>After you’ve had a baby, it can be annoying and discouraging to discover that your body doesn’t bounce right back right away.
But don’t worry–experts say give yourself 9 months (the length of a pregnancy) to get back to your pre-baby figure. They also advise against crash dieting or a strict exercise program — especially if you’ve had a difficult pregnancy or a C-section delivery.
So, here are our 5 hacks to get your pre-baby body back as soon as possible:
- Exercise
First off, it’s important not to start exercising again around until around six weeks, which is typically when doctors give the OK to start an exercise program. Check with your doctor to see what he or she recommends. Exercise is a great way of getting that baby weight off, because it also can increase your energy level and may decrease postpartum depression. And here’s a tip: an easy way to start your postpartum exercise routine is by simply walking. After walking, you can then start doing the exercises you did in your third trimester of pregnancy – and then second, and first, and finally your pre-baby level of exercise. - Watch what you’re eating
While it’s not smart to put yourself on an extreme diet, watching the health value in the foods you eat will really help you lose some weight. Make sure that you eat breakfast and at least five portions of fruits and veggies daily.
Here are some ideas for healthy snacks:- Celery, carrots and peppers with low-fat dressing
- Chicken or egg salad served on whole-grain bread
- Whole-grain cereal with skim milk
- Whole-grain bread with nut butter
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Apples with almond butter
- Fruit smoothies
- Take naps
It’s been proven that getting enough sleep helps with weight loss because you’re not urging to snack on high-calorie, high-sugar foods for energy. Naps will help you in keeping your energy levels up and your snack cravings down. - Get a postpartum recovery belt
Postpartum recovery belts/girdles can go a long way in slimming down your belly post-baby. Most are totally adjustable and they’re lighter weight than a typical girdle, so they’re more comfortable. They can help posture, and help your ab muscles get back after a pregnancy and weight gain. Some pregnant woman who’ve used one say that the belt is comfortable enough to wear all day and sit/stand in. Here’s a postpartum recovery belt that we found on Amazon that stretches to conform to the curves of your body: postpartum recovery belt. - Drink plenty of water
Drinking water improves your metabolism, clears your body of waste, and keeps your appetite in check. Also, it helps your body stop holding onto water, which will help you drop extra pounds of water weight. Drink a glass before you eat – it can make you feel fuller and cut down on your food intake. Give up drinking sodas or juice and instead drink water. If water tastes too bland to you, add a slice of lemon. A glass of water with lemon is great for weight loss, as the pectin in lemons helps reduce food cravings.
Do you have any tips that we didn’t mention? Please share them with others by leaving a comment below!