So I've had to change my diet drastically because I have postpartum depression anxiety. I can't believe I just typed that out loud. My second child was born a year ago and I'm still struggling with this. It has taken me a very long time to face this fact but now that I have, I can finally get a grip on it and stop feeling like I'm going crazy. I decided to not go the drug route because I know that if I take something that will immediately make me feel better I won't get to the bigger issue of taking care of myself. I have neglected myself for quite some time now. I know it's hard to focus on yourself when you have tiny nuggets running around but I have found out the hard way that it is very necessary (duh). I mean I could have, at the very least, taken the time to EAT SOMETHING. But don't get me wrong, I know I would still have hormonal issues even if I was eating better but I know I haven't been helping things. So for about a month now I have been making sure to eat what's going to help my body and not hurt it anymore....and to just eat. period. And seriously, after 3 days of eating healthy I felt like a different person. Seriously. I really had no idea how much food affected me.
But...I can't give up cookies so here's my recipe for a healthy cookie that does the trick.
Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies Printable Version
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Splenda (or 6 packets)
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 2 teaspoons water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 white flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup old fashion rolled oats
- 1/2 cup (or more) chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix oil, honey, Splenda until creamy. Combine with egg, vanilla, and salt, blend. Mix flour, baking soda, and old fashion rolled oats. Stir in chocolate chips. Spoon onto greased cookie sheets. Bake for about 7 minutes and then check so see if they're starting to brown on top. Take them out as soon as they start browning and let them sit for about 10 minutes to finish cooking.
Makes about 2 dozen.
Mmm, the cookies look delicious, and thank you for being brave enough to share your experience with depression! I often read people's blogs and think how perfect everything looks . . . it seems like everyone has such perfect, happy little families, and it's so refreshing to see some real live honesty, and people who are strong enough to share their struggles in a public place. PPD is a beast--I struggled with it, too--and just know that I'm thinking of you and wish you all the best :-)
ReplyDeleteRachel @ Maybe Matilda
@Rachel
ReplyDeleteThank you Rachel!!
I love that you post a happy recipe to lighten up the mood. just remember that in taking care of yourself you will be able to be a better mom. Kind of like how the flight attendants tell you to put your oxygen mask on before helping others.
ReplyDeleteWell done, Jess, for speaking up and for taking care of yourself. The best way to deal with a situation like this is "out loud," I am sure. Love to you.
ReplyDeleteBeing a mom is hard work no matter what. Props to you for hanging in there through this last year with everything you've been feeling. Love you and praying for you, dear friend!
ReplyDeleteHelloo nice blog
ReplyDelete