A Postpartum Diet Guide for Smart Eating

Most mothers have realized that their bodies will never be exactly the same after pregnancy. Our bodies gain extra weight for the baby, are hormonal and stretched out. While this may sound like no picnic, motherhood is still one of the best gifts in life.

It can be difficult to lose weight after pregnancy, but with the right diet and exercise plan, it can be successful. One thing to keep in mind, is that you won't turn to your previous weight right away. It is true that after giving birth and losing all of the "water weight" (amniotic fluid and placenta) you will lose about 10 pounds-but this is natural-losing the rest of the weight will take a lot of hard work.

Do not start dieting too soon after giving birth. Your body will need time to recover and heal. The normal time to lose weight after pregnancy is usually after your first six-week check-up. If you are a mother who is breastfeeding, you should wait until your baby is at least two months old to start any weight loss plan.

When you begin your diet, start out by eating less and being more active. If the weather is warm and comfortable outside, take your baby out in the stroller for a walk. Walking is great exercise and a good way to begin your exercise plan. You might ask other moms in your area to join you. Try starting a walking group for new moms so that you can lose weight together.

While you should consume less food, do not put yourself on a strict diet. Keep in mind, that most women still need at least 1,200 calories per day. Other women may still need 1,500 to 2,200 calories. Nursing mothers need a minimum of 1,800 calories. These calories will help keep you energized and healthy. Never skip a meal to lose weight. Try eating smaller meals throughout the day. Think of food as your fuel for exercise. Always start the day with breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Skipping breakfast actually can cause you to eat more food in the long run.

Begin your diet by adding more fruits and vegetables. Drink fruit smoothies and eat raw vegetables (such as carrots and celery) as snacks. Fruit and vegetable salsa can also be a very appetizing snack too. You will also need to add more fluids to your daily diet. Drink at least eight to nine cups of fluids each day, but stay away from ones that are high in caffeine and sugar.

By following some of these important tips, you can start to see changes in your post-pregnancy body. Always keep in mind that any type of diet will take time. Losing weight after pregnancy will not happen over-night. Embrace your new postpartum body and its curves. Motherhood is a joy-so cherish the moments that you get to spend with your new baby. While your goal is to lose weight after pregnancy, try to spend as much time as you can with your baby too-it won't be long before they are all grown up.

Reference: http://www.babycenter.com/0_diet-for-healthy-post-baby-weight-loss_3566.bc?page=1