91. Postpartum Nutrition, Body Image & Breastfeeding: What Most Advice Gets Wrong

In this powerful and honest conversation, Joelle and Alessandra dive deep into the often misunderstood world of postpartum nutrition. From unrealistic expectations around "bouncing back" to the pressure of breastfeeding and navigating body image shifts, they unpack the layered challenges new moms face. You'll learn why the "eat less, move more" approach doesn't work postpartum, how to support your body with fiber, protein, and adequate calories, and why mental health and self-compassion are non-negotiable. Whether you're in the thick of postpartum or supporting someone who is—this episode offers practical tools, powerful mindset shifts, and a much-needed reality check on what it really means to heal, nourish, and thrive after birth. APPLY FOR COACHING: https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching SDE Method app: https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app The Fitness League Waiting List https://quest.lvltncoaching.com/project-b Macros Guide https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros Join the Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey: https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies Alessandra's Instagram: http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik Joelle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn Josh's Instagram: http://instagram.com/joshscutnik Chapters: 00:00 Welcome Back to the Girls' Room 02:08 Diving into Postpartum Nutrition 04:24 Breastfeeding and Fat Loss: The Nuances 09:16 The Myths of Breastfeeding and Weight Loss 11:26 Caloric Expenditure and Hunger Postpartum 16:32 Key Nutrients for Postpartum Nutrition 20:32 The Importance of Fiber in Postpartum Health 23:26 Understanding Individual Experiences in Postpartum 24:14 Health vs. Deficit Behaviors Postpartum 27:25 Balancing Self-Care and Motherhood 29:37 Navigating Postpartum Expectations 33:25 Assessing Readiness for Postpartum Fat Loss 36:48 Foundations for Successful Weight Management 38:32 Understanding Body Composition Changes 43:13 Balancing Performance and Recovery 49:11 Exercise and Milk Supply Myths 51:22 Caloric Adjustments After Breastfeeding 54:06 The Importance of Individualized Postpartum Care