3 of 30

Write now Article Tools

A new baby is a miracle of life; however it can have a negative impact on a woman's body. With all the beautiful Victoria's Secret models being flaunted in the faces of new mothers, it is hard not to look at yourself in the mirror and be positive. Unless you are a Hollywood superstar who can afford a personal trainer, then chances are you are going to have to go about losing weight the old fashioned way; diet and/or exercise.

DON'T RUSH
Remember, it took nine months to put on the weight, taking it off will not happen instantly. Depending on your pre-pregnancy weight, you have just put on anywhere from 15lbs to maybe as much as 60lbs or more. Just after the birth of your baby, your primary focus should be just that, on the baby. Take time to bond with your bundle of joy and shower your newborn with attention.

TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR
Do not attempt to do any exercises or dieting without first talking with your OBGYN. You can do this at your postpartum checkup which is usually done around 6-8wks after your baby is born. Your doctor will check to make sure your uterus is back in position and will make sure your cervix has closed properly. Exercising before your checkup can have negative effects on your health.

BREASTFEED
Nursing mothers need at least 1800-2000 calories per day minimum as that new baby is taking up around 1000 of those calories. Breastfeeding mothers lose weight faster because your body is using the stored energy in fat to make milk, thus milk going to the baby.

EAT HEALTHIER
This seems obvious yet is hard to actually do. Avoid foods with empty calories, such as donuts and cakes. Try to build your diet to include whole wheat pasta, fruits and grains. Skip the dressing on your salads and drink water instead of coffee and soft drinks. Change your diet to include leaner meats such as chicken and substitute ground turkey in place of ground beef in your recipes. This will not only help you shed those post pregnancy pounds, but it will make you feel better overall.

EXERCISE
I know you are thinking you do not have time to actually exercise; however you do not have to do a structured program to get fit. You can take a walk everyday or lay on the floor and use your baby as a weight to build your arm and leg muscles. If you have stairs in your home, then climb them by making frequent trips up and down the steps. Carry your baby in a sling as often as possible. Not only is wearing your baby beneficial for your child, but wearing the extra weight will help you shed extra calories.

SNACK SENSIBLY
Instead of snacking on chips throughout the day, grab some nuts, popcorn or raisins when you feel the need to munch.

In the end just try to remember that having that supermodel body is not what your focus should be; you should be focusing on making sure your new baby has all the love and attention they need. Childbirth is a miracle and those extra pounds after your baby should be nothing to be ashamed about. Even if you can't do all of the recommended tips for losing weight, just wait till your baby starts walking; that in itself is a whole new exercise program!

Learn more about this author, Adina Carter Allen.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to lose weight after having a baby?
We want to hear your view. Write now!