The Journal

The Postpartum Journey

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Postpartum Weight Loss Recipes
Postpartum Resources
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Postpartum Gut Health: Why It Matters and How to Restore It Naturally

Feeling bloated or “off” since having your baby? Postpartum gut issues are incredibly common — and totally fixable. In this guide, postpartum dietitian Megan Brister explains why gut health matters for digestion, mood, energy, hormones, and even weight loss after birth. Learn what disrupts your microbiome during pregnancy and postpartum, how to recognize the signs of imbalance, and the most effective food-first strategies to restore gut health naturally (no cleanses, no fads).

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Probiotics and Breastfeeding: Are They Safe — and Do You Really Need Them?

Thinking about taking probiotics while breastfeeding? In this guide, registered dietitian Megan Brister breaks down the science behind probiotics, their safety for nursing moms, and when they actually help. Learn which symptoms probiotics may improve, when food-based options are enough, and how to choose a high-quality supplement that supports your digestion, immunity, and postpartum recovery — without risking your milk supply.

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How Long Does It Take to Lose Baby Weight? Here’s What You Really Need to Know

Wondering how long it takes to lose baby weight? The truth: there’s no set timeline — and that’s okay. In this evidence-based guide, registered dietitian Megan Brister explains what really affects postpartum weight loss, from hormones and breastfeeding to sleep and stress. Learn why quick fixes backfire, how to rebuild strength and energy safely, and what lasting progress looks like beyond the scale.

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Why Protein Matters for Breastfeeding Moms — And How to Get Enough Every Day

Always hungry while breastfeeding? Protein might be the missing piece. In this guide, registered dietitian Megan Brister explains why protein is essential for postpartum recovery, milk supply, and steady energy—and how to actually get enough each day. Learn how much protein breastfeeding moms need, easy high-protein foods and snacks, and how to use protein to support gentle, sustainable weight loss without restriction.

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Postpartum Nutrition Plans 101: Support Recovery and Weight Loss

Feeling lost about what to eat after having a baby? In this guide, registered dietitian Megan Brister breaks down everything you need to know about postpartum nutrition—what to eat to support recovery, balance hormones, and rebuild energy while protecting milk supply. Learn how to create simple, balanced meals (without calorie tracking), avoid common postpartum nutrition mistakes, and support gentle, sustainable weight loss when your body is ready.

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How Many Calories Should You Eat While Breastfeeding?

Wondering how many calories you should eat while breastfeeding? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. In this guide, registered dietitian Megan Brister breaks down how calorie needs truly work postpartum — from milk supply and metabolism to activity level and recovery. Learn how to eat enough to support energy, healing, and gentle weight loss without restrictive diets. Plus, discover signs you’re under-fueling, how to build balanced PFF meals, and when to seek personalized nutrition guidance.

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Gaining Weight While Breastfeeding? Here’s What’s Really Going On

If you’re gaining weight while breastfeeding, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong. In this evidence-based guide, registered dietitian Megan Brister explains why some moms hold onto or gain weight postpartum, even with healthy habits. Learn what’s really happening with your hormones, metabolism, and appetite, and how to use gentle nutrition strategies to support steady energy, milk supply, and realistic fat loss—without restriction or guilt.

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Fat Burners While Breastfeeding: Safe or Not?

Fat burners may sound like a quick fix for postpartum weight loss, but they aren’t safe while breastfeeding—and they won’t give you the results you truly want. In this post, you’ll learn why fat burners can be harmful to both you and your baby, the common mistakes that keep new moms stuck, and the safe, sustainable habits that actually support fat loss and a strong milk supply.

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Clair Schwem Clair Schwem

How Nutrition Can Help Postpartum Night Sweats

Postpartum night sweats can be surprising—and exhausting. They’re often a normal part of recovery as your hormones and fluid balance shift after birth. In this article, you’ll learn what causes them, why nutrition and hydration matter, and simple foods and habits that can help you feel more comfortable while your body finds its balance.

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Postpartum Weight Loss Resources Clair Schwem Postpartum Weight Loss Resources Clair Schwem

Water Retention After Birth: How Nutrition Can Help Reduce Postpartum Swelling

Still feeling swollen after birth? Postpartum water retention is common—but that doesn’t mean you have to wait it out. This blog breaks down why it happens, what makes it worse, and how gentle nutrition strategies can help reduce swelling, support healing, and restore energy—without detoxes or extremes.

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Understanding Postpartum Hormone Imbalance: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Postpartum hormone shifts are normal—but ongoing symptoms like low mood, sleep struggles, or extreme fatigue might signal an imbalance that needs more support. In this post, I break down what’s typical in postpartum recovery, what might be worth investigating further, and how you can begin supporting hormone health naturally with simple, practical steps.

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The Ultimate Postpartum Grocery List: Real Food for Real Recovery

Grocery shopping in the postpartum season can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. This guide shares a practical, nourishing grocery list to support your recovery with real food that’s easy to prepare, store, and enjoy.

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