05/09/2025
HOW POSTNATAL NUTRITION PRACTICES AFFECT MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH
Postnatal nutrition practices are vital components of maternal and child health, particularly in the postnatal period, typically lasting up to 6-12 months after delivery. It encompasses a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, hydration, and breastfeeding, all of which are vital for recovery, lactation, and reducing risks of postpartum complications. The postnatal period is a special stage in the mother’s life, during which major physical, social, and emotional changes occur, and as the mother’s body restores organ function and other body systems to return to the pre-pregnancy period. Inadequate dietary intake can lead to malnutrition which currently affects millions of people in developing countries and worsens the health outcomes of postpartum mothers. Good postnatal care and a well-balanced diet during this period are very important for the health of postpartum mothers and their children. The postnatal period increases nutritional demands and marks a significant life transition that can impact diet quality and subsequently predisposes women to great risk of being overweight or under nutrition. The poor nutritional status of mothers after childbirth is considered one of the greatest threats to global public health and a serious threat to the developing country. Globally, maternal malnutrition is a problem faced by many countries and its consequences include acute and chronic diseases, abnormal development, and lack of economic productivity. Globally, nearly half of all deaths in children under 5 are attributed to poor nutritional practices of mothers, while 50% of postpartum women have inadequate dietary intake, leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as iron, iodine, and vitamin A (UNICEF, 2023). Moreover, in sub-Saharan Africa, the prevalence of anemia among mothers is estimated at 41.7%, further complicating postnatal outcomes (Global Nutrition Report, 2021). About 60% of lactating mothers experience dietary insufficiencies that hinder recovery from childbirth and increase their vulnerability to infections (WHO, 2023).
Taking into account the impact on the lives of mothers and babies, the World Health Organization (WHO) has formulated guidelines on postnatal care for mothers and their babies to reduce deaths during this critical period. These guidelines are especially important for promoting short- and long-term maternal health. Postnatal period is also a period that should receive the utmost care in the mother’s diet to improve the mother’s and child nutritional status. Poor dietary habits, such as inadequate caloric intake or lack of essential micronutrients like iron, folate, and vitamin D, can lead to complications such as anemia in mothers and stunted growth or developmental delays in children, while, increased caloric intake, along with protein, calcium, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and D, is essential for both maternal and child health. Lactating mothers require approximately 500 additional calories per day to produce adequate breast milk. It is also important for optimal breastfeeding, which is widely recommended for at least the first six months of an infant’s life, as it provides essential nutrients for growth and immunity.
IMPORTANCE OF POSTNATAL NUTRITIONAL
Proper postnatal nutritional practices help replenish nutrient stores depleted during pregnancy, reduces the risk of postpartum anemia, and promotes healing and energy restoration. Moreover, particularly exclusive breastfeeding, provide optimal nutrition and strengthen the immune system. Breast milk contains essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that are vital for growth, cognitive development, and protection against infections. Furthermore, good postnatal nutrition practices help prevent malnutrition in mothers and children, which is a significant contributor to maternal and child morbidity and mortality globally. Effective practices, including a balanced diet and micronutrient supplementation, can significantly improve maternal and child health outcomes.
TYPES OF POSTNATAL NUTRITION
• Consumption of Nutrient-Dense Foods: Mothers are often encouraged to consume foods rich in essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, protein, and vitamins, to replenish nutrient stores depleted during pregnancy and childbirth. These foods include leafy greens, dairy products, lean meats, and legumes.
• Increased Fluid Intake: Adequate hydration is critical for lactating mothers to support milk production. Traditional practices may emphasize the consumption of warm fluids, such as herbal teas or broths, believed to enhance milk flow.
• Cultural or Traditional Foods: Many cultures have specific dietary recommendations for postpartum women. These may include specific soups, porridges, or herbs considered beneficial for recovery and lactation.
• Exclusive Breastfeeding and Maternal Diet: Lactating mothers are advised to maintain a balanced diet that meets their increased caloric needs to support both maternal health and the nutritional demands of breastfeeding.
• Supplementation: Postnatal supplementation with micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, or vitamin D is recommended in some settings to address deficiencies and support maternal and infant health.
• Avoidance of Certain Foods: Some mothers avoid specific foods believed to cause colic or allergies in infants, based on cultural beliefs or personal experiences.
