Nutrition is critical and important during the postpartum period after childbirth because the body is healing. Adjusting hormonally and for many women producing breast milk. And this is why nutrition matters:

1. For recovery and healing: for tissue repair the body needs nutrients like protein, Vitamin C, Zinc and Iron to heal after childbirth, vaginal or C-section, it doesn’t matter. For energy replenishment, labour and delivery are physically demanding. Adequate calories and nutrients help restore strength and energy. 
2. Number 2, replenishing nutrients. So basically replenishing nutrient stores i.e. replenishing what you have lost.  When you’re giving birth you lose blood. So iron to replenish iron. Blood loss during delivery can lead to low iron levels. Iron-rich fruits or supplements help prevent anemia and fatigue. Calcium and Vitamin D are needed to support bone health, especially if the mother is breastfeeding. Vitamin B is important for energy and mood stabilization .
3. Breastfeeding nutrition: Increased calories are needed for breastfeeding. But the proper calories are needed. Breast feeding can burn up to 300 to 500 extra calories per day. Hydration and nutrition transfer. As you are breastfeeding, you want to transfer proper nutrition to the baby, like DHA which is Omega 3, Iodine, Choline, and Vitamin A to support infant brain and immune development through breastfeeding.
4. Mental health support & mood regulation: Deficiency in Omega 3, Vitamin D and B vitamins and magnesium have been linked to postpartum depression and anxiety. Stable blood sugar levels as well. Balanced meals help prevent mood swings and energy crashes.
5. Long term health. Everything we do in postpartum is to bring the woman back to her long term health. To support metabolic balance, hormonal regulation and reduce the risk of chronic disease later e.g. type 2 diabetes or osteoporosis. 
6. So in summary, essential nutrients are needed for a healthy postpartum journey.

• Protein for tissue repair, energy and milk production.
• Iron to prevent anaemia
• Calcium and vitamin D for bone health
• Omega three (DHA) for brain health for baby and mother. 
• Follates which are B12 and Choline and for nervous system support,
• Fibre and water for digestive health, especially after delivery.