After having a baby, it can be hard to adjust to your new figure. Many new mothers are tempted to crash diet in an effort to get their pre-pregnancy body back.
The thing is that your body has done this amazing thing- it’s created life- and will never be the same as it was before baby.
Your body needs time to heal
The average pregnancy weight gain can range between a 1 1/2- 2 1/2 stones. Around 12 pounds will be lost during delivery with the majority of the remaining weight coming off whilst caring for your newborn.
Two months after birth, your uterus is still shrinking back to it’s original size. You should concentrate on eating well and- if breastfeeding- making sure you’re getting plenty of calories and nutrients in your meals.
Ultimately, your body needs to recover from labour. There should be zero pressure to lose weight.
You need as much energy as possible
Looking after a newborn is hard work! Your body needs energy to keep you going with the night feeds and endless nappy changes.
Though the likes of Kim Kardashian appeared to snap into shape through cutting out carbohydrates and cutting down on fats, in reality this is dangerous and completely unideal (celebs have a whole team of people to help them get their bodies back!).
Your body has changed- embrace it
Having a baby is possibly one of the toughest things your body can go through- give yourself a break! You have a new figure so why not have fun with it. See it as an opportunity to treat yourself to a new wardrobe.
Book an appointment with a personal shopper. They’ll help you come to terms with your body changes and give you pointers on how to dress your new shape AND feel fabulous.
You might be healthier at your post-baby weight
If you struggled with fertility before falling pregnant then you may have been advised to watch your diet. Many women with fertility struggles report losing weight in a mission to get pregnant.
Giovanna Falcone recently told Closer Online that she was a stone lighter than her usual weight before conceiving son Buzz and actually felt better at her post-baby size.
You shouldn’t rush back to the gym
In the weeks following on from giving birth you should take a break from the gym. Your body has been working hard enough, why put it through unnecessary trauma?!
Instead, of for short walks with your little one to ease you back into keeping fit. Your priority is your baby, not your bingo wings!
If you’re planning children close together in age, why stress over your weight?
If you’re planning on getting pregnant again within a few years of having your first child, why worry about getting your body back? Instead, focus on being fit and healthy.
Also... Avoid eating for two!
Though pregnancy is definitely a time to ease up strict diets and eating regimes, it’s also important not to eat too much.
Being overweight during and before pregnancy can also have serious health implications. You are more susceptible to gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and preeclampsia, all potentially harmful conditions for you and your baby.
The trick is to eat a healthy, balanced diet and listen to your body. Don’t deny yourself, but at the same time don’t go overboard on the sweets and chocolates!