How to Lose Weight While Breastfeeding

All women will vary in how quickly they lose the weight gained in pregnancy. Breastfeeding mothers will generally find that they are the fastest and most successful to lose their excess weight, this is due to the hormones that are released during breastfeeding, but others will find it slower and more difficult to return to their previous size. It is important to keep your expectations realistic about the speed of your return to your pre pregnancy weight. Don’t think that you will be unable to lose weight while breastfeeding. The facts are that breastfeeding makes it easier to lose the weight gained, because your body uses the stored energy in the fat to make the milk.

1. First of all, remember that you gained all that weight in the course of nine months. Losing all of it within a few weeks is not possible and not at all healthy, for you as well as for the baby.

2. In most of the cases, you can start doing light exercises four to six weeks after birth and by the sixth or seventh week, you can also settle into a workout routine. However, it is better to consult a physician first.

3. While breastfeeding, you should not aim at losing more than one to two pounds a week.

4. Pay attention to the calories you drink. Many women fail to realize how many calories can easily be cut by simply drinking water and eliminating high-calorie drinks.

5. Consider joining a weight loss support group or program. Many weight loss programs, including Weight Watchers, will accept breastfeeding mothers. Joining a group may help you lose weight by providing additional support and encouragement and also by keeping you accountable of your weight loss goals.

6. Remember that you gained weight slowly and you should lose weight slowly. Don’t try to do anything drastic to lose weight faster. Instead, work on establishing healthy eating and fitness habits that will allow you to maintain a healthy rate of weight loss without dieting. Remember it is important to include a variety of foods in your healthy eating plan.