Losing weight may be more difficult for breastfeeding mothers because they have to consume more calories to make the milk full of healthy nutrients, says the article "Getting Back into Shape after Baby" on Pregnancy-Info.net. This need doubles if you are breastfeeding two babies. Consequently, you may consume more calories; however you also burn and pass on more calories. Losing weight should not be your main concern while breastfeeding; however you may wish to focus on bringing your body back in shape. With caution and care, there are a number of steps you can take to gradually become more fit while breastfeeding twins.
Step 1
Alternate breasts at each feed to exercise your arms, back and abdominal muscles as you switch the babies. "Breastfeeding Twins or Multiples," on BabyCenter.com recommends this as one of the methods to produce equal amounts of milk, but it can also help you exercise and burn calories. This exercise will gradually become more and more difficult as your babies grow and may help you burn off some of the extra calories that you consume when trying to acquire enough energy to nurture both children.
Step 2
Do squats or lunges with both babies in your arms. If this is too difficult, begin with one baby and have your partner, family member or friend hold the other baby during this exercise. Your upper body will naturally build up from carrying the two babies, but your lower body may require a little bit more effort on your part.
Step 3
Feed your babies and play with them knowing that you are burning twice as many calories as the mother of one baby. Think that you have an advantage and motivate yourself with this thought. Despite the difficulties and the additional calories consumed when breastfeeding twins, you burn more calories while feeding and nursing the two babies.
Step 4
Keep your back straight when exercising with your babies in your arms. This prevents you from putting unnecessary stress on your back, says the article "Postpartum Exercises" on Babies.SutterHealth.org. Hold the two babies in a way that helps you keep your back straight, balance the weight and build up muscles.
Step 5
Avoid strict diets and get all the nutrients that you require. Strict diets are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, says the Department of Health of the Government of Western Australia. Proper nutrition is essential not only for your children, but also to give you the necessary energy to take care of them and exercise.
