After giving birth, a common question haunts all the moms.
How to get back to your pre-pregnancy shape back.
It’s natural to have the desire to fit in your favorite pair of jeans, which stopped zipping up soon after the first trimester.
Amiright mamas?
But, the idea is to not rush into things too quickly.
The weight gained, over a period of nine months, cannot and should not be expected to melt down in a matter of weeks.
A healthier approach should be made, which will eventually lead you to those pair of jeans 😉
Here are my ten tips to help you get your pre-pregnancy body back so that your clothes fit once and for all!
How to Get Back Your Pre-Pregnancy Body Back
1. Take A Deep Breath
First things first.
Give yourself a break. It is okay that you gained weight. And, if you follow a few healthy habits the weight will come off. But, don’t start any fad diets or start doing ab crunches already.
Your doctor will first clear you if you can start working out, and when can that happen.
2. Stay Hydrated
Water is, your best friend. It will not only make your skin glow but also keep your hunger pangs in check. Many times people mistake thirst for hunger and hence end up eating more.
If you are a nursing mother, then water also helps with the production of milk.
3. Continue BreastFeeding
If you are breastfeeding, then I have an extra good news for you.
We know that breastmilk is great for babies. But, did you know that breastfeeding also burns calories?
Not that it should be the reason to nurse your baby. Why I mention this, is because when a mother breastfeeds, she tends to feel more hungry. And, these hunger cravings can be disastrous for your pre-pregnancy body goal. Hence, you need to be cautious.
4. Eating The Right Food
As a rule of thumb, always listen to your body.
There will be days when you eat more and days when you eat less. Not to ignore the days, when you eat a LOT. But, when you decide to start losing weight then try to make a few changes in your eating habits.
A lactating mother needs 500 more calories, and I feel this should not be ignored.
Although, it is very easy to surpass those extra 500 calories to 1000 or more. So it is essential, to eat smaller frequent meals.
Some Foods You Might Want To Stock On
- Wholemeal pasta, rice etc
- Leafy vegetables
- Eggs, Fish, Lean Meat
- Fruits
- Nuts
- Milk
- Oats
- Smoothies
I will not suggest avoiding sugar completely if you have a sweet tooth.
Try to swap milk chocolate for dark and have a date or two, instead of pastries and cakes. I do not believe in deprivation and, the idea is to enjoy the “journey”.
Also, the quality of your milk should not decline, so the diet needs to be healthy. And, you should be in a healthy state of mind as well.
5. Sleep
A good night’s sleep is but a dream for a new mom.
However, sleep plays a huge role in both, your mental as well as physical health. They say it takes a village to raise a child. And, they are not wrong! So, please get all the help you need.
Ask your mom,mom-in-law, sister, to move in with you for some time. You will be surprised, at how even a few hours of “good” night’s sleep without worrying about your little one can do to your health.
6. Join Support Groups
When I had my twins, I really wanted to talk to other mom’s going through similar emotions or having similar questions.
There are lots of forums, live chat options out there. Plus, it will give you that extra push to get things done if you find someone for accountability.
Two of my favorite websites are:
SparkPeople also has an app, which can help you post in forums. Plus, you can log in your food and workout details in their tracker.
7. Try Walking
Till your doctor gives you the green signal for working out, start walking.
Go outdoors with your baby in the pram. Or, just walk indoors.
There are a gazillion YouTube Walking videos which are easy to follow and require very little space. This will help you burn some calories and also release endorphins which will make you happy.
8. Buy Nice Work Out Clothes
Invest in some pretty and girly workout clothes. Please do not wait, to reach the perfect size before you treat yourself to a neat work out gear. You should feel pretty and worthy.
As you lose weight, you buy a smaller size which will boost your determination.
9. Take Help Of A Professional
At times, motherhood can be overwhelming, and you might feel that you are walking in circles.
Maybe, it’s time to seek the help of a professional. Weight Watchers offers a plan for new / nursing moms as well. Maybe a single consultation, with a dietician in your area will clear your doubts better. You need to decide what will work for you.
10. Be Patient
This kind of gets us back to the beginning.
Give yourself time. And, by the time I do not mean six weeks. I mean six months at least. Let this be a slow and steady process, which also lets you enjoy the milestones of your baby, as well.
Bonus Tips
- Make a gratitude journal, and write in it daily. It will just keep you happy.
- Try to drink a glass of water before every meal.
- Get rid of the unhealthy stash, that you know might end up in your mouth.
- Be consistent, despite the setbacks.
- Take care of yourself. Look good, feel good.
With Support You’ll Lose the Baby Weight
Losing your baby weight can happen mamas! Follow these steps and get back in to your pre-pregnancy weight in no time!
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