Have your carrots and cupcakes too!

When starting any exercise program nutrition is just as important as the exercise itself. For a new mum it is even more important as the energy levels need to be maintained to keep up with taking care of their baby and everyone else around you.

If you have had a caesarean section excess weight in the tummy area will often cause an overhang to occur around the scar, which will not help with the healing process. By being aware of what you are putting in to your body you can manage your weight and still maintain your energy levels.

This section is not about going on a diet! It is about balance and allowing yourself to eat a variety of food including fresh fruit and vegetables, carbohydrates, protein and fat.

Carbohydrates will fuel your body with energy, provided you are eating good sources such as wholemeal bread, pasta, wholegrain rice, cereals and oats. Refined carbohydrates found in foods such as biscuits, crisps, white bread, cakes and sweets shouldn't be cut out completely, but limited to treats and special occasions. 

Protein will promote muscle strength and help with the healing process post delivery. Good sources of protein include lean meats such as chicken, turkey, lean cuts of beef, fish, nuts, lentils and beans.

Fat is also important as it provides essential amino acids for the body. Keep an eye on your saturated fat content though, as this is the hardest type of fat for your body to process. Eat sources rich in unsaturated fats such as olive oil, avocado, nuts and oily fish.

Snacking is key to keeping energy levels stable, provided it doesn’t involve polishing off a packet of biscuits in one day! Choose good snack foods that will maintain your energy levels throughout the day and by doing this you will be less likely to over eat at meal times or over indulge on not so healthy options.

Check out the Recipes page for yummy ideas on snacking!