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Press Release

OCBC Business App Helps SMEs Boost Sales by 25%

Photo credit by OCBC

A recent article in The Straits Times highlighted how the OCBC Business app helped RichFood Catering, a catering company, experience a significant increase in sales. After using the app to track their monthly spending, sales, and cash flow, the owner, Nigel Kok, spotted a sudden surge in orders. He promptly increased the marketing budget for the popular menu, resulting in a remarkable 25% boost in sales.

The OCBC Business app offers comprehensive insights into a company’s finances, including alerts on foreign currency rates and incoming funds. This information helps SME owners like Mr. Kok make informed business decisions. With its user-friendly interface and real-time data, the app helps SMEs navigate the competitive F&B industry and streamline their operations.

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Confinement Tips

Confinement Tips for new moms – The first 6 weeks

We believe it is essential to have a confinement recommendation for new moms to help make those first few weeks easier. 

Becoming a new mom is a life-changing experience that can be both exciting and overwhelming.

The first six weeks after giving birth are particularly challenging as you adjust to your new role and care for your newborn.

Our earnest request to you as a new mom, take care of yourself as well as your newborn during those first few weeks. 

In this blog post, we’ll give ideas and confinement techniques for new parents to help make those first six weeks feel less difficult.

  • Accept help from others
  • Get as much rest as you can
  • Don’t be afraid to ask
  • Take care of your mental health
  • Prepare for breastfeeding challenges
  • Stock up on baby essentials
  • Give yourself grace
a dad and mum playing with their newborn

Embrace support from loved ones during confinement as a new mom

One of the most important things you can do in the first six weeks is to accept help from others.

This could mean having family members or friends come over to help with chores or taking care of your baby while you rest. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed, and try to prioritise self-care as much as possible.

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed as a new parent, and accepting help can make a huge difference in your overall well-being.

You can consider seeking help from a lactation consultant or postpartum helper/doula for support with breastfeeding or emotional well-being in addition to household tasks.

Always remember that self-care is not selfish, but rather essential for your own health and your baby’s health.

Here are a few tips to prioritise self-care in those first few weeks:

  • Take short naps whenever possible to catch up on sleep.
  • Make sure to eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated.
  • Try to get outside for a short walk or even just some fresh air.
  • Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help reduce stress and anxiety.
a mum sleeping with her newborn - Confinement Tips for new moms

Get as much rest as you can

Speaking of self-care, getting enough rest is crucial during the first six weeks. Newborns require round-the-clock care but try to nap when your baby naps and take advantage of any opportunities to get some extra sleep.

If possible, ask your partner or a family member to help with nighttime feedings, so you can get a longer stretch of sleep.

Apart from obtaining adequate sleep, there are several additional self-care routines that might be beneficial. Consider the following suggestions:

  • Take the time to eat regular, healthy meals. This can be challenging with a new baby, but it’s important to nourish your body so you have the energy to care for your little one.
  • Make time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. Take a relaxing bath, read a book, or go for a walk around the block. This can help you recharge and feel more centered.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s from your partner, family members, or friends, having a support system can make all the difference. You don’t have to do everything on your own.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Breastfeeding moms, in particular, need to stay well-hydrated to ensure an adequate milk supply.
  • Try to get some gentle exercise, such as a short walk or some stretching. Exercise can help boost your mood and energy levels.
a tired mum cuddling her newborn - Confinement Tips for new moms

Be willing to ask for help during the confinement period

Being a new mom can be stressful, and you may be concerned about your own recovery as well as your baby’s health and growth.

You should not be afraid to seek assistance and resources from your healthcare professional. Additionally, there are many other resources available that can provide valuable support.

Some option includes:

  • Joining a local or online new moms group. This may be an excellent support system as well as a forum for sharing experiences and asking about challenges.
  • Reading parenting and baby-care books or articles. There is an abundance of information available on topics such as consuming food, sleep, and baby development.
  • Reaching out to family and friends who have experience with parenting. They may have valuable advice and insights to share.

Prioritize your emotional wellbeing during the postpartum period

Postpartum depression and anxiety are common among new moms, so it’s important to prioritise your mental health during the first six weeks.

