ZUO YUE ZI
Zuo Yue Zi (坐月子) or “sitting the month” is when mothers stay home for an entire month to allow their body to properly heal and rest after a taxing 9+ months of pregnancy, labor, and delivery. This Chinese tradition has been practiced for over thousands of years and has been passed down from generation to generation. Zuo Yue Zi consists of practices that avoid energy exhaustion such as not doing household chores or standing for extended periods of time. Additionally, it includes other practices that prevent sickness such as staying warm and keeping all windows closed. Most importantly, Zuo Yue Zi consists of nourishing, protein-rich meals that promote body rebalance, milk production, and mental stability.
Our focus at Ma’s Oasis is to prepare meals that are non-greasy, high in protein, and low fat. We incorporate the use of natural Chinese medicinal herbs such as ginger, cordyceps flowers, jujubes, and many more that are crucial to recovery. Below are a few examples of nutritious meals that Ma’s Oasis provides for mothers.
Black Chicken Soup
Black chicken soup is rich in nutrients and prepared with a long list of medicinal herbs that strengthen new mother’s immune system and protects their body against diseases. This soup also helps warm their bodies (also known as qi or energy) to prevent them from getting sick and promotes better blood circulation.
Sweet Fermented Rice Wine Soup
Fermented rice wine soup has been known to help new mothers stimulate milk production due to its yeast, a natural galactagogue. Galactagogue increases the level of prolactin and acts as a lactation inducer. The fermentation of the rice has also been linked to enhance mother’s metabolism and gut health.
Millet Porridge with Pumpkin
Millet grains have a good source of vitamins and minerals that can protect mothers against heart failure and help lower cholesterol levels in the blood. This meal is often paired with pumpkin, eggs, or yams which are ingredients that help heal the body naturally.
Fish Filet with Snow Peas and Carrots
Fish is a popular protein prepared during Zuo Yue Zi as it is believed to rejuvenate the body and contribute to overall health. The nutrients from the fish pass through the breastmilk and are essential for the development of the baby's nervous system, brain, and eyes.
Wu Hong Tang
Wu Hong Tang (五红汤) which translates to “Five Red Soup” is composed of 5 key ingredients: Red Beans, Jujubes, Peanuts, Goji Berries, and Chinese Red Sugar. Each ingredient contain many nutritional values and benefits that help mothers expel Lochia discharge after giving birth and improve blood deficiency.
Important Disclaimer: The content on our site is for informational purposes only and should not be misconstrued as medical advice. Ma’s Oasis provides information on Chinese cultural practices and traditions. Please consult your doctor to understand what is safe for you.