Welcoming a new life is beautiful, but it can also feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster. One minute you are in awe of your tiny human; the next you are crying over spilt milk, literally. Many new mothers go through postpartum blues: feeling sad, snappy, anxious, or just plain emotionally scrambled, especially in those first few weeks. It is all pretty normal due to hormonal shake-up, zero sleep, and the fact that you are now responsible for a tiny, round-the-clock boss. While support, rest, and professional help are essential, there is one underrated mood manager: food.

No, not just comfort food. We are talking about nutrient-packed, mood-boosting superheroes on a plate.

Here are five foods that could help regulate those postpartum blues, backed by science.

1. Salmon

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, salmon supports brain function and helps stabilise mood swings. Postpartum blues are often linked to a drop in DHA (which gets redirected to baby during pregnancy), so restoring that balance can really help. DHA also supports a baby's brain development. Think of salmon as edible self-care.

2. Eggs

They are packed with choline (great for brain health and memory), vitamin D (a known mood-lifter), and high-quality protein to keep your blood sugar stable. That is important because nothing spirals a new mother faster than a sugar crash while holding a crying infant. Scramble them, boil them, poach them, have them anyway.

3. Spinach

Spinach is rich in iron, magnesium, and folate, all of which support energy levels and mood regulation. Feeling weepy or easily overwhelmed? Your body might just be crying out for a spinach smoothie. Or a spinach-cheese omelette. Or spinach anything, really.

4. Greek Yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is rich in probiotics and protein; it supports gut health while keeping your energy levels up. Add a handful of berries for an antioxidant kick, and you have got a breakfast that doubles as emotional armour.

5. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more) is rich in magnesium and flavonoids, which can reduce stress hormones and improve blood flow to the brain. Basically, it is medicine that tastes like dessert. A few squares a day can help calm the nerves, satisfy sweet cravings, and make you feel a little more like yourself again.