After giving birth, mothers need to focus on their postpartum recovery and taking care of their newborns. One important aspect of this recovery is ensuring that new moms are getting all the essential nutrients they need to help their bodies heal and replenish.
Supplements can be a great way for postnatal women to get the vitamins and minerals they need. One key vitamin to consider is vitamin D. This vitamin is important for bone health and can also help boost the immune system, which is especially beneficial during the postpartum period when moms may be susceptible to illness.
In addition to vitamin D, postpartum women should also consider taking a vitamin B complex. B vitamins are essential for energy production and can help combat fatigue, which is a common concern for new moms. They can also help with mood regulation and may even aid in lactation, which is important for women who are breastfeeding.
Overall, vitamins play a crucial role in postpartum recovery. New moms need to be diligent about taking the necessary supplements and ensuring they are getting the right nutrients to support their bodies during this time. By prioritizing their health and wellness, mothers can better care for themselves and their babies.
Importance of Postpartum Vitamin Supplements
After giving birth, new mothers often prioritize the health and well-being of their baby, but it’s equally important for them to take care of themselves. The postnatal period, also known as the postpartum period, is a critical time when a woman’s body goes through numerous changes and requires essential nutrients to recover.
Vitamins play a crucial role in postpartum recovery as they help replenish and restore the body’s nutrient levels. During pregnancy and childbirth, a woman’s body undergoes significant physical and hormonal changes, leading to depleted nutrient stores. It’s important for postpartum mothers to supplement their diet with vitamins to ensure their body gets the necessary nutrients it needs.
One of the key vitamins that postpartum mothers should take is vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for bone health and maintaining strong immune function. It also helps in preventing conditions such as osteoporosis and postpartum depression. Postpartum mothers can either get vitamin D from sunlight exposure or take a supplement recommended by their healthcare provider.
In addition to vitamin D, postpartum mothers should also consider taking a vitamin B complex supplement. B vitamins are crucial for energy production, stress management, and promoting healthy brain function. Postpartum mothers often experience fatigue and increased stress levels, making a vitamin B complex supplement an important addition to their postpartum recovery routine.
Another vitamin that is essential for postpartum recovery is vitamin C. This vitamin plays a critical role in wound healing and tissue repair, which is particularly important for women who have undergone a cesarean section or experienced perineal tearing during childbirth. Vitamin C also supports the immune system and aids in collagen production, promoting healthy skin and strengthening connective tissues.
The Benefits of Postpartum Vitamin Supplements
- Supports overall health and well-being during the postpartum period.
- Restores depleted nutrient levels in the body.
- Aids in recovery from childbirth and cesarean section.
- Reduces the risk of postpartum depression.
- Promotes bone health and helps prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
- Boosts energy levels and supports stress management.
- Aids in wound healing and tissue repair.
- Strengthens the immune system.
In conclusion, taking vitamin supplements during the postpartum period is highly beneficial for new mothers. These supplements help replenish essential nutrients, support physical and emotional recovery, and promote overall health and well-being. It’s important for postpartum mothers to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the right supplements and dosages suitable for their individual needs.
Key Nutrients for Postnatal Wellness
After giving birth, it is important for new moms to prioritize their postnatal wellness. One way to support the body’s recovery is by taking essential vitamins and supplements. These nutrients can help replenish the body’s stores, promote healing, and provide the energy needed to care for a newborn.
Postpartum Vitamins
Postpartum vitamins are specifically designed to support the unique nutritional needs of new moms. They often contain higher levels of certain vitamins and minerals that are essential for recovery, such as vitamin D, iron, and calcium. These vitamins can help replenish the body after the physical stress of childbirth and support bone health during breastfeeding.
Essential Nutrients
In addition to postpartum vitamins, there are several key nutrients that new moms should ensure they are getting enough of in their diet. These include:
– Iron: Iron is important for replenishing blood loss after birth and preventing postpartum anemia. Good sources of iron include lean meats, beans, and leafy green vegetables.
– Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain health and can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression. They can be found in fatty fish, such as salmon, as well as walnuts and flaxseeds.
– Calcium: Calcium is important for bone health, especially during breastfeeding. Dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, and leafy green vegetables are good sources of calcium.
– Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for bone health and immune function. It can be obtained through sun exposure or through supplements.
– B vitamins: B vitamins, including folate and B12, are important for energy production and supporting the nervous system. Good sources of B vitamins include whole grains, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals.
By prioritizing these key nutrients, new moms can support their postnatal wellness and ensure they have the energy and nutrients needed to navigate the demands of early motherhood.
