What I Ate This Week
Cut the crap already & just cut out all the crap!
Our gut microbes crave plant diversity, and when they’re thriving, we’re thriving🤩 that’s why I’m focusing on whole foods and eating a wide variety of plant foods while newly post partum. And it’s true, when you cut out all the crap, you start craving the good stuff!😮💨😋 I no longer want the cookies and donuts after dinner, I want the green grapes & cherries!
I didn’t eat very well the first 8 weeks after having my baby (all of my time and energy went into figuring out how to keep my baby alive!) but now that he has adjusted pretty well to how life works, I felt ready to get back on track with my gut health.
I’m currently working on lowering my insulin resistance and increasing my insulin sensitivity, and one of the ways I’m doing that is by adding a bunch of different plants to my diet. Let me know if you’re interested to know what other changes I’m making to lower my insulin resistance, I have a lot of tips!🫡
How many different plants do you eat each week?? I like to aim for 30-40! I got about 30 this week (snacks this week included cherries, raspberries, sunflower seeds, green grapes, almonds, raisins, & celery with pb)
#guthealth #gutfriendlyfoodideas #wholefoods #whatieatinaweek #insulinresistance
Postpartum nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting recovery and overall health, particularly when it comes to gut health and metabolic function. Incorporating a diverse range of whole plant foods can significantly improve the balance and diversity of gut microbes, which in turn enhances digestion, immunity, and even mental well-being. The author’s approach to eating 30-40 different plant foods weekly—including avocados, tomatoes, potatoes, coconut milk, various peppers, cilantro, seeds, nuts, beans, and fresh fruits like strawberries and cherries—illustrates the importance of variety in a gut-friendly diet. Research indicates that postnatal insulin resistance can be managed through diet by increasing insulin sensitivity. Nutrient-dense, fiber-rich plant foods slow glucose absorption and promote balanced blood sugar levels. Foods such as whole starches, legumes, nuts, and seeds provide important micronutrients and support beneficial gut bacteria growth. The author’s elimination of processed foods and refined sugars has led to natural cravings for healthier snacks—demonstrating how the gut microbiome's preferences evolve when fed nourishing foods. To maximize postpartum gut health, focus on whole foods with diverse plant-based ingredients, such as leafy greens, colorful vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and fermented products. Including a variety of spices and herbs like cilantro and jalapenos may further contribute anti-inflammatory benefits and improve digestion. Monitoring and increasing weekly plant diversity—from around a dozen to up to 40 unique plants—can yield substantial benefits for microbiome diversity and metabolic health. Additionally, staying hydrated, managing stress, and engaging in moderate physical activity complement dietary efforts to reduce insulin resistance and support overall postpartum wellness. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals can tailor these steps better to individual needs. By embracing a whole-food, plant-diverse approach postpartum, women can support their gut microbiota, improve insulin sensitivity, and foster long-term health for themselves and their families.
