After having a child, the mere absence of the baby, placenta and amniotic fluid are enough to help you to lose more than 10 lbs. However, some extra weight will remain while your body returns to normal, especially if you gained weight in areas other than your stomach during pregnancy. Although your body is recovering and your priorities include a new baby, it is possible to lose the rest of your baby weight with some simple lifestyle changes and determination.
Step 1
Consume fewer calories each day by eating smaller portions. If you are breastfeeding a new baby, you will need to ask your doctor how many calories you need each day to produce enough milk. Your needs may vary if you are breastfeeding more than one child. No matter your calorie intake requirements, avoid unnecessary eating or snacking.
Step 2
Make healthy substitutions in your diet. Use whole wheat varieties of rice, pasta and bread instead of white versions. Use low-calorie sugar substitutes, consume lean cuts of meat and drink fat-free milk instead of whole milk. Avoid eating in restaurants, where the meals are often loaded with sodium and fat, and you are unable to monitor what ingredients are used in your food.
Step 3
Drink eight or more glasses of water each day. This will make you feel full and less inclined to have unhealthy snacks or drinks. It will also keep your body hydrated, giving you more energy.
Step 4
Exercise three or four days a week, allowing your body time to rest between workout days. Although it may be difficult to find time to exercise with a new baby, it is necessary to burn some calories to lose weight. Do strength exercises, such as crunches or sit-ups, and cardiovascular exercises, such as running. Remember to take it easy when you exercise, because your body needs time to heal after having a baby.
Step 5
Get as much sleep as possible during this time, whether it is during the day or evening. Exhaustion can lead to hunger, causing you to consume extra calories throughout the day.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor before attempting to lose weight. Depending on your situation, you may need to wait before exercising or cutting calories.
- Avoid losing a lot of weight at once. Aim to lose about 1 to 2 lbs. each week to avoid stretch marks or saggy skin.
