Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Cons of Fast Weight Loss After Pregnancy

By Ricardo d Argence

One of the first things a new mother worries about is how to get that pregnancy weight off. She doesn't want to look like she's still 4 months pregnant after the baby is born.

Unfortunately our society lauds women who are back to a size 2 within a month of giving birth. But did you ever stop to think that it might not be healthy to lose the weight that quickly? After all, it took you 9 months to put it on, why should it come off in 9 days?

Starvation diets and diet pills are unhealthy ways to go about losing weight. After childbirth, the mind and body can be a hormonal mess. Diet pills, laxatives, or a lack of proper eating will make this worse.

A proper diet is vital for the production of breast milk. A healthy diet is necessary for the production of enogh breast milk. Breastfeeding requires an extra 200-500 calories a day. This is one reason the body stores extra fat during pregnancy. The purpose is to fuel the body for producing breast milk. Breastfeeding may mean eating more calories but at the same time it will allow you to burn 500 calories daily.

You can cause your metabolism to bottom out when you avoid eating. This will cause you to feel sluggish and lethargic. You won't be able to take care of your baby adequately. It is never a good idea to deprive yourself in order to shed pounds.

Most of us can't afford personal trainers, dieticians, personal chefs, or a personal stylist and makeup artist to cover up all our flaws. So, we need to find healthy ways to lose the weight gradually like normal people do.

The average woman gains approximately 25-30 pounds during pregnancy. The birthing process will often get rid of about half of that. The first tip for getting rid of the rest of that baby fat is to eat a healthy diet. This is also vital if you are breastfeeding. A 2000 calorie diet is ideal.

Moderate exercise done carefully and slowly will also regain your pre-baby body. Allow your body time to heal. Having a baby can be very strenuous on the body. You are not helping your body by immediately returning to a heavy duty exercise routine.

Do not follow the celebrity trend of getting back to pre-baby weight more quickly than is healthy for you. I know that can be easier said than done, but think of your child. Being happy and healthy is the best way to be a good mother. If you want to achieve your goals than you had to take care of grudging and diet fads. - 16083

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