For this week’s installment of nourishing recipes from my wonderful postpartum doula, , she’s sharing a the healthy dessert that I lived on when I was craving sweets. Delish! Written with love from my doula, Stephanie Matthias, herself:

I like this recipe because it’s a low glycemic, sweet treat for new moms – with some health benefits as well!

Collagen is great for strengthening your hair and nails, which can take a beating postpartum because of all the hormonal and mineral fluctuations in your body. Collagen also reduces inflammation, reduces cellulite and stretch marks and helps to protect your cardiovascular system.

The avocado and coconut oil provide a lot of healthy fat which is super important for overall brain health, helps your body absorb all of the fat soluble vitamins in your daily multi, and keeps your hormones in check.

This pudding is also pretty high calorie, but don’t be afraid of that – you need the extra calories! For moms who choose to breastfeed, you’re burning an extra 600-800 calories per day just by feeding your baby. Making sure you’re getting enough calories and enough nutrient-dense food is incredibly important during this time because not only do you need to replenish what you’re giving to your baby, but your milk supply can suffer if you aren’t getting the nourishment you need. The almond butter also provides healthy fats as well as fiber, vitamin E, magnesium and calcium (fun fact: when you take magnesium and calcium together, your body absorbs the calcium much more efficiently than it does when calcium is taken alone).

By adding raw, unfiltered, local honey, you’re protecting yourself against seasonal allergies as well as boosting your immune system.

Last, but not least, is the cacao powder.. I LOVE cacao. Cacao has 40 times the antioxidants of blueberries, it’s the highest plant-based source of iron, it’s full of magnesiuim and calcium (there’s the genius of nature again, pairing the two together). Plus, it’s a natural mood enhancer, anti-depressant and hormone stabilizer, which is all so useful when moms hormones are all over the place during those first several weeks after birth.

Recipe: Avocado Chocolate Pudding

Ingredients:

2 small ripe avocados or 1 large ripe avocado
2 Tbsp + 1 tsp maple syrup
1/4 cup59 ml coconut milk
2 Tbsp coconut oil
1 Tbsp raw, unfiltered local honey
1 1/4 cup296 ml cacao powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
generous pinch sea salt
1/4 cup59 ml almond butter
1 tbsp unflavored collagen

Preparation:

1. Combine all ingredients in a Vitamix or other powerful blender or food processor and blend until it’s all well combined. I always taste it, in case it needs a touch more of something. Once ready, transfer to little jars for individual servings. Store in the fridge. Best enjoyed within a few days of making.

2. Top with with fresh berries, chopped walnuts and/or cocoa nibs, to name a few. You could also add your favorite adaptogens or wellness supplements to the ingredients before or after blending.

Tip for postpartum moms: You really want to try your best to avoid consuming anything cold for at least the first month post-birth. I always advise to take a jar of this out of the fridge and set it out on the counter for 20-30 minutes before consuming. It just takes the edge off so you’re not eating something that has a sharp cold to it. Same goes for smoothies or juices.