This could mean talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or simply making time for activities that help you feel relaxed and happy.

a mum breast feeding her newborn - Confinement Tips for new moms

Prepare for nursing challenges while adjusting to confinement as a new mom

Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to bond with your baby, but it can also come with challenges. Many new moms experience sore nipples, difficulty latching, and other issues. Be prepared by taking a breastfeeding class, talking to a lactation consultant, and having nursing supplies like nipple cream and breast pads on hand.

Breastfeeding is an important aspect of nurturing your newborn, and while it can be rewarding, it can also be a challenging experience. Here are some additional tips that may be helpful:

  • Practice proper positioning: Ensuring that your baby is positioned correctly during breastfeeding can make all the difference. Make sure your baby’s entire body is facing you, and their head and body are aligned. This can help prevent sore nipples and other issues.

  • Take breaks: Breastfeeding can be tiring for both you and your baby, so it’s important to take breaks when needed. If your baby falls asleep during feeding, gently detach them and allow them to rest. You can resume feeding once they wake up.

  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is important for milk production and your overall health. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or other healthcare provider for assistance. They can provide guidance and support.

a stockpile of baby diapers neatly arranged - Confinement Tips for new moms

Stock up on baby essentials to relieve pressure during seclusion as a new mother

In the first six weeks, you’ll be going through a lot of diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials. Stock up ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about running out.

Consider setting up a diaper changing station in your home with all the supplies you need to reach within. For new parents, it’s vital to expect the number of diapers and wipes that a newborn will require during the initial weeks.

Here are some additional tips to help make the diapering process go smoothly:

  • Choose a diaper brand that fits your baby’s size and needs. Some babies may have sensitive skin and require hypoallergenic diapers.

  • Have a designated diaper pail to dispose of dirty diapers. This will help keep your home smelling fresh and clean.

  • Invest in a portable changing pad for diaper changes on-the-go. This can be useful for outings or visits to friends and family.

  • Keep a spare set of clothes nearby during diaper changes in case of any accidents.

  • Don’t forget to wash your hands before and after each diaper change to prevent the spread of germs.

By preparing ahead of time and having all the necessary supplies within reach, diaper changes can become a routine task that you’ll feel confident and comfortable doing.

Give yourself grace

It’s important to keep in mind that being a new mom can come with a lot of unexpected challenges. It’s completely normal to feel like you’re struggling at times, and it’s okay to reach out for help when you need it.

Consider joining a new mom’s support group, talking to your healthcare provider, or connecting with other moms in your community. Remember that self-care is also important during this time, so try to take breaks when you can and prioritise activities that help you relax and recharge.

Above all, know that you are not alone and that there is no right or wrong way to navigate motherhood. Trust your instincts and do what feels best for you and your baby.

Final words

In conclusion, the first six weeks after giving birth can be challenging for new moms, but there are steps you can take to make it a little bit easier.

Accepting help from others, getting enough rest, asking your healthcare provider questions, prioritizing your mental health, preparing for breastfeeding challenges, stocking up on baby essentials, and giving yourself grace are all important things to keep in mind.

Remember, you’ve got this!

We hope this article has provided some insight. If you wish to try out our confinement meals do speak with us today to find out more about our confinement food packages!

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Confinement Tips

Navigating Emotional Ups and Downs of Postpartum

Bringing a new life into the world can be one of life’s most happy and fulfilling moments. Yet, new parents should be aware that the postpartum period can bring a range of feelings that can seem overwhelming. The emotional ups and downs that occur during this period are normal, and it is critical to understand how to navigate them in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for both the new parent and the newborn. According to statistics states approximately 1 in 10 women will experience postpartum depression after giving birth. The studies also estimate that there were around 50% of mothers suffering from postpartum depression are not diagnosed by professional healthcare. In this article, we’ll look at the emotional changes that new parents may go through during the postpartum period and give ways for dealing with them.

Symptoms after childbirth

While postpartum emotional changes are common and normal, they can be overwhelming and challenging for some. Most new mums will experience “baby blues” after giving birth with usually includes anxiety, mood swings, crying spells and difficulties of sleep. Normally baby blues will appear after 2-3 days after giving birth and may last up to 2 weeks. The heavier symptoms of “baby blues” are known as postpartum depression and usually, this condition will exhibit mostly in new mums. While it is vital to emphasize that postpartum depression is not a character flaw or a weakness, it is important to accept it as a condition following childbirth.