Vitamin D and Its Role in Postpartum Health
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for postpartum recovery and overall health, especially for new mothers. It plays a crucial role in several physiological processes that directly impact postnatal well-being.
Why is Vitamin D Important for Postpartum Health?
Vitamin D is crucial for the body’s ability to absorb calcium, which is essential for bone health and strength. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, a mother’s calcium needs increase significantly to support the growth and development of her baby. Vitamin D helps ensure that the body effectively absorbs and utilizes the calcium obtained from diet or supplements.
In addition to its role in calcium absorption, vitamin D also plays a vital role in supporting the immune system. Postpartum mothers are more susceptible to infections and illnesses due to the physical stress of giving birth and the demands of caring for a newborn. Adequate vitamin D levels can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.
How Can Postpartum Mothers Take Vitamin D?
The best way for postpartum mothers to obtain vitamin D is through safe sun exposure. Spending about 10-15 minutes in the sun, without sunscreen, preferably during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense, can help the body produce vitamin D naturally.
However, due to various factors such as weather conditions, skin color, and geographical location, it may not always be possible to rely on sunlight alone for vitamin D. In such cases, dietary supplements are recommended. Postpartum mothers can take vitamin D supplements in the form of tablets or liquid drops, as prescribed by their healthcare provider.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, including vitamin D, especially if you are breastfeeding. They can assess your specific needs and recommend the appropriate dosage to support your postpartum recovery and overall health.
In conclusion, vitamin D is a vital nutrient for postpartum mothers. It supports calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function, all of which are essential for a healthy recovery after giving birth. Whether through safe sun exposure or dietary supplements, ensuring adequate vitamin D intake is crucial for postpartum health.
The Benefits of Vitamin C for New Mothers
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that new mothers should consider taking to support their postpartum recovery. Giving birth and the postnatal period can be physically demanding, and vitamin C can help provide the body with the necessary support.
Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties, which can be particularly beneficial for new mothers. It can help strengthen the immune system and protect the body against common illnesses and infections.
In addition to its immune-boosting effects, vitamin C also plays a crucial role in wound healing. Giving birth can result in tears or incisions that need time to heal. Vitamin C helps in the formation of collagen, a protein that is essential for wound repair and tissue regeneration.
Furthermore, vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect the body against oxidative stress, which is common during the postpartum period. Oxidative stress can lead to cell damage and inflammation, and vitamin C helps counteract these effects.
Postpartum supplements that contain vitamin C can be a convenient way for new mothers to ensure they are getting enough of this essential nutrient. It is important to discuss with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements to determine an appropriate dosage.
In conclusion, vitamin C offers numerous benefits for new mothers during their postpartum recovery. By taking vitamin C, new mothers can support their immune system, aid in wound healing, and protect against oxidative stress. Incorporating vitamin C into their postpartum routine can help new mothers feel their best as they navigate the challenges of early motherhood.
Vitamin B Complex: Supporting Postpartum Energy Levels
Giving birth and caring for a newborn can be physically and emotionally draining for new mothers. Exhaustion, fatigue, and low energy levels are common postpartum issues that many women experience. To support their energy levels and overall well-being during this period, it is important for new moms to consider taking supplements, such as vitamin B complex.
The vitamin B complex consists of a group of essential nutrients, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid), and B12 (cobalamin). These vitamins play crucial roles in energy production, brain function, and metabolism.
Maintaining adequate levels of these vitamins is important for energy production, especially during the postpartum period when sleep deprivation and hormonal changes can leave new moms feeling depleted. Taking vitamin B complex supplements can help support the body’s natural energy production processes and combat fatigue.
In addition to supporting energy levels, vitamin B complex also plays a role in mood regulation and mental well-being. The B vitamins are involved in the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are important for mental health. By ensuring an adequate intake of these vitamins, new moms can help support their emotional well-being and combat postpartum mood swings.
It’s important for postpartum mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new supplements, including vitamin B complex. A healthcare provider can assess individual needs, determine appropriate dosages, and provide guidance on supplementation during the postnatal period.
In conclusion, vitamin B complex supplements can be a valuable addition to the postpartum recovery plan for new moms. Supporting energy levels, mood regulation, and overall well-being, these essential nutrients can help new mothers navigate the challenges of early motherhood.
Iron: Essential for Postpartum Hemoglobin Production
New mothers often experience a decrease in iron levels after giving birth. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Postnatal iron deficiency can lead to anemia, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating.
