The Best Postpartum Meals, According to Nutritionists and Moms

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something like running a nine month-long ultramarathon. It's no wonder nutritionists and moms place so much emphasis on the postpartum meals that will refuel you after crossing the finish line. “The process of growing and birthing a baby is incredibly taxing on the body,” says , a registered dietician nutritionist, board certified lactation consultant, and certified intuitive eating counselor. “Because of this, nutrient needs are increased during the postpartum period to rebuild and replete lost nutrient stores—regardless of whether or not .” But nutrition needs are only one part of the postpartum equation for birthing parents.

Finding time to grab a handful of Cheez-Its on your way to your one precious shower of the week can feel like a minor miracle—finding time to prepare a delicious postpartum recipe, an utter impossibility.

And meal planning? Forget it.“An ideal postpartum meal should, first and foremost, be easy to prep and eat,” says , a registered dietitian nutritionist and author of .  “While it would be nice if new moms can sit down and enjoy a home-cooked balanced meal three times a day, the reality is that between all there is to juggle, a relaxing dining experience isn't common.”Whether you're giving birth yourself or supporting someone who is, here's everything you need to know about postpartum nutrition needs, the best foods to support lactation, and the nourishing postpartum meals moms and nutritionists recommend.

The best postpartum meals have one thing in common: They support healing. “Regardless of whether the baby was delivered via a c-section or vaginally, mom needs to heal,” says Manaker.