It can be extremely frustrating and exhausting trying to lose the extra weight after giving birth to a child. And although we love our children and it is a wonderful experience, that extra baby weight can haunt us for much longer than we should allow it to. Fortunately for us, our bodies are fairly resilient in finding its normal shape again; it just might take some coaxing and guidance. Here is a guide and some simple steps to losing after-childbirth weight while keeping your sanity in tact.
Don’t compare yourself
Sounds crazy, but with every celebrity out there having babies and then losing the weight in “just one week” it can become quite depressing for a “normal” woman trying to do the same thing. If you had millions of dollars to spend on a personal trainer, another million or so to spend on a nanny to watch the baby while you’re working out, and someone to cook healthy meals for you all day long you might have a chance at losing the after childbirth weight really quickly. Unfortunately those things are not at our every day disposal. It generally takes the average woman six months to get the body she once knew back to its original shape; for some it even takes longer. Try not to compare yourself to the celebrities that have babies and are walking down the red carpet the next week; it’s unreasonable and will do nothing for your self esteem.
Healthy eating
Healthy eating is extremely important when it comes to losing weight and getting your body back. Naturally, with so many changes going on in your body you’re going to be hungry and probably consuming more calories than you are used to. That’s why it takes some time to shed the extra pounds. Don’t get too frustrated though. The baby needs those extra calories just as much as you do. With that in mind however, don’t think that filling up on junk food and sweets is going to have the same effect that healthy meals and snacking will. Try to find fruits and vegetables that will boost your immune system and give you the needed vitamin and mineral requirements. Green leafy vegetables will give your body folic acid, as well as some other fruits. Vitamin C is a natural fat burner as well so look for foods that are high in vitamin B12, vitamin C, and folic acid. Instead of eating the fatty meats, try to eat lean proteins like fish, lean beef, or eggs. A healthy diet is the first step in getting back to your pre-pregnancy body.
Exercise
Once your body is ready you can begin exercising. Most doctors will tell you not to put any strain on your stomach or body for at least four weeks, and most will recommend that you not start an exercise program for about two to three months after having the baby and until you have started having regular periods. The time frame is different for every woman so you will have to judge for yourself if you’re ready to start exercising or not. Even if you aren’t ready for an exercise program, you can always start walking. Walking is a great way to begin burning some calories and for getting back into shape.
It takes more than just a few weeks to get back into your pre-pregnancy body so don’t expect too much at first; even if this is your first baby. These suggestions are just a general guide to losing after childbirth weight; if you have specific questions about getting back into shape make sure and ask your doctor the best route for you to take. Every woman is different; enjoy your body and give it time to recover.
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