How to Lose Weight After Having a Baby

If you've ever been pregnant, you know that your body will retain extra calories to supplement the baby's growth. After the birth of the baby, your body will need time to recover and get back to normal. Having a new baby can be very stressful and caring for the baby will demand all your time and energy. It is important to be patient when it comes to weight loss during the first few months after giving birth.

1. Mild exercise can be good for a new mother, but too much exercise can actually do more harm than good. Talk to your doctor and ask what types of exercises would be appropriate for you. Mild exercise can help alleviate stress and improve your mood. It will also help increase your energy level and help you feel better physically. Exercise during the first two or three months after giving birth is not intended for weight loss. A new mother needs extra calories if she is breast-feeding, so trying to lose weight too soon is not healthy for you or your baby.

2. You can start seriously thinking about a weight loss plan after your body has had time to recover. A good sign is when your period is back to its regular cycle. Ask you doctor to help you devise a healthy weigh loss regime. Make sure you take any vitamins or supplements you may need and don't eat a lot of "junk food". Don't try to lose too much weight too fast. That's too stressful for your body and could cause health problems.

3. Some women seem to drop their "baby fat" almost over night, while others struggle for months to lose the extra weight. Some never lose it. Statistically, women gain about 30 pounds during pregnancy. About twelve pounds will be shed during the birth, leaving the new mom with about 20 pounds to lose. Typically, those 20 pounds can be shed in about six months. Everyone is different, so don't expect exact results.

4. There are some wonderful weight loss and exercise programs for new mothers that include the baby. Not only do these programs give the moms an opportunity to meet and socialize with other mothers, they help create a stronger bond between mother and child. They are also wonderful for mothers who need help getting motivated to exercise, but don't want to join a gym because they can't take the baby with them.

5. Spend time focusing on your new little addition, and don't worry too much about a few extra pounds. With a little time, patience and planning, you will be able to lose the weight and get back that "girlish figure".

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