Have you been struggling to shed those pesky “baby pounds” after giving birth? You’re not alone. Lose weight after pregnancy can be a real challenge, but it’s crucial for your long-term health. What if there were simple, proven strategies to help you lose the weight safely and effectively? In this article, we’ll explore the keys to shedding pregnancy pounds and getting back to your pre-baby body.

Losing weight after pregnancy can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible. Women who started at a normal weight and gained the recommended 25-35 pounds during pregnancy can typically get back to their pre-pregnancy weight within a couple of months with proper diet and exercise1. However, those who were overweight before pregnancy or gained more than the advised amount may take up to a year to lose the extra pounds, and some baby weight could persist for an extended period1. The good news is that by following a few simple tips, you can safely and effectively lose the “baby weight” and regain your confidence.

Key Takeaways

  • Aim for a gradual, sustainable weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week
  • Incorporate a balanced diet and regular exercise to support your postpartum weight loss goals
  • Breastfeeding can help burn extra calories, but it’s not a guarantee for weight loss
  • Prioritize self-care, including adequate sleep and stress management, to support your journey
  • Seek guidance from a healthcare professional if you’re struggling to lose the baby weight

Understanding Baby Weight

Pregnancy weight gain is a natural and necessary part of the journey to becoming a parent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that women within a healthy weight range who are carrying one baby gain 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy2. This extra weight consists of the baby, placenta, amniotic fluid, breast tissue, blood, uterus enlargement, and additional fat stores3.

What is Baby Weight?

The baby itself contributes about 7 to 8 pounds to the overall pregnancy weight gain, while larger breasts add 1 to 3 pounds, and the larger uterus adds around 2 pounds3. The placenta weighs approximately 1.5 pounds, and the amniotic fluid contributes about 2 pounds3. Increased blood volume accounts for 3 to 4 pounds, and additional fluid volume adds 2 to 3 pounds3. The remaining 6 to 8 pounds are attributed to fat stores, which serve as an energy reserve for birth and breastfeeding3.

Consequences of Excess Weight After Pregnancy

However, when women gain more than the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy, it can lead to excessive fat accumulation, commonly referred to as “baby weight.”2 Nearly half of all pregnant women gain more than the recommended amount of weight, which can increase the risk of being overweight, developing diabetes and heart disease, and experiencing complications during future pregnancies2.

The CDC reports that most women lose about half of their baby weight by 6 weeks after childbirth, with the remaining weight typically coming off over the next several months4. However, in a 2015 study, 75 percent of women were heavier one year after giving birth than before pregnancy, and 47 percent were at least 10 pounds heavier at the 1-year mark, with 25 percent retaining an extra 20 pounds2. Excess weight gained during pregnancy can have lasting consequences, making it essential for new mothers to prioritize healthy postpartum weight loss strategies.

Realistic Goal Setting for Postpartum Weight Loss

Setting realistic goals is crucial when it comes to shedding the pounds after pregnancy5. Despite what celebrity stories might suggest, losing weight after pregnancy takes time. According to research, 75% of women were heavier 1 year after giving birth than they had been before pregnancy, with 47% at least 10 pounds heavier and 25% 20 pounds heavier5.

Depending on how much weight you gained during pregnancy, it is realistic to expect that over the next 1 to 2 years you could lose around 10 pounds5. With a good eating plan and exercise, you should be able to achieve any healthy level of weight loss that your doctor recommends5.

It’s important to remember that the journey to postpartum weight loss is a gradual process6. Immediate post-birth weight loss can amount to around 10-12 pounds, including baby weight, placenta, and amniotic fluid loss6. Postpartum weight loss typically occurs at a rate of 1-2 pounds per week6. Weight loss after pregnancy can take several months to a year to reach pre-pregnancy weight, depending on individual circumstances6.

To support your postpartum weight loss goals, focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes7. Engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and stay hydrated7. Breastfeeding can also be a helpful tool, as it burns an average of 500 additional calories per day7.

Remember, postpartum weight loss is a unique journey for every woman. Be patient, celebrate small victories, and seek support from your healthcare team if needed6. Consistency and a focus on overall well-being, rather than just the number on the scale, will be key to achieving your postpartum weight loss goals6.

