How to Lose Tummy Weight After a C-Section
Weight gain in pregnancy is natural, but it can be hard to shift the excess weight after giving birth. You probably feel tired a lot of the time, and exercising can seem like a chore that you don't have time for. The good news is it can be done, but don't push yourself too hard; it's best to lose weight slowly after giving birth, especially after a C-section. Set yourself realistic goals. It might take six months or more to get back to your normal weight, but don't give up!
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Breastfeed. It's a natural way to lose baby fat. Your body has gained weight partly to be able to feed your baby between 200 and 500 calories each day, so by breastfeeding, you will be losing weight the way nature intended, says pregnancy-info.net.
-
2
Exercise. You may feel too exhausted, but light exercise will actually increase your energy level and improve self-esteem as well as help you shed pounds. Talk to your doctor about how long to wait before starting a regime, and don't push yourself too much. According to pregnancy-info.net, you should wait at least six weeks after a vaginal birth and eight weeks after a C-section before you start exercising.
-
-
3
Take your baby with you. If you don't have time to exercise alone, don't worry. Take your baby for a walk in the park or invest in a jogging stroller and go for a gentle run.
-
4
Meet other moms. You are not the only new mom who wants to lose weight. Invite other mothers to join you, or set up a babysitting circle, so some mothers care for the children while the others exercise.
-
5
Eat well. It may be tempting to gorge on high-calorie snacks throughout the day, but by filling your diet with whole grains, legumes and fresh fruit and vegetables, you will get all the nutrients your body needs to be able to care for your child, while staying full longer.
-
6
Watch your eating habits. If you have been "eating for two," it's time to cut down on your portion sizes. Don't skip meals, though, as it is important to consume nutrients throughout the day.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Keep hydrated by drinking lots of water before, during and after exercising.
Wear a sports bra to protect your breasts.
Exercise immediately after breastfeeding when your breasts are smaller and you are carrying less weight.
Learn how to exercise safely from a qualified instructor to avoid injury.
Don't over-exert yourself. Low-impact exercise is safer than high-impact.
Always warm up and cool down adequately to avoid injury.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit pregnancy image by AGphotographer from Fotolia.com
