Pregancy weight loss

Post-pregnancy weight loss is not always easy and sometimes seems almost impossible. Hang in there! Bear in mind that for nine months your body had quite a rough ride, particularly during your baby´s birth. So, the priority now is to allow your body enough time and resources to get itself back to normal. There is nothing against dieting sensibly to help get rid of the post-baby bulge, but you would be making a big mistake if you try to diet too hard. Some weight loss experts quote the rule for dieting after giving birth of "Nine months on, nine months off," meaning that no matter which (sensible) diet you choose, you shouldn't worry if you don't return to your normal weight until around nine months after giving birth.

Nine months might seem too long to lose weight but post-pregnancy weight loss is not the same thing as trying to lose weight after bad habits or overeating. It's also a healing and recuperation process. So it really is important that you don´t overdo it - and definitely no fad diets such as "the Cabbage Soup Diet".

Many nutritional supplements, vitamins or minerals can help speed up your recovery time. But remember: it is very important to seek medical advice before taking any. Make sure that (a) they won't provoke any adverse reactions while you're recovering from birth, and (b) that they won't adversely affect your baby through your breast milk (if you are breast-feeding).

Unfortunately, patience is the watchword even more than during regular dieting. Aim to shed no more than 1.5-2 lb per week -- not more than this. Also remember, if you are breast-feeding, that your breast measurements will vary quite a bit, -- don't evaluate your weight loss or dieting success by their appearance or measurements! Instead, use the measuring-tape on your waistline, hips or even your face.

If you are looking for motivation, why not bring some of your favorite pre-pregnancy clothes to the front of the closet and aim to get back into them within nine months?

Exercise can be very useful for losing weight and toning post-pregnancy. But your new schedule probably means that finding time to exercise is not as simple as it once was! Nevertheless, light stretches at home won´t take too much time and can help relax you too. Yoga and Pilates are especially useful for helping regain good posture. As and when life gets into a new routine, try to add walking, swimming and cycling -- your baby may benefit from them too! He or she can view the scenery from a three-wheeler while you´re jogging or walking, come out cycling with you in a weatherproof 'trailer', and accompany you in the pool for gentle backstroke or treading water. Lots of babies love mom's exercise time!

Apply the same common-sense to exercising as you would to dieting: stay relaxed about it, don´t overdo it and be patient. Concentrate on good health -- as a mom you need to be in good shape for your busy life!

Good luck!