Bone Broth: A Postpartum Superfood for New Moms

Hey there! I’m McKayla Broadhurst, Postpartum Doula, Postpartum Nutrition Professional and co-owner of Bountiful Doulas. Over the last year, I've spent my time falling in love with postpartum nutrition and nourishment as I became a certified postpartum nutrition professional, and watched it change clients lives for the better! Today, I'm excited to share the wonders of bone broth—a true postpartum superfood that supports your recovery, nourishes your body, and wraps you in comfort with every cup or bowl. 

Why Bone Broth?

After the rollercoaster of pregnancy and childbirth, your body is in a delicate state of recovery, needing extra love and care. Birth can be seen as a traumatic event no matter how yours went, you grew and birthed a human - your body needs time to recover. If you look at various cultures and traditions around the world, you’ll notice one thing many have in common - bone broth. That’s because bone broth is a warm, easily digestible, and nutrient-packed comfort food that stands out in the realm of postpartum nutrition. It’s not just a warm beverage but a rich source of essential nutrients your body needs after welcoming new life.

Rich in Essential Nutrients

Bone broth is a nutritional powerhouse, essential for replenishing your body and supporting bone health postpartum. It's filled with minerals like calcium and magnesium. The iron in bone broth is a game-changer, especially for combating post-birth fatigue and boosting energy levels. Collagen and gelatin, abundant in bone broth, are vital for healing tissues, the perineum, and any incisions, while also fortifying your gut health and laying the groundwork for overall wellness.

Digestion and Gut Health

Bone broth is here to ease postpartum digestive challenges. Its gelatin content improves nutrient breakdown and absorption, soothing the gastrointestinal tract. This supports a healthy gut-brain axis, crucial for your mental well-being during this transformative period.

Hydration Station

Hydration is key, even more for nursing parents. Bone broth offers a tasty way to stay hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance, supporting essential bodily functions. (Not big on the taste? We’ll get to that too!) 

Immunity Boost

During the postpartum period, your immune system needs all the support it can get. Bone broth boosts your defenses and fights inflammation, aiding in a quicker recovery. Its anti-inflammatory properties ease discomfort and accelerate healing.

A Source of Comfort and Warmth

There’s a lot of comfort in the ritual of sipping bone broth. Beyond its nutritional value, it’s a form of self-care, offering warmth and solace during the often overwhelming early weeks with your baby.

Incorporating Bone Broth into Your Postpartum Diet

It can be sipped on its own, used as a base for nutritious soups, or to enrich grains and vegetables. I like to cook all of my rice and grains in broth, or add spices like turmeric and sip it in a mug when it’s cold! It’s an adaptable superfood, fitting seamlessly into your postpartum nutrition plan.

Bone broth is an age-old remedy turned postpartum superfood. As you navigate motherhood, it stands as a nurturing, healing ally, supporting your body's recovery and your spirit’s renewal.

FAQ:
How quickly can I start drinking bone broth after giving birth?

You can start as soon as you feel ready. Bone broth is gentle on the stomach and can be a comforting first food post-delivery - I've had clients take it to the hospital with them!

Is store-bought bone broth as beneficial as homemade?

While homemade bone broth typically offers more nutrients and fewer additives, high-quality, store-bought bone broth can also be a good option for moms short on time - I like the Kettle and Fire brand for one with cleaner ingredients and actual bones used (many store bought 'bone' broths are not made with actual bones - be sure to check the ingredients!)

Ready to embrace postpartum wellness with bone broth and more? Let Bountiful Doulas guide you through a holistic approach to postpartum care. Contact us for personalized support, from nutrition to emotional well-being, and let’s make your postpartum journey as fulfilling and healthy as possible.