“Postpartum weight loss is a gradual process that requires focusing on overall well-being rather than just the number on the scale.”

Avoid Crash Diets and Focus on Nutrition

As a new mother, it’s important to avoid crash diets and instead focus on a balanced, nutrient-rich postpartum diet. Crash diets, which are extremely low in calories, can deprive your body of the essential nutrients it needs to heal, recover, and provide adequate nourishment for your breastfeeding baby8. Instead, aim to decrease your calorie intake by a moderate 500 calories per day, which can lead to a safe and sustainable weight loss of about 1.1 pounds per week8.

Benefits of Breastfeeding for Weight Loss

Breastfeeding can be a powerful ally in your postpartum weight loss journey. Not only does it provide essential nutrition for your baby, but it also burns extra calories, contributing to gradual weight loss8910. The World Health Organization, American Academy of Pediatrics, and CDC all recommend breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life or longer, as it offers numerous benefits for both you and your baby8.

It’s important to note that hormonal shifts postpartum can impact mood, trigger postpartum depression, and affect weight loss efforts8. Additionally, issues like diastasis recti, increased breast size, and water retention can all influence the postpartum weight loss process8. By focusing on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet and incorporating breastfeeding, you can support your body’s natural healing and weight loss capabilities.

“Breastfeeding can burn up to 500 calories per day, making it a valuable tool for postpartum weight loss.”

To ensure a safe and effective postpartum weight loss journey, it’s crucial to avoid crash diets and instead prioritize a healthy, balanced diet that supports your body’s needs. By embracing the benefits of breastfeeding and focusing on gradual, sustainable changes, you can achieve your weight loss goals while also supporting your overall health and well-being8910.

Monitor Your Calorie Intake

Closely monitoring your calorie intake can be a game-changer when it comes to losing weight after pregnancy. By keeping track of the calories you consume, you can gain valuable insights into your eating habits and make informed decisions to support your weight loss goals11.

One effective approach is to maintain a food diary, where you meticulously record everything you eat and drink throughout the day. This simple habit can help you become more mindful of your portion sizes and identify areas where you can cut back on calorie-dense foods11. Alternatively, you can utilize food tracking apps that make the process even easier, with features like barcode scanning and calorie calculations at your fingertips11.

Remember, portion control is crucial during this time12. Sharing your daily calorie intake with a trusted friend or family member can also hold you accountable and provide an extra layer of support11. By being vigilant about your calorie consumption, you can strike the right balance between nourishing your body and promoting healthy weight loss11.

Monitoring your calorie intake is a valuable tool in the journey towards postpartum weight loss11. By adopting these strategies, you can gain a deeper understanding of your eating habits and make informed choices that support your overall health and well-being11.

Technique Benefits
Food Diary Increased awareness of portion sizes and food choices
Calorie Tracking App Convenient and automated calorie calculation
Sharing with a Friend Accountability and additional support

By incorporating these strategies into your postpartum weight management plan, you can effectively monitor your calorie intake and take the necessary steps to achieve your weight loss goals11.

Increase Fiber Intake for Satiety

Incorporating more high-fiber foods into your diet can be a game-changer when it comes to shedding those extra pounds after pregnancy. Fiber plays a vital role in promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight by slowing down digestion, reducing hunger hormone levels, and keeping you feeling fuller for longer13.

Unfortunately, the majority of the U.S. population, a staggering 95%, is not consuming enough fiber13. The recommended daily fiber intake for people assigned female at birth is 25 grams, while for those assigned male at birth, it’s 38 grams, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ dietary guidelines13. Increasing your fiber intake can not only aid in weight loss but also reduce the risk of developing prediabetes or diabetes13.

One easy way to boost your fiber intake is by swapping higher-calorie foods for lower-calorie, fiber-rich alternatives. For instance, 100 grams of cauliflower rice contains just 24 calories, compared to 122 calories in 100 grams of cooked brown rice13. Research has shown that incorporating more high-fiber, low-calorie foods into your diet can aid in weight loss, emphasizing the importance of dietary fiber for weight management13.

  • Vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, and Brussels sprouts, are excellent sources of fiber.
  • Fruits like berries, pears, and apples are also high in fiber.
  • Whole grains, such as quinoa, oats, and brown rice, provide a satisfying dose of fiber.
  • Legumes, nuts, and seeds are other fiber-rich options to incorporate into your meals.

In addition to the fiber content, these foods also offer other beneficial nutrients. For example, turkey meat is a good source of selenium, a vital nutrient that contributes to metabolic health by supporting thyroid function and influencing metabolic rate13. Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, contain beta-carotene, which acts as an antioxidant when converted to vitamin A, helping to combat inflammation in the body13.

One simple way to increase your fiber intake is by introducing fiber-rich sheet pan meals, such as turkey meatballs and roasted vegetables13. Dietary fiber also acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria and supporting overall digestive health13.

Remember, a high-fiber, low-fat diet not only predicts long-term weight loss but also decreases the risk of type 2 diabetes14. Incorporating more high-fiber foods into your daily routine can be a sustainable and effective strategy for shedding those extra pounds after pregnancy and maintaining a healthy weight131415.

“Fiber is essential for weight management, as it helps to slow down digestion and reduce hunger hormone levels, leading to a decreased calorie intake.”

Food Fiber Content (per 100g) Calorie Content (per 100g)
Cauliflower Rice 2.5g 24 calories
Cooked Brown Rice 3.2g 122 calories
Broccoli 2.6g 34 calories
Lentils 7.9g 116 calories
Raspberries 6.5g 52 calories

Incorporate Healthy Proteins

Incorporating high-protein foods into your diet can be a game-changer when it comes to postpartum weight loss. Protein has a higher “thermic” effect than other nutrients, meaning your body uses more energy to digest it, resulting in more calories burned16. Protein can also help suppress appetite by increasing the production of the fullness hormones GLP and GLP-1, while reducing the hunger hormone ghrelin16.

When it comes to the best protein sources for new moms, lean meats, eggs, low-mercury fish, legumes, nuts, seeds, and dairy products are all excellent choices. These nutrient-dense foods not only support weight management but also provide essential vitamins and minerals necessary for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding.

  • Lean Meats: Chicken, turkey, and lean cuts of beef or pork
  • Eggs: A versatile and affordable protein source
  • Low-Mercury Fish: Salmon, trout, sardines, and tuna
  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and edamame
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds
  • Dairy Products: Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and low-fat milk

Incorporating these high-protein foods into your meals and snacks can help boost your metabolism, reduce cravings, and support overall weight management during the postpartum period1617.

Protein Source Protein Content (per serving)
Chicken Breast (3.5 oz) 31 grams
Eggs (1 large) 6 grams
Salmon (3.5 oz) 22 grams
Lentils (1 cup cooked) 18 grams
Almonds (1 oz) 6 grams
Greek Yogurt (6 oz) 17 grams

Incorporating a high-protein diet can be an effective strategy for new moms looking to lose weight in a healthy and sustainable way1617. By choosing nutrient-dense protein sources and incorporating them into your daily meals and snacks, you can support your weight management goals while also nourishing your body during the postpartum period.

Keep Healthy Snacks Handy

Maintaining a healthy postpartum diet can be challenging, especially when cravings strike. However, by keeping nutritious snacks within reach, you can easily satisfy those urges and support your weight loss goals. Healthy snack ideas for postpartum include cut vegetables with hummus, mixed nuts and dried fruit, Greek yogurt with homemade granola, air-popped popcorn, string cheese, and seaweed snacks18. These portable protein-rich snacks can help you stay energized and nourished throughout the day.

Studies have shown that keeping nutritious foods accessible can significantly impact your dietary choices18. In fact, research indicates that having fruit readily available on the counter is associated with a lower body mass index, while the presence of unhealthy foods is linked to increased weight18. By keeping healthy snacks handy, you can make nutritious choices and support your postpartum weight loss journey.

Nutrient-Dense Snacks Nutritional Benefits
Greek yogurt High in protein, probiotics, and calcium
Nuts and nut butters Rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals
Edamame Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins
Hummus and veggies Fiber, protein, and antioxidants from the vegetables
Hard-boiled eggs High in protein, choline, and essential nutrients

By keeping healthy snacks handy, you can ensure you have a nutritious alternative when the urge to snack strikes. Incorporate a variety of healthy snack ideas for postpartum into your daily routine to support your postpartum weight loss goals and overall well-being1920.

