How Does Nutrition Play A Role In Promoting Miscarriage Recovery?
Introduction
In Malaysia, loss of a pregnancy in the period of less than 22 weeks of gestation or a foetus weighing less than 500g is considered as miscarriage.
Symptoms of miscarriage
- Vagina bleeding
- Cramping and pain in lower abdomen
- Not to worry much if there is light vaginal bleeding during the first 3 months of pregnancy which not necessarily means a miscarriage (please consult doctor).
Nutrition For Recovery (Mini-confinement)
Well-balanced nutritious meals are crucial to support mother’s recovery after miscarriage.
Foods high in certain nutrients should be emphasized to speed up the healing process.
Protein-rich foods
Amino acids are required after miscarriage to recover and heal the wound.
Examples: Chicken, Fish, Pork, Egg, Tofu, Milk, Cheese, Beans, Peas, Tempeh
Vitamin C-rich foods
Vitamin C is needed to synthesize collagen, strengthen immunity and fights body inflammation.
Examples: Capsicum, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Spinach, Brussels Sprouts, Tomato, Red Dates
Iron-rich foods
Iron helps to replenish blood loss from miscarriage as well as to improve “Qi” of body.
Examples: Pork, Egg, Oysters, Peas (Black-eyed peas, Chickpeas, Green Peas), Green Leafy Vegetables (Spinach & Kale), Red Dates, Gojiberries
Magnesium-rich foods
Magnesium may help to reduce post-miscarriage stress and anxiety.
Examples: Meat, Milk, Egg, Nuts (Cashews, Almond), Beans, Peas, Tofu, Spinach
Omega 3- rich foods
Can take days after miscarriage for anti-inflammatory effects & heart health.
Examples: Mackerel, Salmon, Oysters, Walnut, Flaxseed, Chia Seed
Water
Drinking enough fluid is also important to hydrate the body in supporting body healing.
Examples: Plain Water, Nourishing Soups, Fruit Juice, Tea
SUMMARY
Having a well-balanced nutrition-dense meal and hydration would help to speed up post-miscarriage recovery.
Article written by:
Foo Kai Li
Nutritionist
Registered Member of Nutrition Society Malaysia (NSM)
REFERENCES
- NHS (2018). Overview Miscarriage. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/miscarriage/
- MyHealth Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (2019). Miscarriage. Retrieved from http://www.myhealth.gov.my/en/miscarriage/
- Villines, Z. (2021). High iron vegetables for vegetarians and vegans: 10 of the best
- Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/high-iron-vegetables
- Hjalmarsdottir, F. (2019). 12 Foods That Are Very High in Omega-3. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-omega-3-rich-foods