Need Energy Back!!

This will sound counterintuitive but try to exercise if you can. I know, you're probably laughing at me thinking "Yeah right, lady! I got 2 kids and one is only 11 weeks old!". Even if you can manage to sneak in a 15 minute walking session, try to. You may find that it helps your energy levels.

Also, try avoiding junk food, processed foods and fast foods. They're typically nutritionally void and offer nothing for you but empty calories. Go for fresh fruits, veggies, lean meats and low fat dairy. Make sure you're getting enough iron (red meats, beans, legumes, etc.).

Good luck - I hear ya on the energy thing! My newborn is only 5 weeks old and I am totally looking forward to getting up only once a night. Hang in there!

I have to agree with M.R. It sounds crazy reccomending exercise to a mom who's sleep deprived but even a 15 min. brisk walk in the morning (or whenever is convenient) will actually give you more energy. Exercise stimulates the production of "feel good" hormones in your barin (either seratonin or neopenephrine - I can't remember) and it'll help you sleep better too. I realize it can be extremely difficult to get started but once you commit to it and make it part of your life you'll find you can't live without it. It'll also help you manage the stress that comes with your demanding life.

Try checking out the programming on Fit TV or Exercise TV to find a workout you can do at home.

Also, get help from the rest of the family with the kids so you get some well deserved time off for your self! Good luck with everything!

Many postpartum moms suffer from postpartum hypothyroid, there is such condition and will heal on its own in time. If you go to either doctor, have them check your vitamin and mineral levels particularly Vitamin B12 and D3, both are very crucial in energy production and nourishing the thyroid. I know plenty of women who get B12 shots and notice significant improvements in their energy levels (80% of us are deficient in this vitamin anyways).

Definitely when you are tired, we want more junky foods which also zaps our energy. Bring apples and almonds as snacks (apples are natural energy boosters). Even a simple PB&J half sandwhich is a good snack or PB and celery.

Good Luck!
J. W.
Maternal and Child Health Educator
Chicago Family Health Examiner
http://www.examiner.com/x-7158-Chicago-Family-Health-Exam...

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Have your thyroid checked. It may just be that your schedule is very difficult and January can be a low-energy time anyway, with the cold and lack of sun, but I have hypothyroidism, which is hard to diagnose. Good luck!

B., congrats on the birth of your son. As for the energy, I use supplements which might help you tremendously to balance out your body and increase energy. Please let me know if you would like more info. S.

What are your eating habits like? Many years ago I worked 3rd shift ( 11pm - 7am). It was a huge hit to the energy level, and I never really adjusted to it. I had a hard time eating at 2 in the morning, so I would eat breakfast foods, not lunch foods.

I would say stay well hydrated, try to get at least 7hrs of sleep every day ( if possible). Take vitamin supplements, and try not to eat junk food. I take a supplement called SAM-E. It helps give me a bit more energy when I need it. Also, exercise gives you an energy boost.

Hi,

I think some level of exhaustion is of course typical at this stage. However, if it continues, you may want to visit your doctor and get your thyroid levels checked. Pregnancy and childbirth can affect those.

Just a thought. Make sure you check your iron level. Anemia is very common after childbirth and can definately zap your energy. Hang in there!