Congratulations! You've just had a baby, and you can't wait to lose the extra weight you've gained. Here are a few tips to make sure you trim down in a healthy way.
6. A Little R&R. If you've just had a baby, you're going to need some recoup time--about six weeks according to most sources. I know you really want to get back to looking like your old self, but first things first, let your body normalize before demanding it to change again.
5. Breastfeed. You're going to love this one. According to the Surgeon General, breastfeeding burns 600-800 calories. That's right. You can just sit and be with your little one, and you're already moving on your way to a slimmer, trimmer you. Some women attest to returning to their former shape just by doing this.
4. Sleep It Off. You're thinking these tips are too good to be true, but yes, sleep is a key component to normalizing the body and regulating metabolism. A Harvard Medical School study found that getting at least 7 hours of sleep helped postpartum women lose more weight than women who slept less. I can hear the snorts of contempt out there. Yes, the baby's 3am feeding time can get in the way of that goal, but now you have an extra reason to coerce your significant other into helping out with those late night feedings. Napping when the baby naps can be helpful too.
3. Pushing the Stroll. Walking is often maligned as a sub-standard form of exercise, but actually, it's great for increasing blood circulation, working those leg muscles, and burning calories. Add a stroller into the mix, and you may have a pretty good workout that you can do with your baby every day for 30 minutes.
2. Lots of Little Meals. Everyone seems to agree that 5 to 6 small meals a day is the way to go. Make sure to mix in a bunch of veggies for all their great nutrients. Figs, dates, and raisins are some healthful foods with a little natural sugar-kick to get you past those chocolate craving days.
1. Keep It Gradual. I know you really want to lose the weight, but the National Academy for the Sciences recommends only losing 4 to 5 pounds per month for breastfeeding mothers. Take your time. You'll get there.
And of course, once you get back into the swing of things, you may want to return to a more serious fitness routine or maybe even begin a new one. Check out the Easy Exercise swicki or the Healthy Pregnancy swicki for more exercise and health tips to help remove the last of that baby weight. Good luck!