Healthy Ways to Lose Weight After Pregnancy

There are a lot of obstacles and factors to consider when losing baby weight. Your body went through extraordinary pain and physiological changes during childbirth. It needs enough time, rest, and proper nutrition to heal and recover. Hence, losing weight after giving birth must be done carefully and in a healthy way.

Timing is critical in getting back into shape after pregnancy. It can take you longer to recover and avoid the risk of illness by losing weight too soon. It is important to allow your body to heal before starting any weight loss routine. Give it at least 6 to 8 weeks to be safe. Anyway, half of excess fats from pregnancy often comes off naturally after 6 weeks.

Taking care of the baby involves a lot of physical activity and sleepless nights. It can drain you easily and may cause drastic weight loss which is unhealthy. You need a good amount of energy and nutrition to take care of the baby. Crashing into diet or doing exhausting activities is not a good idea during this stage. It may weaken your body which is the opposite of what you want when having a baby.

Do not skip meals or do a fad diet that limits certain types of food. Staying healthy while losing weight should be your goal. Go for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. Eat 5 to 6 small meals a day instead of 3 large meals to help your body digest well. Include fiber-rich foods or proteins when grabbing snacks. Fiber helps burn fats fast and protein keeps you full which prevents cravings. Choose broiled or baked rather than fried food. And avoid sweets such as soft drinks, juices, and cakes as they contain high calories.

Monitoring your calories plays an important role in your weight loss journey. Reducing calorie intake is helpful in losing weight. However, your body requires 500 kcal more than you need before pregnancy. It is essential for breastfeeding as low-calorie diet may affect your milk supply.

Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to get back into shape after childbirth. It is natural and ensures that your baby is getting the right nutrients. Breastfeeding can burn at least 500 kcal a day. Furthermore, it stimulates shrinking of the uterus which is helpful in getting rid of bulging belly.

Daily exercise is of course another healthy way to lose weight. Once your body is ready to burn some pounds you can start working out. Safely and slowly by taking a walk in your block with your baby in a stroller. Then increase the intensity day by day. Take it slowly, especially if you stopped your usual routine exercises during pregnancy.

Time is one of your biggest challenge in losing baby weight. Taking care of a baby is a lot. It can consume almost all your time. You have to feed the baby and change diapers 24 hours a day. 7 days a week. It is hard to manage time during this period especially for first time moms. You have to deal with sleepless nights and body pains from carrying the baby. Working out may be your lowest priority. But with enough motivation, it is possible.

It is important to be realistic in your weight loss journey. It can be harder and may take more time than you expect. Be patient. You’ll get there. However, be prepare that your body may not return to your exact shape pre-baby. You may have a larger waistline, wider hips, or softer belly. That’s okay. Remember that you gave birth to a beautiful baby who adores every inch of you.