Losing weight after having a child is a difficult process. A baby has a way of making a woman's life more chaotic, and it is not always easy to find time to diet or exercise. Many women also have unrealistic expectations, and expect the weight to magically disappear on its own in weeks as it seems to for celebrities and supermodels. Although it doesn't happen quite that easily for most women, it is possible to lose your baby weight by keeping in mind a few simple steps.
Step 1
Consider if you will be breastfeeding while trying to lose the weight. Although the act of breastfeeding itself can burn calories and help you to lose weight, special considerations need to be made in order to ensure that both you and your baby meet your nutritional needs. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you decide to nurse while trying to lose weight.
Step 2
Wait until the postpartum period is over. The postpartum period is generally considered six weeks if you had a vaginal delivery and eight weeks if you delivered via Cesarean section. Talk to your doctor to get permission before actively trying to lose weight.
Step 3
Aim for a slow weight loss. Your body has been through many major changes with the pregnancy and birth of your child, and will most likely respond better if you cut back gradually than by having a sudden drop in calories or a grueling exercise program.
Step 4
Cut your calories. The amount of calories you need will vary depending upon your current weight and activity level, but the Baby Center medical advisory board suggests women need a minimum of 1200 calories a day, and most women need about 1800 to 2200 calories a day to keep energy levels high and to prevent mood swings.
Step 5
Eat healthy food. Try to eat food that is low in calories but filling, and avoid sugary foods and empty calories. Having a baby in the house can make it tempting to reach for those pre-packaged snacks or rely on fast food instead of cooking, but resisting the temptation to do so will do wonders for your waistline. Plan ahead of time to have healthy food easily accessible at all times.
Step 6
Exercise. Although exercising on a regular basis may be more difficult when you have a child, it is not impossible. If you don't like leaving your baby to go work out, consider seeing if there are any mommy-baby exercise classes in your area or create your own at-home workout that incorporates playing with your baby. If the weather is nice, going for long walks or jogs with your baby is also another great option.
Step 7
Get support. Enlisting the help of family members or friends might help you in your weight loss journey, but also consider joining a weight loss support group or program. This not only will give you the mental and emotional support and encouragement you, but also will keep you accountable to your weight loss goals.
Step 8
Be patient and realistic. Sometimes you may not see weight loss results as quickly as you would like, so remember to cut yourself some slack and be patient. Celebrities may seem like they can lose baby fat within weeks, but most women go by the idea that it took nine months to gain the weight and could therefore take nine months (or more) to lose it.
Tips and Warnings
- It may be better to allow yourself small food indulgences throughout the week. This will allow you to still have small portions of the foods you crave, which will minimize the chances of you feeling deprived and giving up on your weight loss plan to soon. Moderation is key.
- You should talk to your doctor before starting any kind of diet or exercise program.
Member Comments