The feeds are long, the hands are full, and hunger arrives at the worst possible moment. A small, well-chosen snack stash is one of the simplest ways to look after yourself in the early weeks.

The ones that earn their place

• Oatcakes or wholegrain crackers with nut butter or cheese.
• A handful of nuts and a few squares of dark chocolate.
• Yoghurt pouches, or a yoghurt with a spoon left ready.
• Flapjacks or energy balls made with oats and seeds.
• Fruit that needs no peeling: grapes, berries, a banana.
• Hummus with oatcakes or chopped veg, prepped ahead.

The best snack is the one already within arm's reach when the feed starts.

Set yourself up

Once a day, restock the spots where you spend the long hours: a tin by the feeding chair, a few bits in your changing bag, something on the bedside table. Add a water bottle to each. Future you, twenty minutes into a feed with a sleeping baby pinning your arm, will be very grateful.