Image: Instagram/@sarahlahbati
Second-time mommy Sarah Lahbati welcomed baby Kai with actor Richard Gutierrez last March 21. Lahbati had shared before how being pregnant for the second time is different as they already knew what to expect, but there are things that still remain the same in some aspects: post-pregnancy recovery.
Lahbati took to her blog sarahlahbati.com last April 18 to share with fellow mommies the things that helped her after pregnancy. “While I was pregnant, there were so many things that made it easier: gadgets, products, apps, and the like. Now, for the most part, I am relying on more natural things to help me get through the postpartum recovery period.”
High-fiber food is on top of Lahbati’s list, as it is recommended by doctors to load up on nutritious whole foods. “Eating these types of food will help you shed the baby weight faster since you won’t always be able to go back to regular exercise immediately,” advised Lahbati. “They also have nutrients that will help you be more mentally alert. You cannot just go back to an old diet immediately.”
Image: Instagram/@sarahlahbati
Lahbati also lauded the benefits of breastfeeding. “I’m honestly a believer!” gushed Lahbati. “Moms benefit from breastfeeding, too! It speeds up postpartum healing, helps contract the uterus, helps in shedding excess baby weight, and promotes overall emotional health. Breastfeeding also helps you create a better bond with your baby.”
“Eating more malunggay or taking malunggay supplements a few weeks before giving birth can kick-start the production of breastmilk,” added Lahbati.
Another thing she recommends is a sitz bath, a warm shallow bath where only one’s hips and butts are immersed in the water. Apart from cleansing the genital area, Lahbati shared that sitz baths also encourage blood flow to promote healing. “It can also relieve itching and irritation that can happen. You can have a sitz bath with plain warm water, or you can add salt or iodine for better cleansing.”
Lastly, support from friends and family. Motherhood is no easy task, and a little help from loved ones can go a long way. “From pregnancy to birth to post-pregnancy, I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that I am getting by with so much help from my loving family,” admitted Lahbati, mentioning that partner Gutierrez has been a trooper in helping her manage the house and take care of their eldest son, Zion.
Lahbati’s parents and in-laws have also been her rock, as they visit her regularly to spend time and offer help. “It means the world that we have great friends, family, and fans who let us know of their support during this time.” /ra
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