To support postpartum iron levels, it is important for new moms to take iron-rich foods or supplements. While a balanced diet is essential, it may be difficult for postpartum women to meet their iron requirements through food alone. Therefore, doctors often recommend postpartum mothers to take iron supplements in addition to their regular prenatal vitamins.
Iron supplements can help replenish iron stores and support the production of hemoglobin. It is important to choose an iron supplement that is specifically formulated for postpartum women, as the dosage and form of iron may differ from regular iron supplements.
It’s important to note that iron supplements should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider. Taking too much iron can be harmful, so it’s essential to follow the recommended dosage. Additionally, it may be beneficial to take iron supplements along with vitamin C, as it can enhance iron absorption.
Postpartum mothers should consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new vitamin or supplement regimen. They can help determine the appropriate dosage and type of iron supplement for individual needs, taking into account factors such as iron levels, overall health, and any underlying conditions.
By ensuring adequate iron intake, new mothers can support their postpartum recovery and promote optimal hemoglobin production, helping to prevent anemia and maintain overall energy levels.
Calcium and Magnesium: Promoting Bone Health After Pregnancy
Mothers often overlook the importance of calcium and magnesium in their postnatal recovery. While many focus on taking vitamin supplements to support their overall well-being after giving birth, these two minerals should not be overlooked. Calcium and magnesium play crucial roles in promoting bone health, which is essential for new mothers.
The Importance of Calcium
Calcium is a vital nutrient for postpartum recovery because it helps in strengthening bones. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, a mother’s body transfers a significant amount of calcium to support the growing baby’s bones. Therefore, new mothers need to replenish the calcium levels in their bodies to avoid deficiencies and bone-related issues.
The recommended daily intake of calcium for postpartum women is around 1,000 milligrams. This can be obtained through various dietary sources such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods. However, if it is challenging to meet the daily requirement through diet alone, calcium supplements can be considered under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
The Role of Magnesium
Magnesium works in conjunction with calcium to promote bone strength and overall health. It aids in calcium absorption and prevents its buildup in soft tissues. Additionally, magnesium also plays a significant role in muscle function and relaxation, which can be beneficial for new mothers facing muscle cramps and tension postpartum.
It is recommended for postpartum women to consume around 320 milligrams of magnesium per day. This can be achieved through dietary sources such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark leafy greens. However, just like with calcium, magnesium supplements can be used if necessary and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Remember, while taking vitamins and supplements is essential for postpartum recovery, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen. They can assess your specific needs and ensure that you are taking the right dosage and combination of nutrients for optimal bone health and overall well-being.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Postpartum Brain Function
After giving birth, it is important for new mothers to take care of their own health and well-being. One essential nutrient that can support postpartum recovery is Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are a type of healthy fat that play a crucial role in brain development and function.
The Benefits of Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, are vital for brain health and function. They have been shown to support cognitive function, memory, and learning ability. This is especially important for new mothers, as they are often sleep-deprived and may experience brain fog or difficulty concentrating.
Omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce postpartum inflammation and promote overall recovery. They have been linked to a reduced risk of postpartum depression, as well as other mental health issues commonly experienced by new mothers.
Sources of Omega-3s
The best dietary sources of Omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. However, many new mothers may be hesitant to consume fish due to concerns about mercury levels or fishy taste. In this case, fish oil supplements can be a convenient and safe alternative.
Supplementing with Omega-3s
If you decide to take Omega-3 supplements, it is important to choose a high-quality product. Look for supplements that are made from pure, pharmaceutical-grade fish oil and have been third-party tested for potency and purity.
It is also important to follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the right dosage for your specific needs and guide you on the best approach to supplementing with Omega-3s.
Conclusion
Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids into your postpartum recovery routine can help support brain function and overall well-being. Whether you choose to consume fatty fish or take supplements, ensuring an adequate intake of these essential nutrients is important for new mothers.
Remember to prioritize self-care and speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have regarding postpartum vitamins and supplements.
Vitamin E: Supporting Skin Repair and Elasticity
During the postpartum period, new mothers often experience changes in their skin due to the hormonal shifts that occur after giving birth. These changes can include dryness, stretch marks, and loss of elasticity. Fortunately, vitamin E can help support skin repair and improve elasticity, making it an essential nutrient for postnatal recovery.
What is Vitamin E?
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant in the body. It plays a crucial role in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to premature aging and other health issues. In addition to its antioxidant properties, vitamin E has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can benefit skin health.
How Does Vitamin E Support Skin Repair and Elasticity?
