by Elaina Marcotte

Created on: September 20, 2008   Last Updated: November 01, 2008

70lbs. That is how much weight I put on during my pregnancy. When the typical weight gain is 25-35lbs, needless to say, wow I was tipping the scales. But I am very proud to say I now weigh less than I did before I got pregnant. How did I do it? I will not lie to you and say it was easy, but the changes I made in my life creating the results were and as the results progressed, my success only made it easier as my accomplishments were exciting and continuously motivating.

So what is it that we need to do to get our bodies back? First of all focus on diet. I stopped eating such a ridiculous amount of food everyday, as I was no longer ravenously hungry anymore. It is very important to eat a well balanced healthy diet full of nutrient rich foods and to skip on the empty calories, such as the high sugar and processed fast foods. But do remember, everything in moderation, it is possible to lose weight and still give into your sweet tooth.
Second I breast fed my child which does fabulous things for your child and yourself also. Breast feeding burns a lot of calories in the milk production, but remember if you are breastfeeding you still need extra calories everyday for milk production.
Third I got active. I remember how tired I was in the days of the new born, but exercising will actually give you more energy. Start with stretches, these slow movements will relax you, get the blood flowing and prevent injuries. Then take a walk. Walking or power walking is excellent for your health and a good exercise to start out with, it is best to avoid running, jogging or jumping exercises for about 6-8 weeks after delivery. While you are pregnant your body produces a hormone called relaxin which actually does relax your joints and can consequently make you more prone to injuries. But once that time is up you can start adding to your workout, perhaps all of that power walking has prepared you to start jogging, but if you are not there yet you can add things to your walk routine such as deep lunges and sets of high steps, every movement counts.
Other ideas to get you moving are, put baby in a sling and dance, sing have a good time. Just get moving! Remember it took 9 months to grow your baby and put on the weight, it will take time to get it all off but if you eat healthy and in moderation and keep moving, which really is hard not to do with a baby, success will be yours!

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