Lose Baby Weight
If you’ve recently had a baby, you are probably trying to figure out how to lose baby weight – those extra pounds you packed on during your pregnancy. It’s essential to understand that losing baby weight is a gradual process that takes persistence and willpower.
The weight loss experts at Total HealthcareMD have years of experience helping new moms meet their weight loss goals through healthy dieting and individualized exercise plans. Here are several of our tips to help you work your way back to your pre-pregnancy body, improve your health, and regain the confidence you once had.
Lose Baby Weight Slowly
Remember that when you became pregnant, you gained weight slowly. Therefore, post baby weight loss should be a gradual process. Instead of focusing on losing a drastic amount of weight in a short period of time, new mothers should work on establishing healthy eating habits and sticking to the most effective exercise plans. You need to go easy on yourself and understand that it may take up to a year to lose all of your pregnancy weight.
Avoid Fad Diets
In an attempt to lose baby weight as fast as possible, many new moms are tempted to participate in a fad diet. The issue with fad diets is that they cut calories so drastically that as soon as someone loses weight, they quickly resume to their normal eating habits and cause their weight to come back. Portion control and eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy proteins and other nutritious options are a much better alternative to fad diets.
Eat High-Protein Foods
Foods that are full of protein are loaded with a hunger fighting hormones that will fill new mothers up even more than carbs. Protein rich foods such as beef, eggs, and fish also contain vitamin B12 and iron that will help boost energy levels. When selecting high-protein foods, be sure to select lean cuts of meat instead of meats with an excess amount of saturated fat.
Stay Hydrated
Aside from preventing dehydration, drinking plenty of water throughout the day can keep new mothers full, increase their metabolism, and prevent them from eating too many calories. To determine whether or not you are drinking enough, check the color of urine. If it is relatively clear and you are using the restroom every few hours, you are probably good to go.
Follow Exercise Plans
It is highly recommended for new mothers to wait at least six weeks before working out again. Working out too soon can lengthen your recovery time and cause long term damage to your stomach muscles. Once your doctor has let you know that you can begin exercising again, start with low impact exercises such as walking, jogging, or yoga. As time goes on, you can slowly intensify your workout and start participating in higher impact exercise plans.
Most importantly, new mothers should understand that losing weight after having a baby takes time, dedication, and patience. Total HealthcareMD is pleased to offer weight loss plans for both pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Contact us today for more information.