8 Ways to Prevent Postpartum Depression While Breastfeeding

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Hey Mama, are you struggling with dipped moods, maybe calling it depression, anger, insomnia, and heart palpitations? Today, we're talking about how we can heal postpartum depression naturally, even if we've tried everything else.

If we haven't met yet, I'm Tara Gregorio, a certified women's herbal educator and Mama of twins. I'm also the creator of The Present Momma, where I help mothers like you recover from insomnia, anxiety, and depression naturally by getting to the root cause of why all of this is happening to us after childbirth. I want you to feel calm, focused, and full of energy.

Prevent Postpartum Depression Naturally

I'd love to know where you are on your journey. Have you had depression before, and you don't want it again? Or are you currently pregnant and just preparing for your best postpartum time ever? Let me know in the comments so I can help you the most.

Number one: I want you to maybe get tested for the MTHFR gene, and I'll leave some information below for you. What I'm noticing is that many of us who struggle with anxiety and depression after birth have this gene and are not taking methylated B vitamins. Here are three ways you may know you have this gene:

1. You've already had a miscarriage or a baby loss.

2. Medications, especially SSRIs, make you feel flat or numb.

3. You've had anxiety on and off your whole life and can't pinpoint why.

Postpartum Depression Vitamins

If you have this gene, methylated B vitamins can be incredibly helpful. When you get the right vitamins or supplements, you'll notice your energy boosts, and you won't have so much night waking.

Getting tested for the gene can be challenging. If you've done the 23andMe test, you may already have access to that information. Additionally, there's something called the 10x Health Fitness test with Gary Brecka, and they can inform you as well. Seeing a functional medicine doctor can also help, though the test costs about $400 out of pocket. However, there's no harm in taking a methylated B vitamin without the test. These vitamins just may cost a little bit more but are less expensive than getting the test.

What can help with postpartum depression?

•  What are your thoughts on healing PPD? Let me know in the comment area below. Ready to learn more? Swipe this FREE roadmap for a “root cause” approach to healing your body postpartum.  Get it HERE.

Postpartum Depression Alternative Treatments

1. Methylated B vitamins: These contain folate, not folic acid, which is essential if you have the MTHFR gene. Dr. Ben Lynch, who wrote the book Dirty Genes, recommends Seeking Health's prenatal vitamins.

2. Folate vs. folic acid: If you have the MTHFR gene, consume supplements and foods with folate rather than folic acid. Incorporate greens into your diet every day.

3. Vitamin D levels: Women with postpartum depression tend to have lower levels of vitamin D. Supplement with vitamin D prenatally and postnatally if your doctor agrees. Sun exposure without sunblock at 9 am can also help.

4. Zinc without copper: Women with postpartum depression often have higher copper levels. Supplement with high amounts of zinc without copper to help your mood.

5. Protein intake: Ensure you get enough protein, fat, and fiber. If you're a vegetarian, consider adding some animal protein or supplements to see if your energy improves.

6. Omega-3s: These are crucial for lifting your mood and can be found in fatty fish or supplements.

7. Ask for help: Make sure you have a support network of friends and family. Prioritize sleep and consider joining The Present Mama's 10-day Sleep Restore Boot Camp.

8. Sleep: Focus on getting good quality sleep to combat depression and anxiety. Address any sleep issues by looking at diet, supplements, and herbal/homeopathic remedies.

9. NEW! Add Progesterone, not progestin

If this blog was helpful to you, let me know in the comments what your number one takeaway was. If you're a natural mama wanting to prevent depression and anxiety after birth,

xo

Tara

P.S. Healing is possible. In The Postpartum Depression Relief Minicourse,  we dive into the first steps in healing PPD naturally.  Learn more HERE.

Reference:

1. Updated--How to test for MTHFR:https://www.seekinghealth.com/products/strategene-report

2. Supplements suggested:https://www.taragregorio.com/supplements

3. Seeking health supplements: https://www.seekinghealth.com/?rfsn=7442201.c38171&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=7442201.c38171

4. Learn more:https://www.taragregorio.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-postpartum-depression