Cesarean sections have become very normal procedures but this does not diminish the severity of the operation and how moms need to look after themselves after delivery. One thing you may not think about when packing your hospital bag is what snacks to take to the hospital after C-section – let’s take a look at some of the best options.
Snacks To Take To Hospital After C-Section – The Best Options Available
The best snacks to take to the hospital after a C-section are those that are high in essential vitamins and energy such as hard-boiled eggs, yogurts, dried fruit, and vegetables to boost the healing process.
Once your baby is born you will be so overwhelmed by the experience that eating doesn’t even come into it. Many moms feel full up on love but this alone will not support a mom’s healing process. Take a look to see what your body will need after your C-section.
What Are The Best Hospital Snacks After C Section?
Birthing a baby via C-section needs a different care plan postpartum compared to vaginal birth. The enduring surgical process will take its toll on you. The first thing you need to consider is diet.
Your bag may be bursting with cute outfits and baggy clothing but take it from experience my advice for a C-section hospital stay bring snacks!
‣ Protein Power- Including foods high in protein in your bag is a must!
Protein is essential for healthy cell growth and after your C-section, you will need all the healing power you can get.
Now I’m not saying for your partner to whip out the hard-boiled eggs in the delivery room but once things have settled it won’t hurt for you to have some sandwiches packed including cold meats, nuts, and pulses which are great snacks for the hospital bag after C-section.
If you are breastfeeding it is also recommended that you up your protein intake.
‣ Cool Calcium – Calcium is known for its benefits to bones and teeth so why include calcium-rich foods in your hospital bag?
Well, it also encourages your muscles to relax which is what you kind of need just after surgery. Try to eat foods like yogurts, cheese, kale, and spinach.
‣ Iron Lady – After birth you will be losing blood may not be straight away but it will happen and when those flood gates open you need to make sure your body is packing in Iron!
- Iron helps the development of hemoglobin and a deficiency in this nutrient can increase fatigue, dizziness and contribute to anemia.
- Iron-rich foods can be fairly hard to pack in your bag but you could always take some dark chocolate – yes I did say chocolate!
You can take a supplement that can also include many others vitamins you need such as vitamin D.
Take note to eat iron-rich foods when you can, things like egg yolks, red meats, and dried fruit.
‣ Vitamins for Victory – Talking about vitamins. Vitamin C is great for the immune system. As your body is in a weakened state after surgery even though you feel on top of the moon your body needs time to catch up.
Talk to your doctor about taking multivitamins after your delivery. Having a multitude of greatness shoot around your body you will be sure to heal in no time.
But for after a C-section snacks like orange juice, strawberries, or citrus fruits are all a great source of vitamin C, and these are one of the best snacks to take to hospital after C-section.
‣ Not Forgetting Fiber – Everyone dreads the first poo. I don’t care if you have delivered vaginally or via C-section. That first poo is just as scary as the baby you have delivered. This is why our trusted friend fiber needs to become a staple in our diet.
Constipation is super uncomfortable and eating fiber-rich foods will help keep things soft downstairs for you to pass it freely without causing pressure on your scar.
Veggies and fruit have natural fibers in them so don’t forget to take these snacks to hospital after C-section. Things like:
- Pears.
- Popcorn.
- Whole grain bread for your sandwiches.
‣ Heroes Need Hydration- Lastly, we have spoken about diet but I didn’t want to leave it without mentioning hydrating.
Liquids such as orange juice, water, smoothies, and isotonic drinks will all help to get you feeling better and back on your feet.
Foods To Avoid After a C-Section
When we feel sluggish or tired it seems too easy to grab that chocolate bar or can of fizzy drink. While these foods make us feel better in that instant they have little or no benefit to our body, especially after a C-section.
Foods high in fat and sugar can cause our bodies to crash and we end up feeling worse than we did before.
It is also best to avoid caffeine as it has diuretic properties so should be consumed in small amounts. Avoid these snacks from your hospital snack list after your C-section.
FAQs around taking snacks to hospital after C-section
Can I eat ginger after a C section?
Ginger is a great herb that promotes healing, especially after childbirth. Along with many health benefits, it helps stimulate the production of breast milk.
Can I eat sweets after C-section?
We all have a sweet tooth but foods with high fat and sugar content can affect the natural healing process and cause inflammation. It is best if you avoid these foods if you can.
What snacks can I eat after giving birth?
It is best to eat small and often this will help prevent bloating and pressure on your scar tissue. Snacks can consist of yogurt and fruits, super smoothies and for a treat, popcorn is considered a healthy alternative to chips.
Wrapping Up
I hope we have given you some great ideas for the best snacks to take to hospital after C-section.
I am not going to be a spoilsport and say you shouldn’t pack sweet treats or your favorite chips but keep in mind your body has undergone major surgery so it’s best you fuel it with the best foods possible. You will soon be on your feet doing the night feeds and caring for your perfect newborn.
These tips are a good way to start your postpartum journey and encourage healthy habits for years to come.
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