What Foods Should Be Avoided During the Postpartum Confinement Period?
Jul 14, 2020
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Jiang
Introduction
What Not to Eat During the Postpartum Confinement Period:
1. Raw, cold, or greasy foods: Gastrointestinal motility is reduced during the postpartum confinement period; therefore, excessively greasy foods—such as fatty meats, lard, and peanuts—should be consumed sparingly to avoid indigestion.
2. Avoid eating eggs immediately after delivery: Consuming eggs too soon may impair digestion and increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Limit intake of brown sugar.
4. Reduce tea consumption.
After giving birth, a woman enters the postpartum recovery period—commonly known as “sitting the month.” Because her body is inherently weakened immediately after childbirth, she requires proper nourishment and care to restore vitality and strength. At this time, family members often rush to prepare highly nutritious foods to “replenish” her—but in doing so, they frequently overlook important dietary considerations. So, what foods should be avoided during the postpartum recovery period? Below are key guidelines.
Foods to Avoid During the Postpartum Recovery Period
1. Raw, Cold, or Greasy Foods
During the postpartum recovery period, it is best to avoid raw, cold, or greasy foods. Gastrointestinal motility is naturally reduced at this time, making digestion less efficient. Therefore, excessively greasy foods—such as fatty pork, lard, or peanuts—should be consumed sparingly to prevent indigestion. In summer deliveries, new mothers may crave refreshing, cooling foods like ice cream or cold salads; however, these can impair spleen and stomach function and hinder the timely expulsion of lochia (postpartum vaginal discharge).
2. Eggs—Timing Matters
It is important to note that new mothers should avoid eating eggs within the first several hours after delivery. Childbirth involves significant physical exertion and profuse sweating, leading to temporary fluid depletion and diminished digestive capacity. Consuming eggs immediately postpartum may cause indigestion and place undue strain on the gastrointestinal system. Throughout the entire postpartum recovery period, a daily protein intake of approximately 100 grams is recommended.
3. Limit Red Sugar Water
Some new mothers drink red sugar water for extended periods after childbirth—sometimes up to two weeks. Prolonged consumption, however, may impede uterine recovery. Due to its blood-activating properties, excessive red sugar intake could even exacerbate postpartum bleeding. Therefore, red sugar water is generally recommended only for the first 7–10 days postpartum.
4. Minimize Tea Consumption
Do not assume that tea consumption is unrestricted after delivery. Tea contains high concentrations of tannic acid, which can be absorbed through mucosal membranes and negatively affect breast circulation—thereby suppressing milk production and potentially causing insufficient lactation.
The above outlines key foods to avoid during the postpartum recovery period. After childbirth, new mothers are advised to maintain a light, balanced diet. Even nutrient-dense “tonic” foods should be carefully considered before inclusion. We hope this information proves helpful—and wish you joy, good health, and well-being.
