Things You'll Need:
- Patience
- Skin firming lotion
- Gym Membership/workout DVDs/Home Gym equipment
- Organic (optional) single-ingredient food
- High protein foods
- Motivation!!!!
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Step 1
Check with your doctor before doing any of these recommended steps. A high-protein diet may not be healthy for some people and can negatively affect certain body functions if taken by some. Consult a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program! Make sure you have the all-clear from the OB-GYN to begin working out. It is dangerous to begin working out too soon after a cesarean, as it can cause tearing at the incision sites.
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Step 2
Try to consume only single-ingredient foods. Do not eat processed food of any kind. If you can do all organic, that's even better. Ideal foods include: Vegetables, Fruit, Eggs, Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, Whole Grains. Do not consume large amounts of carbs, but when you do, aim for whole grain breads and rice instead of white. Do not cut out carbs completely.
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Step 3
Supplement: If possible, take a multivitamin and protein powder daily.
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Step 4
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!!!! With WATER ONLY! If you can't stand regular boring water, flavor it with lemon or lime or mix with protein powder. DO NOT DRINK SODA! Soda is the worst thing you can drink (diet soda included, sorry). If you really get bored with water, drink herbal tea, but never drink soda and stay away from juices. They are usually very high in sugar.
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Step 5
Cardio...and lots of it. It doesn't matter which type of cardio you choose, as long as your heart is pumping and you're huffing and puffing for at least 30 minutes daily, but 45 is preferable. Walk, run, jump rope, jump on a trampoline, ride a bike, use the elliptical machine, etc...just get moving!
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Step 6
Pilates, I've found, is the best way to get abs back in shape very quickly, especially after your abdominal muscles have been put through so much lately (with getting cut and all that). Take it easy, and start slowly. If you're taking a class, explain your situation to the instructor so she/he can offer you modifications. If you're using a DVD, try to choose one with more than one level, so you can start off as a beginner. Even if you were previously experienced with pilates, start at the beginner level, anyway. Your lower abs are very weak after surgery.
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Step 7
If you have loose skin: Drink even MORE water to help return elasticity and help it out further with Q10 or cellulite cream specifically created to target the belly. Nivea Q10 is very good.
