Namita Nayyar:
What advice would you give to new mothers struggling to regain fitness confidence after childbirth?
Danni Levy:
Remember, your new child is your greatest asset. Baby first, body second. That said, if you don’t feel good about yourself, it’s sometimes hard to be the best possible mom. Find a coach or support group of women who’ve been there or are in the same boat and set yourself incremental challenges that fit into your new (and sometimes seemingly impossible) schedule.
Walking for at least an hour every day with the stroller may sound simple, but it’s the best meditation and physical activity and great for your baby too.
Enjoy an iron-rich diet and get cooking new things for the family that nourish your body and allows you to spend time at home with your little one whilst rewarding yourself.
Don’t pull the denim mini shorts out of the cupboard during week one and kick yourself if they’re tight. I always say it’s best to do something when you’re sure than set yourself up for disappointment. I had zero expectations of what my postpartum body would look like, and I can honestly say that due to my consistency, I walked out of the hospital almost the same as I had walked in on my 5-week scan. Act big, dream small, then you’ll always exceed yourself!
Namita Nayyar:
Are there specific foods or habits you advise avoiding during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Danni Levy:
Yes. I have an eBook available on this, which I make available to anyone who writes to me and asks for it, but you should avoid (or limit) foods like blue-veined cheeses, swordfish, and cold-cured meats, amongst other things. You should of course avoid (or drastically limit) caffeine and alcohol too. This is something I thought I’d find difficult but actually, I found out I was pregnant because during a work trip to LA, I found I wasn’t enjoying my usual morning coffee and didn’t fancy my red wine on the plane home, so I did a test during my layover in the airport toilets. I was shocked when I found out. Anyway, the moral of the story is that your body generally adapts itself to let you know what you should and shouldn’t eat or drink. Our bodies are so, so clever.
Namita Nayyar:
Which supplements do you recommend for prenatal and postnatal health, and how do you ensure they’re safe and effective?
Danni Levy:
Vitamin D, folic acid, calcium, iron, B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Zinc, among others. You can’t always be “perfect” and take them all or get it all exactly right, but these supplements, in the right quantities taken at optimal times, can help. I also have an eBook on this.
Namita Nayyar:
What red flags should people watch for when choosing pregnancy-related supplements?
Danni Levy:
Gosh, there are so many supplement scams on the market. I always avoid anything that doesn’t come with a personal recommendation from someone I know or respect who says they’re used it themselves.
Namita Nayyar:
Pregnancy often brings skin changes (e.g., melasma, dryness). What are your go-to strategies or products for managing these?
Danni Levy:
I used Bio Oil to prevent stretch marks and didn’t get any at all. For body, I always find the blue Nivea cream works wonders and it’s so reasonably priced. I’m not really into all these “innovative” and expensive lotions and potions. Oldies are Goldie’s!
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