  • Baby Blues
    The baby blues are a common emotional change experienced by new parents. Symptoms can include mood swings, tearfulness, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms typically begin within the first few days after giving birth and can last up to two weeks.
  • Postpartum Psychosis
    Is a complex and rare condition that affects different postpartum women in different ways such as, feeling confused and lost, having obsessive thoughts, hallucinating, being unable to sleep, having unsettling feelings, and being paranoid. Postpartum psychosis can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. It can impair the mother’s ability to bond with her baby, care for herself and her family, and function normally. It can also increase the risk of suicide or infanticide
  • Postpartum Depression in the other parent
    According to research, new fathers can also suffer from postpartum depression. They may experience sadness, fatigue, overwhelm, anxiety, or changes in their typical eating and sleeping patterns. These are the same symptoms that postpartum depression women experience.
    Fathers who are young, have a history of depression, have emotional conflict, or are financially struggling are the most vulnerable to postpartum depression. Postpartum depression in fathers, also known as paternal postpartum depression, can have the same harmful effect on partner relationships and child development as it does on mothers.

a parent holding and kissing a baby

Coping Strategies for Postpartum Emotions

There are coping strategies you can employ to help you through this transition and make your postpartum experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

  • Self-Care and Self-Compassion
    One of the most important things you can do is to practice self-care and self-compassion. This means taking time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes a day, to do something that makes you feel good. Whether it’s taking a warm bath, reading a book, or going for a walk, taking care of yourself is crucial for your mental and emotional well-being.
  • Seeking Support
    Another helpful coping strategy is seeking support. This can be from your partner, family members, or friends. Talking about your feelings and experiences with someone you trust can make a world of difference. You may also want to consider joining a support group for new moms in your community or online.
  • Maintaining Healthy Relationships
    Is also important during this time. Communicate with your partner and loved ones openly and honestly about how you’re feeling and what you need from them. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and try to limit contact with those who bring negativity into your life.
  • Seek Help from other family members
    There is no shame in seeking help or taking care of yourself during this time. You are a strong and capable mom, and with the right coping strategies in place, you can enjoy this special time in your life to the fullest.
  • Getting Professional Help
    If you find that your postpartum emotions are persistent and interfere with your daily life, it’s important to seek professional help. This can come in the form of therapy or counselling, and can help you work through any issues you may be experiencing.
  • Getting assistance with your maternity meal planning
    Proper nutrition is essential for both you and your baby, but finding the time and energy to prepare healthy meals can be challenging. Consider reaching out to a nutritionist or dietician who can help you plan and prepare nutritious meals for you and your little one.

a concerned mum hugging a newborn wearing white shirt

Myth and Misconceptions About Postpartum Emotional Challenge 

Postpartum emotional challenge, also known as postpartum depression (PPD), is a serious mental health condition that affects some parents after the birth of a baby. It can cause feelings of sadness, anxiety, guilt, hopelessness, and difficulty bonding with the baby. There are many myths and misconceptions about PPD that can prevent people from seeking help or getting proper treatment. Here are some of them:

  • Myth: PPD only affects pregnant individuals.
    Fact: PPD can affect anyone who has a baby, regardless of gender identity or biological role. About 1 in 9 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers experience PPD
  • Myth: PPD goes away on its own.
    Fact: PPD is not a normal part of parenthood and it does not just disappear without treatment. PPD can last for months or even years if left untreated.
  • Myth: PPD is a sign of bad parenting or weakness.
    Fact: PPD is not caused by anything that parents do or don’t do. It is not a reflection of their character or ability to care for their baby. PPD is a medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, education, income, culture, or personality.
  • Myth: People with PPD may harm their babies.
    Fact: Most people with PPD do not have thoughts or intentions of harming their baby. However, some may experience intrusive thoughts that are scary or disturbing but do not reflect their true feelings or desires. These thoughts are common and do not mean that they will act on them. If someone has thoughts of harming themselves or their baby, they should seek immediate help from a doctor or call 911.

In conclusion, navigating the emotional ups and downs of postpartum can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone in this experience. Practising self-care and self-compassion, seeking support, maintaining healthy relationships, getting professional help, and asking for assistance with maternity meal planning are all helpful coping strategies that can make this transition smoother and more enjoyable.

