When it comes to pregnancy, people become over cautious about health, environment, mental health, etc., and being over-anxious during a pandemic is natural. Pregnant women are more vulnerable to viral infections due to modulation of the immune system leading to differential responses. Evidence suggested that risks of SARS-CoV-2 in pregnancy are similar to that with general population. WHO indicates that pregnant women who are older, overweight, or have pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes are at particular risk of serious outcomes of COVID-19.
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) also mentioned that majority of pregnant women with COVID-19 were in their third trimester when admitted to the hospital. Therefore, it’s clearly indicated that women pregnant at 28 weeks or beyond are at highest risk.
Returning to a “normal” pre-pregnant immune state after child may take as long as an year after the birth. Most mothers are concerned about staying well as immune system is directly impacted by factors like childbirth, high level of stress, altered sleeping patterns, etc. During the early postpartum phase, a woman’s body works overtime to restore & repair itself; while some might take the slow & steady path, for others, it might be a complete U-turn bringing body back to the pre-pregnancy immunity.
WHO suggests that our diet can significantly impact our body’s ability to prevent, fight & recover from infections. For mothers recovering from childbirth, immune system requires the support of many nutrients and several macro nutrients (protein, whole-carbohydrates, and essential fats) & micro nutrients (calcium, iron, folate, iodine, selenium, zinc, vitamin A, C, D, E, etc.) to replenish stores during postpartum phase.
Nutritional Goals for New Mothers
Postpartum nutrition should emphasize on a well-balanced diet using whole foods to provide both mother & baby the best nutrition possible, especially during the pandemic period. Nutrition goals should focus on optimal recovery, quality eating & maintaining hydration. Give yourself time to heal as a well-rested body recovers better.
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