New moms usually are eager to reclaim their bodies after giving birth, since a woman typically gains between 25 and 35 pounds during her pregnancy, depending on her initial weight. Taking the weight off is not quite as easy as putting it on. Breastfeeding will help to take weight off because it burns extra calories every day.
Weight Loss
The weight-loss equation stays the same: Burn more calories than you are consuming. To lose a pound, burn 3,500 calories. A healthy weight loss for mothers who are nursing is one to two pounds per week.
Weight Loss While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a gift for babies and for moms. Most women will lose weight while breastfeeding because producing milk requires energy, which means burning calories. The La Leche League International explains that breastfeeding burns an extra 200 to 500 calories a day, and that a mother bottle-feeding would have to bike uphill for an hour to reach this caloric burn.
Breastfeeding Diet
Many women are afraid they think they will need to make great changes to their diet to breastfeed, but there is no need to drastically increase your calories. The website Breastfeeding Basics explains that no diet change is needed, and recommends eating between 1,500 and 1,800 calories a day. If you ate healthy before, continue the same eating patterns and you will still lose weight.
Exercise
Exercise will help to promote weight loss while breastfeeding and is safe for breastfeeding moms. A breastfeeding myth is that exercising will decrease a mother's milk supply, but in truth it might help a woman produce more milk. Wearing a comfortable and fitted sports bra is important during exercise for extra support. Daily aerobic exercise as well as strength training will help to shape your body while melting fat.
Balance
Balance is very important to new moms. There is no need to feel overwhelmed about trying to lose weight. Instead, focus on staying healthy and enjoying your new baby. The weight will fall off and breastfeeding will speed up the process. Monitor you portion control when eating, remembering that you are no longer eating for two. Opt for healthy options when making food choices. Find time for yourself to exercise: Not only will it help you fit back into your pants, but it also will help you feel refreshed.
