Written By Carolyn Tallents 

Congratulations mama! You just achieved the most incredible feat ever – you birthed a human. Now you’re home, settling into the new normal with a newborn, and you’re starving. The easiest thing is to reach for whatever is closest to you, especially since you’re probably stuck under a sleeping or nursing baby, but before you reach for something that might only satisfy you temporarily, try having one of these 5 snacks & small meals at the ready:

1. Oatmeal: it’s long been said that oats help with your milk supply, but in addition to that, they also pack a nutritious punch. Oatmeal is high in fiber and whole grains which will fill you up and keep you satisfied. If you can, make overnight oats that you can grab straight from the fridge the next day.

2. Hummus: chickpeas and tahini (the 2 main ingredients in hummus) are full of protein, fiber and healthy fats and are rich in vitamins and nutrients such as folate, iron and calcium. Pretty much the definition of a pre & postnatal superfood. Eat with veggies, whole grain crackers or spread on toast.

3. Avocados: versatile and nutritious, avocados are packed with healthy fats that help balance your hormones – essential for the days, weeks, and who are we kidding, months, after having a baby. Eat them with any meal or as a healthy snack, add to sandwiches, salads and of course – guac.

4. Quinoa: a great source of protein that can be made in a big batch and eaten all week long. Toss with some olive oil, salt and pepper and mix in any veggies you have in the fridge for a quick, healthy lunch.

5. Nut butter: not matter what your preference – peanut, almond, cashew, etc. – nut butters are a healthy fat that can be a quick way to get a nutritional boost, especially in the early days when you can’t stomach anything more than toast. Speaking of, spread nut butters on toast, apples, stir into oatmeal or if you’re anything like me, go straight in with a spoon…