No one talks about the fourth trimester of pregnancy, but it’s where you need the most support, in my opinion. And, I’m sharing my must-have resources to make this transition as easy as possible. These 16 products have been MOST helpful during a time that is full of the unknown.
Foods for Milk Supply
Fond Bone Broth
why it matters?
Fond bone broth is an excellent source of glutamine, makes an easy protein source, and includes anti-inflammatory benefits with ingredients like turmeric. It has 20 grams of protein per jar, and a whole array of trace minerals that aid in postpartum recovery. The ingredients are top tier (no gluten or sugar at all) and I know I’m nourishing both myself and baby J well when I drink a cozy, warm cup of broth.
Artisana and Georgia Grinders Nut Butters
why it matters?
My favorite nut butters have been a staple for both my breakfast and snacks. They provide healthy fats (hello, milk supply!) and can be spread on some paleo waffles or English muffins for quick sources of energy and carbs while I’m loving on my little! I also love these brands because there is no added sugar or hard-to-read ingredients on the label – just nuts!
Nooma Rehydration
why it matters?
Repletion of minerals without food dye and excessive sugar. Hydration is important always, but especially as I’m recovering and breastfeeding! Focusing on hydration postpartum has still been at the top of the list of self-care for me. Optimizing everything I can – from swaddling to hydration – is a must! Nooma Rehydration helps with the latter, and has been a staple for me. You can save on Nooma by clicking the link above and using code LEADERWHITNEY for 50% off.
Tend Prenatal Bar
why it matters?
Prenatal nutrients continue to be vital in the fourth trimester as your body heals! These are an easy, grab-and-go way to get in additional healthy, whole food calories without feeling overwhelmed by supplementation. Plus, they taste amazing. My favorite flavor? Definitely lemon blueberry!
Nutritious Snacks For Overnight Feeding
Majka Lactation Bites
why it matters?
Easy, calorie dense nutrition with milk stimulating ingredients like: good fats including chia seeds, almonds, shredded coconut and extra virgin olive oil; dates that are loaded with antioxidants and a good source of carbs for quick energy and no blood sugar spike; oats that are a good source of fiber and help keep mama’s full longer. Use code WHITNESS to save.
Gratisfied Oat Bars
Why it matters?
These bars are a bed-side necessity since they’re full of healthy fats like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and avocado. Each bar packs in 6g of protein per serving, and is slightly sweetened with honey. The Empower Bar baking mix is another keeper, especially since you can add superfoods of your choosing – I add flax and almond butter!
B.T.R Nation Zen Bar
Why it matters?
Protein is a key player when it comes to adequate milk supply. The low-sugar protein bar extraordinaire B.T.R. bar is a great option. No added sugar, sugar alcohols, stevia or unnecessary junk you don’t want getting into your milk supply either! The plant-based adaptogenics are another added benefit to help keep you calm and present during late night feeds.
Chomps Meat Sticks
Why it matters?
Need I say more than purse protein? One of the easiest ways to up your protein intake when you’re in a time crunch, say like at 3:00 a.m., is grabbing a quick meat stick. Chomps are lower in sodium than conventional meat sticks so they won’t leave you feeling dehydrated and puffy. The classic beef is my favorite – I’ve got a recurring order from Amazon because I love them so much!
Effortless Mom Outfits
Kindred Bravery nursing bras
why it matters?
Believe me when I say, you’ll need these. Breastfeeding is a wonderful bonding time for my son and I, but remaining comfortable makes the experience more enjoyable. These bras are soft but supportive, and are great from going to nursing to nap time (for both me and baby J!). I love that they have sleeping bras, too. Less padding and less elastic for ultimate nighttime comfort.
aNook athletics sports bra tank
why it matters?
This transitional top is fabulous because it was perfect during the third trimester and has straps that make breastfeeding easy, even as you return to postpartum exercise! Which, at first, is just a lot of breathing, core recognition, and walks with baby J!
Moon Mama
why it matters?
Bleeding happens postpartum, and it can happen for weeks. Make it cute! In a time when you’re tired, likely covered in breast milk, and recovering from the most intense thing a woman can go through – birthing a human – it’s nice to have these fun and comfy mesh underwear to make you feel cute through all the things in those early postpartum stages!
Of An Origin convertible nursing tee
why it matters?
Mama’s still want to look cute, and be able to easily nurse their babies at the same time! These tees are not only versatile, but they’re soft and can be dressed up or down. A staple for when people are coming over to bring you food and meet the new babe. Use the code WHITNESSNUTRITION for 15% off!
For Baby’s Well-Being
MamaCoco Swaddle
These swaddles give the “old fashioned” blanket swaddle vibes, without having to wrestle with a ton of excess fabric in the middle of the night. Baby J loves being cocooned in these soft and stretchy swaddles. Plus, they come in a wide variety of patterns and colors.
Baby’s Brew Bottle Warmer
why it matters?
As you start to get more active with the baby, you’ll need an easy way to warm a bottle, ANYWHERE. You can adjust the temperature easily, and it’s small enough to easily fit into your diaper bag. It’s stainless steel, and rechargeable, so no outlet is needed when you’re out and about!
And, a random but important accessory:
Joy Creative Shop fill-in thank you cards
why it matters?
People love you, you want to thank them (thanking people and gifting is my love language) but you have limited time and this makes it easy! They’re customizable, too, so you can add your family member’s names to make it more personal.
If you’re a new mom looking for more than product recommendations, and want more nutritional support to help you fuel your best while taking care of your littles? Sign up for my new program nourishMET – made for female bodies! Over 8 weeks, I’ll lead you through ways to master your metabolism, gain more energy and understanding of your health, and get personalized meal recommendations. It’s time to do something for YOU, mama!
What did I miss? Is there something you’d add to this list?