As a new mom, you may feel overwhelmed at times, but it’s important to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish, it’s necessary. You are a strong and capable mom, and with the right support and coping strategies, you can navigate the postpartum period with grace and ease.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for help when you need it, and don’t hesitate to prioritize your own needs alongside those of your new baby. With time, patience, and perseverance, you will find your footing and thrive as a new mom. Congratulations on this exciting new chapter in your life, and know that you’ve got this!

Final words

We hope this article has provided some insight on how to Navigating Emotional Ups and Downs of Postpartum. If you wish to try out our confinement meals do speak with us today to find out more about our confinement food packages!

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Confinement Tips

New Mom, New You: Navigating Postpartum Recovery with Self-Care

Being a new mother is both an exciting and daunting experience. The physical and emotional hardships of postpartum recovery accompany the joy of welcoming your infant into the world. Understanding postpartum preparation can be beneficial to you as giving birth will be super challenging for a new mum.

In this writing, we will discuss the significance of self-care during postpartum recovery and provide new mothers tips on how to care for themselves physically and mentally. We will discuss everything from enough relaxation and sleep to a good diet and self-care. Additionally we will also share the need of seeking assistance and support from family, friends, and medical experts.

We want to assist new mothers in taking care of themselves and making a smooth transition into parenting. So let’s discover how to navigate postpartum with self-care!

Rest and recover

Rest and recuperation are crucial postpartum healing components. Your body has undergone much throughout pregnancy and delivery, and it needs enough rest and restoration.

Building a healthy routine such as doing specific exercises such as pelvic tilt, kegel exercise, and happy baby yoga pose is recommended if your health care provider has given the green light. 

There will be when you need others to assist you throughout your postpartum period, so it is always a good choice to get assistance from your family members or a postpartum doula. In addition, it is crucial to arrange a time for rest and sleep throughout the day. For instance, napping while the infant sleeps or spending a few moments relaxing.

New moms should avoid lifting heavy things and participating in intense activity until approved by their doctor.

Healthy Diet 

Dietary balance is crucial for postpartum healing. Your body needs appropriate nutrition to mend and recover after labour and, if desired, to support breastfeeding. So having to focus on getting foods high in nutrients, like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and healthy fats is recommended for your recovery.

According to the dietary recommendations, food such as vitamins and minerals, like iron, calcium, and vitamin D, will help to supply you with the needed nutrients that will help your body recover to your pink of health.

Confinement meals are particularly beneficial for postpartum recovery usually includes:

  • Leafy greens and other vegetables, which are abundant in iron, folate, and other vital elements.
  • Chicken, fish, and beans are high in lean proteins, which help to heal damaged tissue and encourage breastfeeding.
  • Whole grains like quinoa and brown rice offer energy and aid with blood sugar regulation.
  • Antioxidants and good fats are abundant in berries, nuts, and seeds.

Before deciding on your postpartum meal plan, we advise you to know your food restrictions or allergies you may have and to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your diet. Alternatively, you may seek for maternity food consultation from us and we will do our best to delivery your meal accordingly.

Seek Help & Care for Mental Health

A woman may require several kinds of assistance during postpartum recovery, based on her particular requirements and circumstances. Some common types of help that may be needed include:

  • Physical aid may involve support with bathing, dressing, and getting about. Such as diapering, washing, and feeding infants.
  • Emotional support: After giving birth, many women feel a wide range of emotions, such as sadness, worry, and stress.
  • Regular check-ups with a healthcare practitioner to guarantee appropriate healing and to address any medical issues are examples of medical assistance.
  • Help with domestic duties such as cooking, cleaning, and washing may be provided.
  • Breastfeeding session: You may need to learn how to do breastfeed properly to avoid discomfort and complications.
  • Others support: Family members or husband play the role to ease up your challenge and to support you whenever needed. 

Rest assured, it is very normal for postpartum mum to ask for help whether it is from your friend or family members whenever you needed it. Additionally, don’t be shy to reach out to any postpartum support group whether it is from social media or your closest circle.

Dealing with postpartum might be tough for many new mothers but it is important to remember that experiencing such difficulties and challenges is nothing to be ashamed of.  It is very common for the majority of women will experience a roller coaster of emotions while in the postpartum period. To ease up, we suggest asking out for support from others be it in a form of communication or physical help. Be proud of yourself as a new mom, a new you. 

