Ways To Lose Pregnancy Weight

If you're hoping to drop the excess weight you gained throughout your pregnancy, MayoClinic.com notes that you'll shed at least 10 pounds when you have the baby. To lose more than that amount -- which is comprised of the baby's weight, placenta and amniotic fluid -- you'll need to adopt lifestyle and motivational habits to lose the stored fat and get back to your pre-pregnancy weight.

Eating Habits

Although it's tempting to grab fast food on the run because of your busy schedule with the new baby, it's advisable to maintain healthy eating habits to shed pregnancy pounds. The Clemson University Cooperative Extension website suggests cutting calories by opting for fresh fruits and vegetables and low-fat and unsweetened foods instead of filling your diet with soft drinks, fried foods and high-fat meat and dairy products. The website recommends consulting your physician to develop a healthy diet plan with sufficient nutrients and calories, particularly if you're breastfeeding.

Breastfeed

If you're breastfeeding your baby, you may already be taking measures to shed the pregnancy pounds. KidsHealth notes that breastfeeding not only burns calories but also works to shrink the uterus to help you regain your pre-pregnancy shape. "Fit Pregnancy" magazine points out that because breastfeeding can burn up to 800 calories each day, it's important to reduce your food and beverage consumption once you stop breastfeeding, since the added calories may cause you to regain the weight you've worked so hard to lose.

Sleep

If you get enough sleep after your baby is born, you'll be doing more for yourself than just getting the proper rest. A 2007 study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology states that women who get less than six hours of sleep nightly are three times more likely to retain the excess baby weight. Cox Health points out that insufficient sleep can lead to changes in the hormones that regulate appetite, which can affect weight loss.

Start a Fitness Regimen

An exercise program can help you burn calories and lose pregnancy weight. MayoClinic.com recommends starting with a light workout that includes walking, swimming or riding a stationary bicycle and toning abdominal muscles with exercises that focus on the mid-section. Although women who had a healthy pregnancy and gave birth vaginally without complications can begin an exercise routine as soon as they feel physically ready, MayoClinic.com suggests talking to a doctor about developing a personalized fitness regimen if you had a cesarean section or medical complications throughout the pregnancy.

Join Other New Mothers

Motivate yourself to stay fit and lose the pregnancy weight by joining a support group with other new mothers. Fit Pregnancy notes that you can exercise together and inspire one another to reach weight loss goals. If you don't know any women who have recently given birth, consider asking your friends, hospital or obstetrician for referrals for new mothers' groups.