Journeys to recovery: Nutrition

There is a strong link between nutrition, exercise and mental health. While eating well and exercising may not be enough on their own to combat the risk or effect of perinatal anxiety and depression, we do know that a combination of factors including eating well can contribute to a person’s recovery.

So how do you eat regular nutritious meals when you’re spending every waking hour caring for your baby? If you’re really lucky family or friends may bring you meals that you can freeze. If that’s not on offer, cooking one large meal every few days and freezing portions can also work well. Preparing small snacks such as yoghurt, fruit, crackers, cheese, muesli bars, vegies and dip means you can graze all day and get the nutrition that you need.

This is often a more realistic option for anyone with a reduced appetite.

Here are some other options for quick nutritious snacks and meals on the go:

• High fibre cereal with fresh fruit and yoghurt (day or night)
• Wholegrain toast with avocado and tomato
• Toasted wholegrain sandwiches
• Baked beans
• Tin of tuna/salmon or BBQ chicken with pre-prepared salad leaves and dressing.

Try to pick options that help you eat reasonably nutritious food regularly and minimise stress.