The Best Ways to Lose Weight After Pregnancy

Pre-pregnancy weight and physical fitness play a role in how long it takes to achieve a healthy post pregnancy weight. Women that were physically fit before pregnancy will snap back into shape easier than those who struggled with weight prior to pregnancy. Most women, no matter what size, can lose the weight but it takes time and commitment.

Exercise with Baby

Exercise is an important part of post pregnancy weight loss but a new mom's schedule is a full one. Try exercising with the baby. Get out the stroller and parade the beautiful new life around the neighborhood. The fresh air will be good for the baby and the walking will help put the new mom back in skinny jeans. On rainy days try picking up the new baby and walking up and down the stairs for exercise.
Be careful with exercise. Know the body's limits and respect them. No woman should leave the hospital after giving birth and start running marathons or doing sit ups. Follow the doctor's recommendations for activity levels.
Crunches are one way to drop unwanted belly fat. Try 10 minutes of stomach crunches a day for a good start. Do not do crunches until the 6 week postpartum checkup is complete and the doctor gives the go-ahead.

Eating for Two

It is not an easy task to go from eating for two to eating for one again. The pregnant body needs extra nutrition but once the pregnancy ends it is time to return to smaller portions of favorite foods. Depriving one's self of all junk food is a big commitment and can be discouraging; instead, limit junk food to very small portions as a treat once or twice a week. This satisfies cravings without undoing weight loss goals.
No one needs energy more than a new mom. Keep snacks on hand that boost energy while satisfying hunger. Fruit is a wise choice; it contains natural fruit sugars that provide a quick energy boost. Keep apples, pears, oranges and other favorites on hand. Fresh vegetables also satisfy the snacking urge without sacrificing nutrition.

Attitude

New moms dedicate their bodies to their child's health for nine months. It is easy to understand why they would be anxious to return to looking like themselves.
Be patient. Pregnancy weight is not gained overnight nor will it disappear that quickly. It takes time and nursing mothers especially should not rush the weight loss process. Healthy weight loss is slow and steady.