Why should I consume my placenta?
Consuming and honoring your placenta after birth is an ancient tradition, found in cultures on every continent. Humans are the only mammals that do not automatically/instictively consume the placenta after birth! The placenta contains stem cells, iron, vitamins B6 and E, oxytocin and corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) and amino acids called cytokines. These nutrients help repair your body after childbirth. In a normal vaginal delivery, women lose 1/10-1/8 of their blood supply, causing iron-deficiency anemia, which leads mothers to feeling exhausted and emotionally fragile. The iron in the placenta replaces the iron and helps the body recover more quickly! Vitamin B6 provides antibodies that helps protect the mother from infection, while vitamin E helps your skin heal quickly after birth- both the uterine wound (caused when the placenta detached after birth) and any tears in your perineal region that may have occurred while birthing. Oxytocin, the love hormone, helps breast milk come in faster and aids in the bonding between mother and baby. Along with CRH, which reduces stress levels, it also helps mama feel more relaxed.
Several studies have found that consuming the placenta after childbirth reduces the risk of postpartum depression, reduces the risk of iron-deficiency anemia and increases milk supply and energy levels.
You may have heard childbirth referred to as "a marathon."
If childbirth is a marathon, then your placenta is the gatorade you consume afterward to replenish and repair your body!
Several studies have found that consuming the placenta after childbirth reduces the risk of postpartum depression, reduces the risk of iron-deficiency anemia and increases milk supply and energy levels.
You may have heard childbirth referred to as "a marathon."
If childbirth is a marathon, then your placenta is the gatorade you consume afterward to replenish and repair your body!