IMPORTANT NUTRIENTS DURING THE POSTNATAL PERIOD
• Calories: Breastfeeding mothers require additional calories to support milk production. The exact calorie needs vary depending on individual factors, but consuming a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is essential.
• Fluids: Staying hydrated is crucial for milk production and overall well-being. Drinking water, herbal teas, and consuming hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables can help maintain proper hydration levels.
• Vitamins and minerals: Continuing prenatal vitamins or taking postnatal supplements recommended by healthcare professionals can help ensure adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iodine.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important during the postnatal period as well, as they can support the baby's brain development and reduce the risk of postpartum depression in the mother. Including fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds in the diet can help meet the omega-3 fatty acid requirements.
• Iron and calcium: Adequate iron intake is important to replenish iron stores after childbirth and prevent anemia. Calcium continues to be necessary for maintaining bone health. Incorporating iron-rich foods and calcium sources into the diet can help meet these needs.
FACTORS INFLUENCING POSTNATAL NUTRITION
• Socio-demographic factors: Higher education is associated with better nutrition practices as educated mothers tend to have more knowledge about the importance of nutrition for both mother and child. Moreover, Low-income households may face financial constraints, affecting their ability to access nutritious foods.
• Cultural beliefs and practices: Cultural norms and practices can influence dietary choices, including restrictions on certain foods during the postnatal period. Also, family members, especially elders, may guide or influence postnatal nutrition practices, either positively or negatively.
• Access to healthcare and professional advice: Availability of postnatal care and nutrition counseling from healthcare workers can improve nutrition practices. However, mother's understanding of the importance of proper nutrition for recovery and breastfeeding can significantly influence her practices.
• Psychological and emotional factors: Postpartum depression or stress can impact the mother’s motivation to focus on nutrition and self-care.
• Breastfeeding practices: The practice of exclusive breastfeeding can enhance postnatal nutrition, providing essential nutrients to both mother and baby. In addition, challenges with breastfeeding, such as insufficient milk supply or painful breastfeeding, can impact a mother’s postnatal nutrition choices.
• Social support networks: A supportive partner can positively influence postnatal nutrition by helping with food preparation or emotional support. Other mothers or community groups can provide encouragement and share tips for maintaining healthy postnatal nutrition practices.
• Availability of nutritional food: Access to a variety of nutritious foods can influence the quality of postnatal nutrition. Furthermore, rural areas may face challenges in accessing fresh and diverse foods compared to urban settings.
PRACTICES AND CHALLENGES
Despite the recognized importance of postnatal nutrition, cultural, socioeconomic, and educational barriers often hinder optimal practices. In many low- and middle-income countries, traditional dietary restrictions during the postnatal period limit mothers' intake of certain foods, which can exacerbate nutritional deficiencies. Some cultures believe that consuming specific foods can affect the health of the mother or baby. For example, in some cultures, spicy foods are believed to cause harm to the baby or lead to discomfort for the mother. Also in many African and Asian cultures, cold foods (e.g., fruits, ice cream) are believed to cause "coldness" in the body, potentially leading to health issues like colic or indigestion for the baby. Moreover, financial constraints and lack of access to diverse foods contribute to malnutrition among postpartum mothers and their children.
IMPACT OF POSTNATAL NUTRITION ON MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH
Adequate postnatal nutrition is critical for maternal recovery and long-term health. Poor dietary practices can lead to postpartum complications such as delayed wound healing, postpartum depression, and chronic fatigue. Moreover, inadequate micronutrient intake increases the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases later in life. For children, the benefits of optimal maternal nutrition are profound. Infants rely on breast milk as their sole source of nutrition during the first six months of life. Breast milk quality and quantity are directly influenced by the mother's diet, with deficiencies potentially leading to suboptimal growth, weakened immunity, and increased susceptibility to infections. Long-term consequences of inadequate nutrition during infancy include impaired cognitive development and increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
POLICY AND INTERVENTIONS
Addressing postnatal nutrition requires a multifaceted approach, including education, healthcare support, and policy interventions. Healthcare providers play a critical role in promoting nutritional counseling and breastfeeding support during postnatal visits. Public health policies that provide financial support and access to nutritious foods for postpartum mothers, such as food supplementation programs, have proven effective in improving maternal and child health outcomes.
