You just had your baby, and emotions are running high. The arrival of your newborn brings overwhelming joy. Yet your feelings may also be mixed when dealing with body changes.
But, oh yes, you can lose that baby weight.
Most women lose half of their baby weight six weeks postpartum. You can figure on returning to your pre-pregnancy weight between 6 to 8 months after delivery.
But, did you know that by baby’s first birthday, 25 percent of new mothers are still holding on to excess postpartum weight gain?
If you're a new mom and eager to get out of those stretched-out elastic waistbands and feel slim again, read on.
There is a smart way to safely lose weight, keep your energy levels up, and promote lifelong good health.
(For continued motivation, take some before-and-after weight loss pictures.)
Weight Loss: Before and After
According to The U.S. National Library of Medicine, weight loss of about 10 to 15 pounds takes care of itself by one week after delivery.
At this point, your body needs TLC as much as your new baby, so rest well and be kind to yourself, too. Before making any dietary changes, wait for your 6-week check-up to get an all-clear from your doctor.
Breastfeeding women will lose weight naturally as breastfeeding can burn 500 calories per day. So, losing weight or undertaking extreme diets is not necessary as it can also affect milk supply and be a detriment to baby’s health.
DO NOT go on a fast crash diet (not eating enough). You may lose pounds, but mostly fluids at first, and the weight will come back. Other pounds lost may be muscle instead of fat.
Meanwhile, adopting the following eating tips while pregnant goes a long way toward establishing healthy lifestyle habits for both baby and mom.
