Giving birth is a life-changing experience for any woman, and it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure a healthy recovery. In Singapore, one of the most important steps is to follow a special diet during the one-month period of confinement, also known as zuo yue zi. This special diet is made up of confinement foods aimed at specific functions such as dispelling the “wind” from the body, calming the heat, increasing blood circulation, increasing the mother's milk supply, and revitalizing strength.
Before we discuss the ingredients to consider for confinement foods in Singapore, let's first briefly discuss what confinement is. Confinement is a traditional practice that has been around for centuries in many cultures. It is a period of time when new mothers are encouraged to rest and take care of themselves after giving birth. During this time, they are advised to follow a special diet and take certain herbs and supplements to help them recover from childbirth.
The traditional Chinese diet for confinement consists mainly of old ginger, sesame oil, black vinegar, lots of meat and many more. These ingredients are intended to renew the body of a new mother with energy and nutrients. Some other foods that are believed to be beneficial for milk production include boiled fish soup with papaya, chicken cooked in sesame oil, and a traditional tonic made from 10 herbs.
Turmeric is full of nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, fiber, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. It helps fight infections and address indigestion problems. New moms who follow traditional Indian confinement practices take turmeric in a dish called Hariri to complement their meals. Black pepper is also considered a “hot” food that helps heal the body as many cultures believe that pores open during labour. Salmon is rich in protein which helps heal wounds and zinc which helps fight postpartum depression.
Pork liver is a great source of vitamin A and iron to replenish blood loss after childbirth. However, you should be careful to consume it in moderation as it is also high in cholesterol and uric acids. Almonds are rich in vitamin E which can help cure the itching of stretch marks. It also contains vitamin B12, omega 3 acids and high amounts of fibre to increase lactation and hormones for milk production.
Fruits are also important during confinement as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C which help with wound healing in the perineum and caesarean section by improving collagen formation. Some fruits to eat during confinement include brightly coloured fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, papaya, grapes, apples, longan, red dates, black dates, Medjool dates, kiwi, peach, strawberry, blackberries, cherry and guava.
In addition to proper nutrition and proper rest during confinement period, here are some essentials you need: a confinement nanny who can prepare red date teas to speed up healing process without causing other worrying issues; citrus fruits and vegetables abundant in vitamin C; proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, vitamins, fats and water; and most importantly - lots of rest!
If you have no idea where to start or what foods to eat during your confinement period in Singapore, you can approach a confinement agency or get professional confinement services from the Singapore Confinement Centre. Regardless of what you take or where you get your meals from during this crucial period - make sure you have the best confinement food that will help you recover quickly.
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