Have you ever wondered why you’re still so hungry after having a baby, or why postpartum recovery feels heavier than you expected?

For many mums, the early months after birth are a mix of healing, feeding, broken sleep and trying to make sense of advice that often feels confusing or contradictory. Especially when food and blood sugar have already felt closely monitored during pregnancy.

This episode is part of The Science of Motherhood Summer Series, where Dr Renee White revisits some of your most listened to conversations, the ones that help you feel calmer, more informed, and less alone.

In this replay, Renee is joined by Lily Nichols, a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, researcher and author, known for her evidence based approach to prenatal and postpartum nutrition. Together, they unpack what the research actually shows about postpartum nutrient needs, breastfeeding hunger, and recovery after gestational diabetes.

It’s a steadying conversation that offers clarity without pressure, and context for why your body might be asking for more right now.

You’ll hear about:

Why postpartum hunger can feel intense and persistent, especially while breastfeeding
How pregnancy and breastfeeding draw on nutrient stores, and which ones are commonly depleted
Why protein needs are higher postpartum than many mums are told
What follow up after gestational diabetes is actually for, and why constant monitoring isn’t always needed
How to think about food, rest and recovery in a way that supports your body, not controls it

If postpartum nutrition or life after gestational diabetes has felt confusing, overwhelming, or loaded with pressure, this episode offers reassurance and evidence to help you breathe out.

Links and Resources

📲 Want to chat more about this? Connect with Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_

🌐 Want to learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services

🍪 If you want to gobble up our famous Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies, look no further!

📲 Follow Lily on Instagram: @lilynicholsrdn

🌐 Explore Lily’s work and resources: lilynicholsrdn.com

📘 Learn more about her bestselling book: realfoodforpregnancy.com

🎧 If this episode gave you a little more clarity or confidence, share it with a fellow mum or mama-to-be. And don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by the Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.

Nothing contained in this podcast is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.