10 quick tips to lose post-pregnancy weight

Every woman wants to lose weight and get back in shape after packing on all those pounds during pregnancy. It takes hard work and discipline to lose that stubborn fat but it’s not impossible. Check out 10 quick tips on how to get rid of the excess weight…

1. Get into yoga

Yoga works your body gently and it’s a wonderful way to lose those pounds after pregnancy. It relaxes the mind, body and gives you physical strength. Every stretch and pose activates your muscles – giving you a better posture while lightening up your mood.

2. Join Pilates

Pilates is a level higher in physicality compared to yoga. It helps tighten your tummy area, thighs and arms. However, don’t jump straight into Pilates right after you give birth because your body is not fully healed yet for this exercise. Start off with yoga for a few months before taking up Pilates.

3. Breastfeeding

Some women prefer not to breastfeed their child but little do they know that breastfeeding helps them lose baby fat. It helps you burn about 500 calories a day. According to Dr. Judith Roepke, those who continue breastfeeding their kids beyond 4 to 6 months continue to lose weight – reducing their hip, arms, thighs and belly size.

4. Eat a balanced and healthy meal

No deep-fried food, no soft drinks, and stay away from fast food so you won’t gain any unnecessary weight. Besides, you need healthy food in your system as your baby is getting all the nutrients from you. Most importantly, do not skip meals.

5. Cut down on carbohydrates

Eat only a fair amount of carbohydrates a day. Avoid bad carbs such as white bread and white rice but make sure you maintain above 1800 calories a day to sustain yourself and your child. Lack of calories will also result in mood swings, crankiness and irritability.

6. Protein and vitamins

Take more protein, fiber and vitamins. Eat a big serving of fruits and vegetables – at least 5 portions a day. You can munch on an apple in the morning and have another one at noon. You can also have some carrots and watermelons after lunch. In between your meals you can have some pineapples and oranges, as they are rich with vitamins C. Eat some papayas in the evening for extra fiber to help with your bowels.

7. Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial. According to Sheah Rarback - director of nutrition at the Mailman Center for Child Development at the University of Miami School of Medicine – lack of sleep can upset your metabolism rate and make it harder to lose your pregnancy weight. Take a nap every time your baby take his/hers. That way, you will be able to keep your energy high and keep your unhealthy cravings away.

8. Drink plenty of water

It’s important to drink more than 12 glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration. Replace your coke, juices and other sugary beverages with plain water and you will see your weight drop in no time.

9.Keep yourself active

Get up and walk. Don’t just sit around all day. Do some gardening, cleaning or any physical activity if working out is not your cup of tea. You will lose some pounds just by staying active.

10. Join other new mums for some activities

Join other new mums and host some activities together such as organizing a play date, throwing some events for the neighbourhood community or even do physical exercises together. As long as you stay active and consume a healthy diet everyday, you’ll lose the extra weight in no time. All the best !

Written by

Roshni Mahtani

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