may encounter obstacles that make it challenging to do so. It is crucial to spread awareness of the advantages of breastfeeding among families, healthcare professionals, and employers. Moreover, it is necessary to work to foster an atmosphere that supports and promotes breastfeeding. By eliminating breastfeeding barriers, we all can benefit from its wealth of health and economic advantages.
References
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/maternal-and-economic-benefits-of-breastfeeding#!
https://www.eatsonfeetsresources.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/EconomicsofBF.pdf
https://www.healthline.com/health/breastfeeding/11-benefits-of-breastfeeding
Want more? Download a free copy of Dr. Sonal Patel’s bestseller, The Doctor & Her Black Bag: How old fashioned care tackles maternal mortality and benefits America’s economy.
by Sonal Patel | Feb 8, 2023 | Blog
The 4th trimester is a critical time for mothers and families as they navigate the postpartum period. It is important to understand the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that occur during this time, and to provide the necessary support to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mothers and their families. By nurturing the mother, families can reap many benefits that will contribute to their overall health and well-being.
- Improved Mental Health: After giving birth, mothers are at a higher risk for depression and anxiety. It is important to support mothers during this time by providing a safe and supportive environment. This can include offering practical help, such as meal preparation, household chores, and baby care, as well as emotional support, such as active listening and empathy. When mothers feel supported and valued, they are more likely to have better mental health outcomes.
- Better Physical Health: The physical demands of motherhood can be intense, and it is important to provide the necessary support to ensure that mothers are able to recover from childbirth and return to optimal health. This can include providing adequate rest and sleep, nourishing meals, and help with physical tasks. By nurturing the mother, families can help ensure that she has the energy and resources to care for herself and her family.
- Increased Bonding and Attachment: The 4th trimester is a critical time for bonding and attachment between mothers and their infants. By nurturing the mother, families can help create an environment that is conducive to this bonding process. This can include providing opportunities for skin-to-skin contact, offering emotional support, and helping to ensure that mothers have the time and energy to engage in meaningful interactions with their infants.
- Better Family Relationships: The postpartum period can bring about changes in family relationships. By nurturing the mother, families can help to ensure that these changes are positive and that relationships remain strong. This can include providing emotional support, offering practical help, and promoting open and honest communication.
- Improved Child Development: The first year of life is a critical time for children’s development, and mothers play a crucial role in this process. By nurturing the mother, families can help ensure that children receive the best possible start in life. This can include providing a safe and supportive environment, offering emotional support, and promoting positive parent-child interactions.
As you can see, nurturing the mother during the 4th trimester is critical for the health and well-being of both mothers and their families. By providing the necessary support, families can ensure that mothers have the resources and energy to care for themselves and their families, and that children receive the best possible start in life. Whether it’s through emotional support, practical help, or simply promoting a safe and supportive environment, nurturing the mother will have many benefits that will contribute to the overall health and well-being of the family. By acknowledging and supporting mothers during the 4th trimester, we can improve outcomes for mothers, fathers, and children.
