You deserve some rest: Fighting fatigue

As a new mom, you probably think about sleep all the time. There's a reason people ask how well your baby is sleeping at night. They know babies wake up often, which makes it hard for you to get the rest you need.

Take heart – many babies start sleeping through the night around six months of age. If your baby is not one of them, try these ideas for boosting your energy.

Be smart about coffee

Caffeine can make you feel more awake, so having a cup or two a day of coffee or tea can help boost your body and sharpen your mind. Try not to have much caffeine after 2 p.m. because it may keep you awake at night.

If you’re breastfeeding, it’s best not to have more than two to three cups of coffee a day (that's 200mg or less of caffeine). Small amounts of caffeine pass to the baby through breast milk. Too much caffeine may make your baby cranky or not want to sleep.

Get plenty of water

Being tired can be a sign that you need to drink more water. Try to drink a glass of water each time you feed your baby. Also, a lot of the fluids you need can come from food, not just water or other drinks. Some fruits and vegetables are up to 90% water. Cucumbers, zucchini, squash, strawberries, citrus fruit and melons are good sources of water.

Get some exercise

Yes, you're tired. But exercise boosts energy levels by making you feel happier. Try taking your baby for a walk every day so both of you can get some daylight and fresh air. Bundle up if it’s cold. Choose light clothing and avoid midday heat if it's hot.

Eat for energy

Try eating several small meals throughout the day with lots of whole grains, protein, fruits and vegetables in them. Eating this way helps keep your brain fueled up and can help you feel more alert.

Set the stage to sleep well

Turn off screens and your phone at least 30 minutes before bed. Also, avoid large meals, alcohol and bright lights before bedtime. Try to make your bedroom dark and quiet to help you sleep.