Energy rescue for new mums and dads

We asked qualified naturopaths for effective solutions to help with improving energy levels, specifically targeted to new mums and dads.

Melinda Hutchinson-Taylor, naturopath

• Exercise. Even a 30 minute walk, taking in lots of fresh air, can help you (and the bub) to feel revived and give you some perspective on things.
• Diet. It's essential to nourish yourself, your partner and the baby. Try to prepare as much as you can before the baby is born by making soups, casseroles and other foods which can be frozen. These can then be reheated as needed.
• Caffeine. Whilst it may be tempting to consume caffeine-containing drinks (both hot and cold) when you are feeling tired, try to resist the temptation. In the short-term, these may boost your energy levels, yet in the long term, they will further stress your already-overworked adrenal glands. Opt for nice herbal teas instead like liquorice, ginger and citrus blends.
• Make the most of quality time together. It really is a special time for parents and the new baby and should be valued. A positive approach may help to outweigh the fact that you are running on little sleep and not much energy.
• If you are a TV addict, get a DVD recorder so you don't have to stay up for the 9:30pm shows. You can watch them during the 4am feed instead.

Carl Gagnon, naturopath

• For the men, take 3-4 weeks off work if possible. Resist going into provider mode and taking on too much work. Your partner would much rather have you home raising your child and will be much happier because of it.
• Again for the men, take a good multivitamin, as well as fish oils and adrenal tonics like Korean Ginseng to keep up your stamina.

Emma Turner, naturopath

• Take it in turns (to nurse, feed if possible, change, bath etc.) – even when dad or the primary carer is working, as it's often just as exhausting being the primary carer or mum as it is working and this is often misunderstood.
• If breastfeeding, frequent snacks (healthy), liquids, supplements and rest are a must to keep your energy and health up.
• Take time off together to adjust to the new bub and get a routine established (that works for all) before returning to work and leaving one person to care for bub.
• Laugh and enjoy where possible as it can be an exhausting time for everyone.  

Despina Lord, naturopath

• Rest – whenever the baby rests so should you (especially in the first few weeks)
• Get a house cleaner for the first three months (or get friends/family to help out).
• Always accept a helping hand and delegate wherever possible.
• Time out – being away from the bub is very helpful.
• Don't try to keep up with the Jones (or other mums/dads). All babies are different and we all cope in different ways.
• Be aware of the blues that can occur after birth.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help.
• Have fun – they grow up soooo quickly.  

Lynda Brewin, naturopath

• During a quiet moment plan your meals for the next weeks. It is much easier during a hectic afternoon to just look at what you are meant to cook rather than think about what you can cook! Shopping also becomes easier and cheaper with a list of meal specific foods.

Tracy Wolf, naturopath

• Don't miss meals (this will only make it more difficult to cope), and watch blood sugar levels, too. When tired, try an energy shake made with almond milk (or soy or regular milk is okay too,) banana and honey. Calcium rich drinks will also help with breast feeding and milk production.
• Keep hydrated or your milk may dry up, causing more stress.
• Don't try to stick to any routine and/or ‘tough' training in the first six weeks – just go with your babies needs, remember they have been completely dependant on you for nine months and this will not change quickly. Surrender to their lifestyle if possible: sleeping, playing, drinking and eating at the same time.
• Shop online!