Many mothers notice that the extra kilos they had gained during pregnancy do not just disappear after delivery. While you might lose some weight due to the fluid loss, the abdominal pouch sticks around. Know that the weight you are carrying is absolutely normal.
Many mothers have also expressed their desire to shed those extra pounds and be like they were before pregnancy. In this post, we’ve shared some weight loss tips after pregnancy by a gynaecologist in Thane. These will help you get in shape while sticking to a healthy diet and steady lifestyle changes.
How to Lose Baby Weight?
Postpartum weight loss is absolutely possible. The goal is to be consistent rather than rushing with extreme diets and heavy workouts. Here are the tips that can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Be Practical: Set realistic goals
The best you can do is lose 0.5 kg to 1 kg per week. For most mothers, it takes around 6 months to get back to their pre-pregnancy weight. That said, every woman has a different body. Avoid comparing yourself to others and stay consistent with your diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Avoid a Crash Diet
A Crash diet is never the answer to quick postpartum weight loss. Instead of skipping diets or going on harsh dieting plans, you should stick to healthy eating habits, such as whole grains, lean proteins, and fruits and vegetables. Cut down your calorie intake. Remember, a crash diet can affect your breastmilk supply and might also cause nutritional deficiency.
Breastfeed Often
Some mothers find breastfeeding as the healthiest and natural way to lose weight. As your body uses up energy to produce breastmilk, it’s possible to lose a few pounds. Others, however, do not notice a significant change in their weight.
Monitor Your Calorie Intake
On average, a woman needs 1800 to 2200 calories per day. The count is higher for breastfeeding mothers. Instead of avoiding calories altogether, focus on eating when you are hungry, stopping when full, and eating nutrient-rich food.
Eat High-Fibre Foods
Fibre has many benefits for women during pregnancy and postpartum. It helps keep you full for longer periods, prevents constipation, and supports your gut health.
Keep Healthy Snacks Handy
It’s natural to feel hungry often when you are starting breastfeeding. Swap chips, chocolates, pastries, and other junk for healthy snacks, such as dried fruits, whole fresh fruits, yoghurt, boiled eggs, and peanut butter.
Get Moving
Exercising is a good way to keep your weight in check. You don’t need to join a gym. Stick to the simple physical activities, such as walking, especially if you have had a C-section. Build intensity gradually when your doctor says you are ready.
Conclusion
Extra pounds gained during pregnancy are absolutely normal and nothing to worry about. It shows what your body did to bring a new life into this world. However, there’s nothing wrong with trying to lose some pounds and feel like yourself. Go slow, be consistent, and follow a healthy lifestyle. You will see the changes within weeks.