One of the main benefits of vitamin E for postpartum skin recovery is its ability to promote collagen production. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its strength and elasticity. After giving birth, the skin may stretch significantly, leading to stretch marks and loss of elasticity. Vitamin E helps stimulate collagen synthesis, which can aid in repairing damaged skin and improving its appearance.
In addition to promoting collagen production, vitamin E also helps moisturize the skin and improves its overall texture. This is particularly beneficial for postpartum mothers who may experience dryness or flakiness due to hormonal changes. By keeping the skin well-hydrated, vitamin E can help prevent further damage and support its natural healing process.
Sources of Vitamin E
To ensure an adequate intake of vitamin E, postpartum mothers can include a variety of foods in their diet. Good sources of vitamin E include:
| Food Source | Vitamin E Content (per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Almonds | 26.2mg |
| Sunflower seeds | 35.17mg |
| Spinach | 2.03mg |
| Avocado | 2.07mg |
| Olive oil | 14.35mg |
In addition to incorporating these foods into their diet, postpartum mothers can also consider taking vitamin E supplements, but it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements.
In conclusion, vitamin E is an essential nutrient for postpartum mothers, as it supports skin repair and elasticity. By including vitamin E-rich foods in their diet and considering supplements under professional guidance, postpartum mothers can aid their skin’s recovery after giving birth.
Zinc: Boosting Immune System Recovery in New Moms
During the postpartum period, new mothers go through numerous physical and emotional changes. These changes can put a strain on their immune systems, making them more susceptible to illness. One essential nutrient that can support the immune system recovery in new moms is zinc.
The Importance of Zinc
Zinc is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions, including immune system function. It helps in the production and regulation of immune system cells, making it an essential nutrient for boosting the immune system.
After giving birth, a new mother’s immune system may be weakened due to the physical stress of childbirth and hormonal changes. Taking zinc supplements can help replenish the body’s zinc stores and support immune system recovery.
Zinc-Rich Foods
In addition to supplements, new mothers can also incorporate zinc-rich foods into their postnatal diet. Foods such as lean meats, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are excellent natural sources of zinc. Including these foods in their meals can help new moms meet their daily zinc requirements and promote immune system health.
It is important to note that breastfeeding mothers should consult their healthcare provider before taking any supplements, including zinc.
In conclusion, zinc is an essential nutrient for boosting immune system recovery in new moms during the postpartum period. Along with a balanced diet that includes zinc-rich foods, taking supplements can help replenish the body’s zinc stores and promote overall health and well-being for new mothers.
Folic Acid: Preventing Postpartum Anemia
One essential vitamin for new moms to consider taking after giving birth is folic acid. Folic acid is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in preventing postpartum anemia.
During pregnancy, a woman’s body needs more folic acid to support the development of the baby and prevent neural tube defects. Taking prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid is recommended throughout pregnancy. However, the need for folic acid does not end with childbirth.
The Importance of Folic Acid
Folic acid helps the body produce new red blood cells and maintain healthy blood levels. After birth, women may experience blood loss, leading to a drop in iron levels and an increased risk of anemia. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and difficulty recovering from the physical demands of childbirth.
Taking folic acid supplements during the postpartum period can help replenish iron levels and prevent anemia. It supports the body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells, ensuring adequate oxygenation and overall good health.
How to Incorporate Folic Acid into Your Postpartum Diet
To ensure you are getting enough folic acid, it is recommended to continue taking prenatal vitamins or switch to postnatal vitamins specifically designed for the postpartum period. These vitamins often include the necessary nutrients, including folic acid, to support a new mom’s recovery.
In addition to supplements, you can also incorporate folic acid-rich foods into your diet. Leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, and fortified grains are all excellent sources of folic acid. Including these foods in your meals can help boost your folic acid levels and promote a faster recovery.
Remember that consulting with your healthcare provider is essential to determine the right dosage of folic acid or any other supplements that you may need during the postpartum period.
Vitamin K: Important for Postpartum Blood Clotting
After giving birth, new moms need to take extra care of their postnatal health. One essential vitamin for postpartum recovery is vitamin K. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in the blood clotting process, which is especially important during the postpartum period when the body undergoes significant changes.
Postpartum hemorrhage, or excessive bleeding after giving birth, is a concern for many new moms. Vitamin K helps the blood to clot properly, reducing the risk of excessive bleeding and promoting healing. It is especially important for women who have had a cesarean section or experienced complications during childbirth.
