Research & References
Our recipes are inspired by both traditional postpartum wisdom and modern nutritional science. Below are some of the research foundations that inform our approach.
Important Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Research evolves, and individual nutritional needs vary greatly. Our meals are designed to be nourishing and supportive, not to treat or prevent any medical condition. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance, especially during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Our Approach
We honor the wisdom of traditional postpartum practices from cultures around the world—from the Chinese "Sitting Month" (坐月子) to Latin America's "La Cuarentena" to Ayurvedic postpartum protocols. These traditions share common threads: rest, warmth, and deeply nourishing foods.
At the same time, we look to modern nutritional science to understand why these traditional foods may be beneficial. The research below represents a sampling of the scientific literature that informs our recipes, though it is by no means exhaustive.
We believe postpartum care is both an art and a science—and that the best approach combines ancestral wisdom with evidence-based nutrition.
References
Collagen peptide supplementation in combination with resistance training improves body composition and increases muscle strength in elderly sarcopenic men
Zdzieblik D, Oesser S, Baumstark MW, et al. • British Journal of Nutrition (2015)
Relevance: Supports the role of collagen in tissue repair and recovery, relevant to postpartum healing.
View SourcePrevalence and risk factors of postpartum anemia
Milman N. • Journal of Perinatal Medicine (2011)
Relevance: Demonstrates the prevalence of postpartum iron deficiency and importance of iron-rich foods.
View SourceProtein requirements during pregnancy and lactation
Elango R, Ball RO. • Advances in Nutrition (2016)
Relevance: Highlights increased protein needs during lactation for maternal health and milk production.
View SourceOmega-3 fatty acids and maternal mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Lin PY, Chang CH, Chong MF, et al. • Journal of Affective Disorders (2019)
Relevance: Reviews evidence linking omega-3 intake to improved mood outcomes in the perinatal period.
View SourceFermented foods, the gut and mental health: a mechanistic overview with implications for depression and anxiety
Aslam H, Green J, Jacka FN, et al. • Nutritional Neuroscience (2020)
Relevance: Explores the gut-brain connection and benefits of fermented foods for mental wellbeing.
View SourceTraditional postpartum practices and rituals: a qualitative systematic review
Dennis CL, Fung K, Grigoriadis S, et al. • Womens Health (2007)
Relevance: Documents cross-cultural traditions emphasizing rest, warmth, and nourishing foods postpartum.
View SourceThe first 40 days: The essential art of nourishing the new mother
Ou H, Greeven A. • Stewart, Tabori & Chang (2016)
Relevance: Foundational text on traditional postpartum care emphasizing rest and warming foods.
View SourceCurcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health
Hewlings SJ, Kalman DS. • Foods (2017)
Relevance: Reviews turmeric/curcumin benefits including anti-inflammatory properties relevant to recovery.
View SourceWater intake and hydration indices in healthy European adults
Ferreira-Pêgo C, Guelinckx I, et al. • European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2015)
Relevance: Highlights fluid needs, particularly relevant for breastfeeding mothers.
View SourceMaternal nutrition and fetal development: implications for infant and child health
Blumfield ML, Hure AJ, et al. • Nutrition Reviews (2012)
Relevance: Emphasizes importance of nutrient-dense foods for maternal health and milk quality.
View SourceAdditional Resources
Traditional Practices
Learn more about postpartum traditions from around the world and the common wisdom they share.
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