Although diet pills and fad diets may seem ideal for fast weight loss, they generally involve unhealthy habits and seldom offer lasting results. To lose weight quickly after having a baby, make healthful changes to your diet, start an exercise routine and try to get enough sleep. Make healthful modifications to your lifestyle to help make certain that once you've lost the weight, you'll keep it off.
Step 1
Choose breastfeeding over formula to feed your baby, if possible. Breastfeeding burns up to 600 calories a day and provides your newborn with important nutrients and vitamins. Prolactin, produced when you breastfeed, causes your uterus to return to its original size. Because you burn a lot of calories when nursing, some women find that losing weight is easier while breastfeeding, according to La Leche League International. Women who are nursing should not actively try to lose weight during the first 2 months after delivery; your body needs time to establish a substantial milk supply.
Step 2
Make healthful modifications to your diet. Eat foods full of fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables and fresh fruit. Choose lean proteins, legumes and low-fat dairy products for essential nutrients and vitamins. When you need something quick, opt for a piece of fruit, nuts or low-fat yogurt. Keep unhealthful foods out of your house to avoid temptation.
Step 3
Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day, if finding time to sit down for a meal is difficult. Avoid skipping meals as a weight loss plan. Skipping meals can cause overeating at other meals, warns BabyCenter.com. Skipping a meal may also make you sluggish and irritable. Missing a meal affects your metabolism and won't help you lose weight.
Step 4
Start a workout regimen that consists of aerobic exercise, weight training and stretching. Start slow and work up to 30 to 60 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Attend a group fitness class, take a mom-and-baby yoga class, ride your bike or go on walks with your baby. Weight loss isn't the only benefit of physical activity. According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise decreases stress levels, improves your mood and helps you get a better night's sleep. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded or extremely fatigued while working out, stop immediately and talk to your doctor.
Step 5
Take a nap. Many new moms don't get enough sleep during the night due to feedings and other newborn needs. Lack of sleep causes slowed metabolism and increased hunger, reports Parents magazine. Missing out on sleep makes exercise and a healthy diet challenging. Take advantage of your baby's naps and take a nap to catch up on sleep. Feeling rested makes it easier to make healthful food choices, engage in physical activity and care for your newborn.
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