Calcium-Rich Foods After Delivery & The Importance of DHA in Postpartum Diets

By Team Fitmoms

Updated on 2 April 2025

A new mother enjoying a balanced meal with calcium and DHA-rich foods.

The postpartum period is a crucial time for a mother’s recovery. After childbirth, the body needs proper nourishment to heal, restore strength, and support breastfeeding. Two essential nutrients that play a key role in postpartum health are calcium and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Calcium helps maintain bone density and aids in overall recovery, while DHA supports brain health, emotional stability, and infant development through breastfeeding.

In this guide, we will explore the best calcium-rich foods after delivery, why DHA is essential for postpartum mothers, and how to incorporate these nutrients into a daily diet.

Why Calcium is Essential for New Mothers

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, a mother’s calcium stores are used to support the baby’s bone development. If calcium intake is inadequate, the body draws from the mother's bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and weakening bone health later in life.

Benefits of Calcium in the Postpartum Period

1. Supports Bone Health - Helps maintain strong bones and prevents osteoporosis.
2. Aids Muscle Function – Prevents cramps, fatigue, and muscle weakness.
3. Regulates Blood Pressure – Essential for cardiovascular health.
4. Enhances Breast Milk Production – Ensures proper nutrient transfer to the baby.

A mother holding a glass of milk while sitting with her baby.

Best Calcium-Rich Foods for Postpartum Mothers

To replenish calcium levels naturally, incorporate the following foods into your diet:

1. Dairy Products

Milk
Yogurt
Cheese
Paneer (Cottage cheese)

2. Leafy Green Vegetables

Spinach
Kale
Fenugreek leaves (Methi)
Mustard greens (Sarson)

3. Nuts and Seeds

Almonds
Sesame seeds
Chia seeds
Flaxseeds

4. Legumes and Beans

Chickpeas
Lentils
Black beans

5. Fish and Seafood

Sardines (with bones)
Salmon
Prawns

6. Fortified Foods

Calcium-fortified plant-based milk (Soy, Almond, Oat milk)
Fortified cereals
Orange juice with added calcium

A spread of calcium-rich foods, including dairy, leafy greens, nuts, and fortified orange juice.

The Importance of DHA in Postpartum Nutrition

DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is crucial for brain function and development. It plays a vital role in postpartum mental well-being and supports infant cognitive and visual development through breast milk.

Why Postpartum Moms Need DHA

1. Supports Brain Health – Reduces brain fog, improves memory, and aids cognitive function.
2. Helps Prevent Postpartum Depression – Studies show DHA can enhance mood stability and lower the risk of depression.
3. Promotes Infant Development – Essential for baby’s brain and eye development during breastfeeding.
4. Supports Heart Health – Regulates cholesterol levels and improves cardiovascular function.

Best DHA-Rich Foods for New Mothers

1. Fatty Fish (Best Natural Source of DHA)

Salmon
Mackerel
Sardines
Tuna (Limited intake advised due to mercury content)

2. Nuts and Seeds

Walnuts
Chia seeds
Flaxseeds

3. DHA-Fortified Foods

Fortified eggs
DHA-enriched dairy products
Fortified cereals

4. Algal Oil (Plant-Based DHA Source)

Algal oil supplements are a great vegetarian alternative for DHA.

How to Include Calcium and DHA in Your Daily Diet

To ensure adequate intake of these essential nutrients, follow a balanced meal plan:

Sample Daily Meal Plan for New Mothers

Breakfast

Scrambled eggs with spinach and whole wheat toast
Chia seed pudding with almond milk
A glass of fortified orange juice

Lunch

Grilled salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli
Paneer and lentil curry with brown rice
Mixed greens salad with sesame dressing

Snack

A handful of almonds and walnuts
Yogurt with flax seeds and honey
DHA-fortified smoothie with banana and spinach

Dinner

Chickpea and vegetable stir-fry with roti
Grilled mackerel with mashed sweet potatoes
Fortified cereal with oat milk

A healthy postpartum meal with eggs, yogurt, and chia seeds.

Should You Take Calcium and DHA Supplements?

While a well-balanced diet provides sufficient nutrients, supplements can be beneficial, especially for mothers with dietary restrictions.

When to Consider Supplements

If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan (calcium supplements may be needed)
If you don’t consume fish (DHA supplements can be taken)
If your doctor recommends additional intake due to deficiency

Recommended Dosage

Calcium:1,000-1,200 mg per day
DHA: 200-300 mg per day

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Final Thoughts

Ensuring adequate calcium and DHA intake is one of the most important steps postpartum mothers can take to support their physical recovery, mental well-being, and infant development. By including calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, nuts, and legumes, and consuming DHA from fatty fish, seeds, and fortified foods, new mothers can maintain optimal health and energy levels.

Taking a holistic approach to postpartum nutrition will not only help mothers recover faster but also provide long-term benefits for their overall well-being and their baby’s development.