Pregnancy and childbirth change a new mom's body in significant ways. The extra weight combined with postpartum hormones may leave a new mom with negative feelings about her body, according to La Leche League International. A sensible approach to dieting allows a new mom to lose the baby weight without risking her health.
Pace Yourself
A newborn requires a lot of attention and care, leaving you low on energy. Night time wakings add to the exhaustion. Give yourself at least six weeks to adjust to being a mom. This resting period also allows your body to recover from childbirth, according to La Leche League International. Set realistic goals for your weight loss efforts once you begin actively dieting. One to two pounds a week is a healthy goal. The Mayo Clinic recommends adding light aerobic activity at a slow pace, gradually increasing the intensity.
Eat Regularly
The care required by your new baby consumes a great deal of time. Your new responsibilities may cause you to skip meals, either intentionally or because you become too busy. Making time to eat healthy meals and snacks provides your body with the energy it needs to make it through the day---and to exercise, which aids in your weight loss. The Mayo Clinic recommends a diet of whole grains, fruit, vegetables and lean protein such as chicken, fish and beans. Eating several smaller meals instead of three large meals helps you stay full so you don't overeat.
Breastfeed
Breastfeeding burns around 500 to 600 calories per day, according to La Leche League International. Breastfeeding may help in your weight loss efforts, especially if you breastfeed exclusively for several months. Breastfeeding alone won't likely allow you to reach your postpartum weight loss goals. Combine breastfeeding with a healthy diet and exercise for maximum weight loss.
Find Support From Other Moms
Other new moms serve as a potential support system in your dieting efforts. If you don't know any other new moms, join a support group or playgroup in your area. Exercising together, sharing healthy recipes and providing emotional support helps all the moms in the group get closer to their weight loss goals.
Visualize Success
La Leche League International recommends visualizing yourself in a healthy state to serve as a motivator in your dieting efforts. Keep this image in mind to help you make healthy diet choices and avoid temptations. Write down specific steps you need to take in order to achieve your healthy body.
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