Four Tips for Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy

Still not losing baby weight after pregnancy? Here are some motivational postpartum pointers to get you going.

The frustration might be setting in: After all, you have a five-month-old baby and you still haven't lost all your pregnancy weight. Well, don't give up. Lots of moms take lots of time to lose what they've gained (never mind what brand new celebrity mamas look like), and patience is the key to losing baby weight after pregnancy (yes, even that stubborn belly flab!). Sticking to a diet can be tricky with a baby, but these tips can help you stay on track:

Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy Tip 1: Set Your Sights

If you haven't done so already, set a realistic goal for yourself — say, losing one pound per week. Work toward it by following a sensible weight-loss diet (the Postpartum Diethas all the nutrients you need; add about 300 calories a day if you're nursing), and by exercising regularly. Regular is the operative word here — working out for at least 30 minutes three times a week is essential to losing baby weight after pregnancy (and staying healthy for your little one).

Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy Tip 2: Keep Moving!

Sticking to a diet is much easier if you stay active (and you’re already on the move with everyday baby care!) plus postpartum exercise can boost your metabolism. Find an activity you enjoy — jogging, yoga, cycling, swimming, even walking works — and plan it into your week. You'll get in shape even faster if you squeeze even a little extra activity into your daily routine. For example, leave the car in the garage and take the baby in his stroller for nearby errands. When you do drive, park a bit farther away than usual, and take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever you can. Every step counts toward your ultimate goal of burning more calories than you take in (the only way to shed those stubborn pounds!).

Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy Tip 3: Team Up

When it comes to losing baby weight after pregnancy, you need all the support you can get — so make sure your partner is on board, too. Instead of watching TV, take a walk tonight. And together, make a commitment to sticking to a diet. Start by ridding your fridge and pantry of high-fat foods; then stock up on fruits and veggies, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products and lean meats, poultry, and fish that are good for you (no matter what you weigh). Keep an eye out for each other’s eating habits — no sneaking snacks!

Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy Tip 4: Think Positive

Most importantly, keep a positive attitude about sticking to a diet. Treat yourself to somesmart snacking with healthy on-the-go noshes and focus on what you've accomplished so far (like having a baby and the weight you've already lost). And remember that just because you aren't at your prepregnancy weight yet doesn't mean you can't look fabulous. If your skinny clothes are still too skinny, buy a couple of fun things that you'll enjoy wearing as you make progress towards losing baby weight after pregnancy. A new haircut or makeup can also perk you up as you slim down.

resource: whattoexpect.com