Pregnancy and childbirth are unique experiences, but they can also take a toll on a mom's body, especially with all the hormone shifts. Levels of estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, and more can change quickly, often leaving new moms feeling tired, emotional, and a bit out of balance. This period demands plenty of care and support to help moms adjust and feel their best.

If you're you're navigating the postpartum period and dealing with hormone-related challenges, you're you're not alone. The good news is that proven strategies help rebalance your hormones and reclaim your energy, mood, and overall well-being. In this guide, we'll cover 7 effective ways to naturally restore hormonal harmony after having a baby.

1. Prioritize Self-Care

Prioritizing self-care after giving birth is essential for maintaining hormone balance. Set up daily routine activities that boost your mental and physical health, like walking or gentle exercises.

Here are some helpful self-care practices to consider:

• Get quality sleep, aiming for 7-9 hours per night
• Eating a nutrient-rich diet to support hormone health
• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Engaging in gentle movements like walking, yoga, or swimming
• Trying stress management techniques such as meditation or deep breathing

Adding these self-care habits into your daily routine can support your body's natural hormone balance as you recover postpartum.

2. Supplement with Strategic Nutrients

Specific vitamins, minerals, and herbs can be incredibly helpful in restoring hormonal balance after childbirth. Some essential supplements to consider include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil or algae supplements)
• Magnesium
• Vitamin B6
• Zinc
• Ashwagandha
• Maca root

Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you're breastfeeding.

3. Manage Stress Levels

Stress can seriously destroy your hormone balance, affecting cortisol, thyroid hormones, and even reproductive hormones. Supporting your hormones means finding ways to ease stress, such as:

• Practicing meditation or mindfulness to help clear your mind
• Doing gentle yoga or calming stretches to relax your body
• Using deep breathing exercises to lower stress levels
• Walking outside to feel grounded and refreshed
• Engaging in hobbies or creative outlets that bring you joy

Remember, you're navigating a significant transition - be patient and compassionate with yourself.

4. Support Gut Health

The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in hormone regulation. Nourish your gut with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. You can also consider a high-quality probiotic supplement. Avoiding processed foods, sugary treats, and unnecessary medications (when possible) can also help maintain a healthy gut.

5. Optimize Liver Function

The liver is responsible for metabolizing and clearing excess hormones from the body. Support your liver health by:

• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Eating cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts
• Incorporating liver-supportive herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and milk thistle 

6. Manage Blood Sugar Levels

Stable blood sugar is essential for hormonal balance. Eat a diet rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats to help keep your blood sugar levels in check. Avoid processed, high-sugar foods that can contribute to hormonal imbalances.

7. Consider Herbal Remedies

Certain herbs have been used for centuries to support women's hormonal health. Some women explore include:

• Black cohosh for managing hot flashes and mood swings
• Evening primrose oil for PMS and cramps
• Chasteberry (also known as vitex) for regulating the menstrual cycle

Consult your medical provider before trying any herbal supplements, especially if you're breastfeeding.

Restoring your ideal harmony after having a baby takes time and patience, but it's worth it. Incorporating that strategy into your postpartum self-care routine can help your body find its natural balance and feel your absolute best.

Ready to improve your postpartum hormone health? Check out our Postpartum Shift, and you'll receive the tools and support you need to reach your postpartum health goals and feel like yourself again without sacrificing your milk supply or favorite foods.