Post-Baby Weight Loss

Women tend to gain thirty or more pounds when they become pregnant because that is simply what their body and the baby need to develop properly. But once a woman has delivered her baby all that extra weight doesn't just fall off. In fact it may stick around for quite some time, leaving women frustrated and feeling unattractive. Losing post-baby weight can be difficult but with a little effort and a plan, every woman can lose the weight and get her pre-pregnancy body back within a few months.

  1. Breast-feeding

    • According to a study done by the University of Georgia, along with many other studies, breast-feeding promotes weight loss. This is because breast-feeding is actual work and forces your body to burn up to 500 calories per day to produce the milk needed for the baby. Those who exclusively breast-feed lose more weight than women who mix breast-feeding with formula feeding. So let your babies breast-feed because not only is it healthier for them, but it's beneficial for you as well.

    Walking with Baby

    • Taking the baby for a daily walk is good for both of you. Just 30 minutes of walking each day (1 1/2 miles) will help you burn 150 calories. Also going up and down the stairs for 15 minutes will help you burn the same amount. So get out in that fresh air and push the stroller or walk up and down stairs with your little one enough each day and you'll be on your way.

    Sleep

    • Even though it will be difficult to sleep since your baby will be getting up every couple hours needing to be fed and changed, you need to sleep. Take naps when the baby does so your system functions properly. Lack of sleep makes the body crave unhealthy carbs and fast energy boosts which will work against your weight loss goals. You actually burn calories as you sleep so take advantage of the time you have to rest and know it's really what's best for you.

    Avoid Fat and Empty Calories

    • Cut out the fat and empty calories such as soda, chips and candy. If you're breast-feeding you should still be eating as well as you did if you were pregnant as what you eat goes directly into your breastmilk and to your little one. Cutting out these unnecessary fats and calories will help you drop weight more quickly.

    Lift the Baby

    • Lifting weights will help speed up your metabolism while burning calories and toning your muscles. Instead of using actual hand weights, though, use your baby. This gives you bonding time with your baby so you're keeping her entertained and getting your valubale mommy time while also fitting in those workouts. Do squats, lunges and lifts with your baby as your weight.