Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Post-Pregnancy Weight Loss: 5 Easy Tips

By Patsie Adams

You just gave birth, your 8-pound baby is out and you still get asked When are you due? Its horrible really, but post-pregnancy weight loss takes time and effort. This article will discuss what it takes to get you back in shape post-delivery. Yes, you can reclaim your body post-baby!

But first, keep your expectations in check. Your body went through major changes growing and carrying your baby for those 9 months. It's not realistic to expect it to get back in shape in a snap.

Post-pregnancy, your body is still recovering. Diet pills or quick weight loss programs are a no-no for women who just gave birth. Suddenly getting back into strenuous exercise is also not advisable. Keep these in mind to make sure you and your baby are both healthy.

But do not lose heart. There ARE ways to lose weight post-pregnancy. Just be smart about it. Here are 5 great tips for losing weight after baby:

1. Nurse your baby. Breast feeding shrinks your uterus and tummy back into shape. Feeding your baby your own milk also burns up to about 500 or more calories per day. Breast milk is the bast kind of nutrition you can give your baby AND at the same time, will help you get back in shape post-pregnancy.

2. Eat well. Avoid the usual high fat, high sugar and high sodium foods. These foods are not only high calorie - they are low in nutrition. Opt to eat plenty of fruits, whole grains, fiber rich food and a good amount of lean protein to keep you strong and healthy enough to care for your baby - not to mention trim down those extra inches.

3. Hydrate. If you are breast feeding, it is extra important to drink plenty of fluids. Drinking plenty of water will also cleanse your system as it aids in digestion and helps your body get rid of toxins. Regular bathroom trips and a clean system are very useful for post-pregnancy weight loss!

4. Ease back into exercise. Any mom should also take some time off from baby-duty. We all need to take care of ourselves so we can take good care of our babies! A good way to spend mommy-time is by doing some light to moderate exercise. A daily walk can be done by practically anyone. A light dance class or a light cardio class in the gym could work as well. Of course, check with your doctor first to see if you have the go-signal to start doing all this after giving birth.

5. Bond and Burn. Get active while bonding with your baby. Choose activities that involve some action that burns calories. Take the baby to walks in the park. Do some mommy-and-baby yoga classes. Bond and burn!

Post-pregnancy weight loss is totally doable. Having the baby is no excuse for you to keep those extra pounds on. Many have lost weight after giving birth. You can too!

Just remember: it takes some time and effort. Be disciplined with your food and stick to your exercise schedule. Follow our top 5 tips! Yes, you CAN get back into shape post-pregnancy! - 29161

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