Tips To Lose Baby Weight In The First Six Weeks

Many women are anxious to resume their physical activity and lose their "baby fat" after pregnancy. According to the American Conference of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, most health care providers will recommend waiting about six weeks after your delivery to resume a structured exercise program. Your physician may however recommend some light activity. The following tips will help you get a jump start on your postpartum weight loss.

Consult Your Physician

Before beginning any type of postpartum physical activity, even light walking, be sure to consult with your physician. While many health care providers will encourage light activity to promote healing after delivery, doctors may have different recommendations for you individually, especially if you had any pregnancy or delivery complications. Good communication with your physician is key to a safe and effective postpartum exercise plan.

Go for a Walk

Walking is an excellent choice of activity for you as a new mom. You can easily adjust the intensity by changing your pace and it allows you to bond with your newborn if you have a stroller or baby carrier. Choose short routes for the first few postpartum weeks and walk at a comfortable pace. If you are using a stroller, choose one that fits your body height and arm length, or has adjustable handlebars, so you can maintain good posture. Try to engage your core muscles, those of the stomach and lower back, as you walk and avoid rounding your shoulders and back forward. When using a baby carrier, make sure it is adjusted properly and your baby is snug against your body. A proper fit is important to avoid low back strain or discomfort, and you want your baby to feel safe and secure. If you feel very winded, or are unable to talk comfortably, ease up on the intensity.

Breastfeed Your Baby

While research does not appear conclusive on the effects of breastfeeding and weight loss, some studies, such as one published in a 2008 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," have reported that mothers who breastfeed are more successful at losing weight gained during pregnancy.

Watch Your Diet

With so many other factors to think about in the first six postpartum weeks, such as not getting enough sleep and taking care of a newborn baby, many mothers forget to focus on their nutrition. Even if you are not breastfeeding, which may actually require eating more calories than during your pregnancy, do not start cutting back calories right away. Instead, focus on eating a healthier and more balanced diet. Then you can slowly begin reducing some calories so that you are not consuming as many calories as you were with your pregnancy diet. The United States Department of Agriculture's MyPyramid.gov has a free, interactive online tool for pregnant and breastfeeding moms to help you with your daily food plans.