Читать книгу Informed Choices in Motherhood - Fiona Lee - Страница 37

Supplementation is very specific to the individual, which is why it’s a good idea to see a naturopath or other holistic health practitioner to determine the supplements that your body requires. There is one supplement, however, that can be amazing for all pregnant mothers to take to assist them in having a healthy labor.

You may have already heard of the benefits of taking Red Raspberry Leaf tea during pregnancy. Known widely as the “the woman’s herb” red raspberry leaf tea contains the alkaloid ‘fragine’, which can help strengthen the uterus and pelvic area. It’s high in vitamins C, E, A and B and also has large amounts of minerals including magnesium, potassium, calcium and phosphorous.

I’m convinced that it works, not only because there is actual research to back it up, but also because I’ve heard from so many mothers who have had positive experiences with it. One study found that it can help to reduce labor time and resulted in fewer medical interventions, including cesearians.⁴³ It's also been known to reduce pain during labor and after birth. Labor may be shorter and less painful due to the effect it has on toning the muscles used during labor and birth. Red raspberry leaf can be taken as a tea or in tablet form, and the general recommendation for optimal results is to take it in tablet/capsule form from 32 weeks gestation. It is recommended that pregnant women don’t consume it any time before the third trimester.