First few months after your baby arrives are very demanding. And, most likely will leave you feeling drained and exhausted, making it near impossible to get enough rest and exercise. While both might have the effect on boosting your energy levels and relieving some of the stress you are experiencing. That is why, I am going to provide you with other sources that can refresh your brain and body without doing any extra effort. Boosting your mood and energy levels are what you need right now, and there are a lot of food items that can help you do that, and would also provide you with the right nutrients to back you up while breastfeeding. First of all, start with a balanced diet, and drink plenty of water. Try to make some time to sit down and have a quick healthy snack or meal. Balance is the key for a healthy breastfeeding diet and a relaxed lifestyle with your newborn .

Now, let us see what are the best mood boosting foods for new moms?

1. Water

Drinking a lot of liquids is probably the easiest thing people can do to keep their energy up. So, keep a water bottle or juice around with you to keep your milk production up but be careful when it comes to caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea. Try to limit your intake to two cups a day or switch to decaf, to avoid its effects on your baby while breastfeeding as well.  

2. Leafy green vegetables

Like spinach and broccoli. They have high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C and iron which are important for baby's growth. In addition to that they are a good non-dairy source of calcium, and filled with heart healthy antioxidants and are low in calories.

3. Salmon

This type of fish is loaded with a type of fat called DHA, which is crucial to the development of your baby's nervous system. DHA may also help your mood, it may play a role in preventing postpartum depression. Eating two main servings per week will be enough for you and your baby.

4. Dairy products.

Your diet during pregnancy must include generous amounts of dairy products, they are a rich source of vitamin B and D and they are the best sources of calcium; which is important for your baby's bone structure development and equally for the mommy's wellbeing. Try including at least three cups of dairy each day in your diet.

5. Legumes

They are a rich source of iron and proteins. Beans, peas, lentils, peanuts, kidney beans and black beans are a great breastfeeding food especially for vegetarians.

6. Fruits

Fruits are rich sources of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Apples, bananas, blueberries, oranges are great fruits to boost energy. Make sure to have three servings of fruits or juice every day.

7. Lean meat from fish, chicken and lean beef

These meats are rich in vital nutrients. They provide DHA and essential fatty acids to you and help in developing, your baby's nervous system and boosts overall growth. A lack of iron can drain your energy levels as well

8. Whole grains

Like oatmeal, brown rice and barley are fortified source of essential nutrients like vitamins, iron and other minerals. Do not cut back on carbs to help lose the baby weight. Losing weight too quickly may cause you to make less milk and leave you feeling sluggish.

9. Eggs

Eggs are a perfect source of meeting your body's regular protein requirement and are also a vital dietary source of vitamin D. Have two eggs as scrambled, hard boiled or omelet to boost the level of essential fatty acid in your milk.

10. Carrots

They are a vital source of beta carotene, antioxidants, potassium and carbohydrates which will help boost energy and stamina in breastfeeding moms. Breastfeeding moms require extra 500 - 600 calories every day. Once your baby starts on solid foods you will be producing less milk and then you can reduce your calorie intake. So, resist the urge to diet, eat small meals throughout the day, drink enough liquids every day, begin your day with a better breakfast and grab a piece of fruit. After, following these guidelines you will feel more energetic and happy, for sure.