Slimfast products include weight loss shakes and meal bars with added vitamins and nutrients. They are designed to help you lose weight at a rate of 1 to 2 lbs. a week with a balanced diet and exercise. If you are pregnant or trying to lose pregnancy weight, you may need to consider the safety of trying to lose weight in your situation.
Pregnancy and Weight Loss
The American Pregnancy Association states that if you are a healthy weight before pregnancy, you should gain about 25 to 37 lbs. during your pregnancy. This amount varies if you are underweight or overweight, but gaining weight is still important because your unborn baby needs the extra calories. Intentionally losing weight during pregnancy can prevent your baby from getting the nourishment she needs.
Extra Nutrients
According to Babycenter, diet shakes such as Slimfast can be used as a quick meal or snack during pregnancy as long as you avoid using them every day. It is important to eat a variety from all food groups and make sure your diet includes meat and beans, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Slimfast has vitamins and minerals that make it acceptable for a snack when you're short on time, but choose other healthy foods when possible.
After Pregnancy
You may be anxious to get back to your pre-pregnancy weight after your pregnancy is over, and you can use Slimfast shakes and bars to safely lose about 1 to 2 lbs. a week until you reach your goal. However, if you are breast-feeding, ask your doctor before using Slimfast or any other method to lose weight. You need a certain amount of calories and nutrients in your diet in order to provide breast milk for your baby, and your doctor can help you determine the safest way to lose weight.
Considerations
In order to limit excessive weight gain during your pregnancy and help encourage weight loss after delivery, focus on eating a healthy diet with smaller portions of whole grains, protein, fruits, vegetables and low fat dairy products. You can also talk to your doctor about safely adding moderate physical activity to your daily routine.
Recommendations
Be sure to ask your doctor before using Slimfast or any other weight loss method, whether you are pregnant or not. Not every weight loss plan works for every person, and your doctor can help you determine the best way to reach your goal weight.