While the body naturally produces some vitamin K, it may not be enough to meet the increased demand during the postpartum period. That’s why incorporating vitamin K-rich foods into your diet or taking vitamin K supplements can be beneficial for new moms.
Some vitamin K-rich foods include dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and fermented foods like sauerkraut. Additionally, there are vitamin K supplements available on the market specifically designed for postpartum women.
It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you. Your healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate dosage and make sure it won’t interfere with any other medications you may be taking.
Ensuring you have adequate vitamin K levels is an important part of postpartum recovery. It can help reduce the risk of complications and promote overall healing. By incorporating vitamin K-rich foods or supplements into your diet, you can support your body’s natural healing process after giving birth.
Selenium: Antioxidant Benefits for Postnatal Wellness
After giving birth, postnatal mothers need to replenish their bodies with essential vitamins and minerals to support their recovery and overall well-being. One important nutrient that new moms should consider adding to their postpartum supplements is selenium, a powerful antioxidant.
Selenium plays a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress and protecting the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals. This is especially important for postpartum women, as their bodies are undergoing significant changes and recovering from the physical stress of childbirth.
Research suggests that selenium may help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for postpartum recovery. Taking a selenium vitamin can also support healthy thyroid function, as selenium is needed for the production of thyroid hormones.
New mothers can obtain selenium from a variety of dietary sources, including Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, eggs, and whole grains. However, it may be challenging to get enough selenium through diet alone, especially during the postpartum period when nutrient needs are increased.
Therefore, many healthcare professionals recommend postpartum mothers to take a selenium supplement to ensure they are getting enough of this vital nutrient. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new vitamins or supplements.
In conclusion, selenium offers antioxidant benefits for postnatal wellness. By including selenium in their postpartum supplement regimen, new mothers can support their recovery and overall health during this important time.
Vitamin A: Supporting Postpartum Vision Health
After giving birth, many mothers experience changes in their bodies as they recover from the postnatal period. One important aspect of postpartum recovery is maintaining good vision health, which can be supported by adequate intake of essential nutrients like vitamin A.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. It is essential for maintaining good vision, especially in low light conditions. This is because vitamin A is involved in the production of a pigment called rhodopsin, which is necessary for the eyes to detect and process light.
New mothers can benefit from taking vitamin A supplements or consuming foods rich in this important nutrient. Some excellent sources of vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and liver.
Benefits of Vitamin A for Postpartum Vision Health:
- Supports the formation of visual pigments in the eyes
- Helps maintain good night vision
- Contributes to overall eye health
In addition to its role in vision health, vitamin A also plays a key role in the immune system and promotes healthy skin and tissue repair, which can be beneficial for postpartum recovery.
It’s important for new moms to consult with their healthcare provider before taking any vitamin A supplements, as excessive intake can be harmful. The recommended daily intake of vitamin A for postpartum mothers is 770 micrograms per day.
In conclusion, vitamin A is an essential nutrient for new mothers during the postpartum period. It supports postpartum vision health and overall well-being. By including vitamin A-rich foods in their diet or taking supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider, new moms can ensure they are getting adequate amounts of this important vitamin.
The Role of Vitamin B12 in Postpartum Recovery
Postnatal recovery is a crucial time for new mothers after giving birth. Their bodies go through significant changes and require adequate nutrition to support healing and replenishment. One essential vitamin that plays a vital role in postpartum recovery is vitamin B12.
The Importance of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for various bodily functions. It is particularly important for postpartum recovery due to its role in energy production, DNA synthesis, and nervous system function.
During the postpartum period, mothers often experience fatigue and low energy levels as their bodies heal and adjust to the demands of motherhood. Vitamin B12 helps combat fatigue by aiding in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. By ensuring an adequate supply of vitamin B12, new mothers can regain their energy levels more effectively.
Sources of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 can be obtained naturally from animal-based foods like meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs. However, for vegetarian or vegan mothers, getting enough vitamin B12 can be more challenging. In such cases, supplements or fortified foods may be necessary to meet the recommended daily intake.
It’s crucial for postpartum mothers to incorporate vitamin B12-rich foods or supplements into their diet to support their overall recovery and well-being. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine the appropriate vitamin B12 dosage and supplementation for individual needs.
Overall, vitamin B12 plays a significant role in postpartum recovery by promoting energy production, supporting nervous system function, and aiding in DNA synthesis. New mothers should prioritize incorporating vitamin B12-rich foods or supplements into their diet to ensure optimal postpartum recovery.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes or starting any supplements during the postpartum period.