After carrying a baby for nine months, most new moms are eager to regain their pre-pregnancy bodies. Every new mom’s body is different, and so is the time it takes to get back in shape.
But it is important to remember that every step towards weight loss counts and it is never too late to start.
Start with Light Exercises
The most crucial and initial step is to consult your doctor and begin light exercises. Light exercises may include walking, stretching, yoga, and Pilates. They are effective, safe, and easy to perform.
These low-impact exercises will not only help you to lose weight but also give you the strength to handle tasks that come with motherhood. A 30-minute walk or jog in the morning or evening can get the body metabolism started and boost energy levels.
Do Not Starve Yourself
A common mistake that most women make is drastically decreasing their food intake in hopes of losing weight. It is crucial to note that starvation only weakens the body and promotes binge eating.
New moms should focus on a healthy diet that helps them get all the nutrients they need and still lose weight. It is advisable to consume foods that are rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins like lean meat, fish, and beans.
Avoid Processed Food
Processed foods contain high levels of saturated fats, sugars, and salt. They have fewer nutrients and do not promote good health. Instead of consuming processed snacks, opt for healthy and quick substitutes like nuts, fruits, and vegetables.
This will also help reduce inflammation in the body, and reduce bloating and puffiness.
Get Enough Rest
A good night’s sleep is essential to the human body, especially for new moms. It is important to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every day. Sleep helps to restore the body’s energy, lower stress levels and improve metabolism.
If you can’t get a solid 7-8 hours of sleep at once, try for naps throughout the day when possible.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Drinking enough water is essential for everyone, especially new moms. Drinking enough water helps to flush out toxins, reduce bloating, and increase metabolism. It is recommended to consume at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
Alternate to drinking plain water, infuse it with seasonal fruits like oranges, watermelon, or strawberries to give it a little flavor.
Weight Lifting
Weight lifting, or resistance training, is a powerful tool to help moms lose weight after pregnancy. Lifting weights builds muscle which helps to speed up the metabolism and burn more fat.
Weight training can also help build strength in areas like the back and shoulders which can be strained when carrying a newborn. Start with lighter weights and gradually increase the resistance as your strength improves.
Avoid Comparisons
It is essential to remember that every woman’s body is different, and everyone’s weight loss journey is unique. Do not compare your progress with others or focus too much on what you used to look like.
Focus on making healthy choices, enjoying motherhood, and feeling good. It takes time to get back to your pre-pregnancy body, but it is possible with patience, persistence, and a positive attitude.
Join a Mommy Group
Joining a mommy group can help ease the burden of caring for a newborn and provide an excellent opportunity to share experiences and ideas.
These groups not only provide emotional support but also have access to resources and information that can help a new mom recover their pre-pregnancy shape. These groups also provide workout sessions that cater specifically to new moms and helps add variety to your routine.
Stay Consistent
Consistency is key when it comes to trying to shed extra weight. Aim to work out regularly, eat well-balanced meals, and get adequate rest. Celebrate any small progress made towards the goal, and give yourself time to adjust.
Do not get demotivated if the results are not instant, as it takes time to lose weight.
In conclusion, losing weight after pregnancy is not an easy feat, and it requires a lot of hard work, patience, and persistence. It is important to remember that every journey, every baby, and every mom is different.
Do not focus on the scale too much but be proud of the efforts and healthy choices made each day. With a healthy diet, regular exercise, and self-care, new moms can achieve their pre-pregnancy shape and become happier and healthier.