How To Losing Weight after Pregnancy

So you just had a baby and sleepless nights, changing diapers and feeding have become your routine. You just don’t have the time to think about losing those pregnancy pounds. But once your baby becomes more manageable and you find more time for yourself, you will be left wondering why those maternity clothes are still part of your wardrobe.

Weight gain during pregnancy is inevitable. Your body needs extra energy for the growth and development of the baby and for delivery. During childbirth, most women lose around 10 pounds. That includes the weight of the baby, amniotic fluid and placenta. Further weight loss occurs as the body loses the fluids it retained during pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, you may lose some more weight since breastfeeding burns calories. That leaves you with the last few pounds, which are often the most difficult to get rid of.

How can you lose those extra pounds you are carrying over from your pregnancy?

• First and foremost, do not go in for crash diets. Nutrition is just as important after pregnancy, especially if you are breastfeeding. Even if you choose not to breastfeed, nutrition is still important since your body needs it to recover from the rigors of childbirth. You need to eat healthy.
• Let your diet comprise of foods rich in fiber and proteins. Go in for plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lentils and beans.
• Choose skimmed or low fat dairy products. Include skimmed milk and low fat yoghurt which are rich sources of calcium and vitamin D.
• Avoid junk food altogether. Trans fats present in fast food are the main culprits in heart ailments.
• Eat small frequent meals instead of traditional meals just like you used to when you were pregnant.
• If you have an urge to snack or feast on comfort foods, distract yourself. Go for a walk with your baby or catch up with friends.