It can be frustrating to look forward to fitting into your old clothes once again, only to find that it can take time to get back to your pre-pregnancy size, commonly from 9-12 months.
While many believe breastfeeding is the ultimate postpartum weight-loss solution, it's not necessarily true. Breastfeeding moms burn 300–500 calories a day, but that may not be enough to shed extra pounds left over from pregnancy.
Losing 2–4 pounds a month is healthiest for you. The weight is more likely to stay off if you lose it in small increments over time rather than dropping a lot of pounds in a short period (which many fad diets claim they can do).
The best way to lose weight—at any age and under most circumstances—is regular exercise, a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables, lean protein and whole grains. Watching your meal and snack portion sizes also helps.
To get more exercise in:
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Try taking a brisk walk each day with your baby in a stroller or carrier—or during your lunch hour if you’re back at work. That’s a good start to getting back in shape and keeping your energy up.
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Find a friend who also wants to get started and walk with her.
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Shoot for more moderate physical activity—the kind that gets your heart pumping for 20 minutes—3 times a week. Try a treadmill or jumping rope at home. You’ll see a difference within a few weeks.
- Strength training, such as lifting weights, twice a week will also tone your muscles.
Once you’re in a routine of regular exercise, you’ll find you miss it if you skip a day, and soon you’ll be back in those pre-pregnancy clothes.
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Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here. |