The goal of many new moms is to have the same or even better figure than before you got pregnant. It's ambitious, but very realistic, to lose the weight you gained while you were pregnant plus more. If you want to become slimmer than before you became pregnant, make lifestyle changes that will work to drop those pounds while you enjoy mothering your infant.
Goal Setting
In order to lose more weight than you gained after your child's birth, you need to begin by setting specific goals. Determine how many pounds you wish to lose and write this number down. This is your overall objective. MayoClinic.com suggests starting with a small goal so you do not become frustrated. To do this, divide this number into 5 lb. increments for manageability. Set your mind toward losing the first 5 lbs. Write down how you will accomplish this goal through your eating and exercise plans.
Calorie Counting
Reduce the number of calories you were accustomed to eating during your pregnancy in order to decrease your weight. Write down your current height, weight and activity level. Provide your physician with this information so that he can give you a recommendation of a daily caloric goal. Reach this goal by keeping track of everything you eat during a 24 hour period.
Food Choices
Your choices of foods will often determine how successful your diet will be. Consume low calorie satisfying foods such as dense whole wheat breads, protein rich beans, nourishing skim milk and fresh produce. MayoClinic.com stresses the importance of fiber in your diet and reports that it, along with drinking lots of water, helps to move food quickly through your body and increases the overall functioning of your digestive system. Increase your fiber intake by eating whole grain cereals, berries and split peas and lentils. Make your meals easy to prepare as you are likely to be extremely busy with your newborn and will need to make things as simple as possible.
Working Out
Losing more weight than you gained during pregnancy requires you to become more active. This can be a difficult challenge for a new mother but is necessary for both losing pounds and keeping you strong, mentally alert and in a good mood. Ask your family and friends to help look after your child so you can exercise for at least 20 minutes four times a week. Start slowly with some aerobic exercise such as dancing, biking or swimming. Build muscle instead of losing it with some resistance exercises such as light weight lifting and working out with resistance bands. Consult your physician as to when and how much exercise you can perform, especially if you have had a Cesarean section.
Committment
Stay committed to losing weight during this critical period following birth if you want to achieve your overall goal. Maintain your motivation to keep going by celebrating results and sharing them with your family and friends. Keep a record of each 5 lbs. lost. Weight Watchers suggests planning something special after obtaining a goal such as a facial or night out with your husband to mark the completion of your mini-goal. Other ways to stay committed include making your diet and exercise plan easier to stick to by getting enough rest and sleep. Share the overnight feedings with your spouse and don't feel guilty about hiring child care help if you can afford it. Nap when your child does and don't obsess over keeping the house immaculate.
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