The ‘bundle’ of joy
Being pregnant is not only a magnificent time of a woman’s life, but it is also a guaranteed weight increaser. Common areas where women gain weight? The waist and hips. Typically, a pregnant woman gains about 25-30 pounds, but after birth, only around 12-15 of the total pounds are lost. Breastfeeding helps burn off calories, subtracting an additional ½ a pound per week. However, the remaining 8-12 pounds require time to disappear, but by staying focused on your dieting plan and trying to get some much-needed sleep, you can achieve your pre-pregnancy weight again. Perhaps you’ll even lose more!
New moms are often tired and constantly busy taking care of their newborn, which makes losing weight even more difficult. Try to compose a support network of family or friends who you can count on helping you during this time. Announce your desire to lose the baby weight, and allow them to help you obtain a little bit of time for yourself to meet this goal. No matter what, make sure your doctor is aware of your intentions and can review your plan for safety and medical conditions, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Joining a gym or investing in some exercise tapes are things you can do at home while your baby is sleeping. Begin slowly and don’t overdo it; even if you were active pre-pregnancy, your body needs to adapt to its current state. Have patience and give your body time to get used to being active.
Use everyday activities to lose weight, such as strolling in the park or neighborhood. Take some hills along the way or start a stroller group with other moms who share similar goals. This is a great way to meet new mothers, get your exercise and gain a peer-based support group for your weight-loss and wellness goals. Super-athletes can buy jogging strollers and really pump up their workout plan.
Once again, keep this simple tip in mind. Write down everything you eat, it’s repeated for a reason. It makes you mindful and aware of everything you’re eating. Knowing this can help you target what is working and what is not. Then you have the power to change your diet appropriately. And be honest! You have nothing to gain by ‘fudging’ in your journal. Review your food journal from time to time to check for any extra calories you may be consuming, that may have gone unnoticed. Also, the diary helps to pinpoint key trigger times, and makes it easier to maintain your diet plan.
Try to stick with a time-tested plan instead of any crash diets or severely restricting your caloric intake. Your doctor will know how many calories you require during this time, especially if you are breastfeeding.
Patience and determination are essential in obtaining that pre-pregnancy body soon. Just be sure that a gradual weight loss plan is implemented and keep wellness at the forefront.