Dieting after your delivery can help you get back into your skinny jeans. However, it is important to be patient and choose a balanced diet to get all the nutrients your body needs. Remember, it took you nine months to gain your pregnancy weight and it may take you some time to lose it.
Nutrient-Dense
Choosing a nutrient-dense diet helps you get all the vitamins and minerals you need. Include foods like lean meat, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products in your diet. Whole grains are filled with fiber and help keep you full longer and prevent overeating. Lean meats provide your body with iron, which is necessary after you give birth to prevent anemia. Fruits and vegetables are a healthy way to snack that fills your body with vitamins A, C and E.
Eat Often
After you give birth, it is important to eat often to provide a steady flow of nutrition to the body because it is common to feel fatigued after delivery. Eating often also helps you reach your weight loss goals because it prevents you from overeating at meals. Pack on-the-go snacks that will keep your body fueled with energy during your entire day. Snacking on nuts, fruits, cheeses and even yogurt are healthy choices.
Monitor Calories
Watching your caloric intake can help you reach a steady weight loss. Understand that you need calories for energy and to keep up with your baby. BabyCenter explains that women need a minimum of 1,200 calories a day; if you are breast-feeding, you need 1,800 calories. Listen to your body. Some days you will be hungrier than others and, after giving birth, it is important to keep your body fueled. However, limit the amount of sugary and processed foods you consume to help you stay within a healthy calorie range.
Weight Loss
Setting realistic weight loss goals is important after you have your baby because you want to lose weight slowly to keep it off. MayoClinic.com explains that most women will lose up to 10 lbs. during delivery and a few more pounds the next few days due to losing retained fluids. However, your weight loss is likely to slow down after that. A realistic goal is a healthy weight loss of 1 lb. per week until you reach your pre-pregnancy weight.