Conclusion

We hope this article has provided some insight on how to navigate yourself during your postpartum journey. If you wish to try out our confinement meals do speak with us today to find out more about our confinement food packages!

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Confinement Food

What To Eat & What To Avoid During Your Third Trimester

Eating well throughout your pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby. Meeting the recommended nutritional requirements is especially crucial during the third trimester for sufficient energy while providing all necessary nutrients to your growing child. However, knowing what to eat or avoid when you’re pregnant is also important. 

NouRiche is a leading provider of confinement meal deliveries in Singapore, and here’s the lowdown on the foods to eat and avoid during the final leg of your pregnancy. 

What to eat?

#1 Foods rich in iron

Insufficient consumption of iron may lead to anaemia. This is because during pregnancy, blood volume expands to accommodate the changes in one’s body. Additionally, your unborn baby will need to store adequate iron for the first six months of life before he or she starts taking in solid foods. 

Choose iron-rich foods such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs, dried beans and fortified grains. The form of iron in meat products, called heme iron, is more easily absorbed than the iron in vegetables. For those who are anaemic, increasing meat consumption will be the easiest way to increase the iron your body receives.

#2 Foods rich in protein

Foods rich in protein-confinement food.in Singapore

Protein is crucial for your baby’s development throughout pregnancy and helps your baby’s body produce blood. Good sources of protein are lean meat, poultry, seafood and eggs, while vegetarian options include beans and peas, nuts, seeds, and soy products. 

#3 Foods rich in DHA

DHA-rich foods can help with growth of a baby’s brain. Pregnant women require about 200 milligrams of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) daily. To meet these requirements, consider including milk, eggs, and fruits in your confinement food.

Learn more: Confinement Food Singapore | How It Nourishes Your Body

#4 Folic acid 

Folate is a B vitamin that prevents problems with the developing brain and spinal cord. The synthetic form of folate found in supplements and fortified foods is known as folic acid, and has been shown to decrease the risk of premature birth on top of having a low birth weight baby. Get your sources of naturally occurring folate from dark green, leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and dried beans, peas and lentils.

#5 Calcium

Calcium-confinement food.in Singapore

Both mother and baby require calcium for strong bones and teeth. Additionally, calcium supports healthy functioning of the circulatory, muscular and nervous systems. Dairy products are great sources of calcium, while non dairy options include broccoli and kale. 

#6 Foods that are high in Vitamin C, B6 and B12

Vitamins C, B6 and B12 play a vital role in the development of a baby through the musculature and placental growth. These nutrients can be found in foods such as oranges, bananas, sweet lime, carrots, chickpeas, and almonds.

#7 Magnesium

Magnesium plays an important role in nerve and muscle function, on top of maintaining normal blood pressure. In addition, it helps your baby develop strong teeth and bones. Getting adequate magnesium during pregnancy has also shown to prevent preterm labour and other pregnancy complications. Go for foods like green leafy vegetables, bananas, legumes, avocados, dark chocolate, or raw unsalted nuts.

What to avoid?

#1 Avoid raw meats and vegetables

Avoid raw meats and vegetables-confinement food.in Singapore

Avoid raw meats and vegetables of any kind as such foods contain a variety of food-borne bacteria and viruses. Changes in your metabolism and circulation during pregnancy may increase the risk of bacterial food poisoning, and could result in more severe issues than if you were not pregnant.

#2 Spicy foods

Spicy foods can lead to indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy, and therefore should be avoided during the last trimester.

#3 Foods high in salt

High salt intake can lead to several concerns such as water retention or swelling of the legs for pregnant women. The issue of high blood pressure may also come up, causing potential health issues for the baby.

After birth

Preparing your own confinement meals during this period can be inconvenient and time-consuming. Hence, it’s best to engage a reliable confinement food caterer for nutritious pregnancy meal deliveries to boost your health and vitality. Apart from being guided by a professional dietitian to assist with your recovery, you can rest assured that your confinement food is not just nutritious, but delicious too. 

We hope this article has been beneficial in ensuring you and your baby are getting all the nutrition you need as you head into the final stages of your pregnancy.

Confinement meal delivery services have been gaining popularity among new mothers for its convenience. Searching for confinement meal deliveries? NouRiche takes pride in providing nutritious and tasty meals that all mothers are sure to enjoy. Reach out to our team today to find out more!