Reduce Added Sugar and Refined Carbs

When it comes to losing weight after pregnancy, reducing your intake of added sugars and refined carbohydrates is crucial. These nutrient-poor ingredients are high in calories and have been linked to a range of health issues, including weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease21. In fact, added sugars should make up less than 10% of a healthy daily diet, with some experts recommending even less: 9 teaspoons (38 grams) per day for men and 6 teaspoons (25 grams) for women21.

One of the biggest culprits of added sugars is sugary drinks, such as soda. A single 12-ounce can of soda contains about 39 grams (approximately 9 teaspoons) of sugar, close to a day’s worth of added sugars21. Additionally, processed foods are often loaded with hidden added sugars, with about three-quarters of all prepackaged foods at grocery stores containing these sweeteners21. Be sure to read nutrition labels carefully and watch out for the more than 50 different names used for added sugars, including high-fructose corn syrup, raw sugar, dextrose, agave, and coconut palm sugar21.

To reduce your intake of added sugars and refined carbs, focus on whole, unprocessed foods such as vegetables, legumes, fruits, meats, fish, eggs, nuts, and yogurt21. These nutrient-dense options not only provide sustained energy but can also help prevent tooth decay, cavities, and infections caused by bacteria in the mouth21. Additionally, people with higher added sugar intake are more likely to have conditions like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver disease21.

By making the switch to a low-sugar diet for weight loss and avoiding refined carbs after pregnancy, you can set yourself up for a healthier, more sustainable journey to your postpartum goals. The FDA now requires nutrition labels to specify the amount of added sugars in products, making it easier for consumers to track their intake and make informed choices21.

Remember, a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, combined with regular physical activity, is the key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight after pregnancy. By reducing your intake of added sugars and refined carbs, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and sustainable postpartum weight loss journey22.

Carbohydrate Source Weight Change per 100g/day Increase
Starch or Added Sugar 1.5 kg greater weight gain
Fiber 0.8 kg less weight gain
Whole Grains 0.4 kg less weight gain
Fruit 1.6 kg less weight gain
Non-Starchy Vegetables 3.0 kg less weight gain
Refined Grains 0.8 kg more weight gain
Starchy Vegetables 2.6 kg more weight gain

The data shows that replacing refined carbs, starchy veggies, and sugary drinks with whole grains, fruits, and non-starchy vegetables can lead to less weight gain, especially for those with overweight or obesity23. This is particularly true for women, as the associations between carbohydrate intake and weight changes are stronger among them23.

“Cutting back on added sugars and refined carbs is a game-changer when it comes to postpartum weight loss. These nutrient-poor ingredients are linked to a host of health issues and can derail your weight loss efforts. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods for a sustainable, healthy approach.”

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Limit Highly Processed Foods

When embarking on your postpartum weight loss journey, it’s crucial to limit your intake of highly processed foods. These foods, which include fast foods, prepackaged snacks, chips, cookies, baked goods, candy, ready meals, and processed cheeses, are often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, salt, and calories24. Consuming such processed items can counteract your efforts to lose the baby weight and negatively impact your overall health.

Instead, focus on whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in nutrients and fiber. These natural, minimally processed options can better support your weight loss goals and provide your body with the nourishment it needs during this transitional period25. By transitioning to a diet centered around whole foods, you’ll not only shed the excess pounds but also enjoy the many benefits of a minimally processed diet, such as improved digestion, increased energy, and better overall well-being.

  • Avoid fast foods, prepackaged snacks, and processed baked goods.
  • Choose whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
  • Limit your intake of processed cheeses, candies, and other highly processed items.
  • Read nutrition labels carefully and opt for products with fewer, more recognizable ingredients.

Embracing a diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods can be a game-changer in your postpartum weight loss journey26. By making this simple but impactful change, you’ll nourish your body, support your overall health, and set the stage for sustainable weight loss in the months following your pregnancy.

“Focusing on whole, unprocessed foods is one of the most effective ways to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, especially after pregnancy.”

Prioritize Adequate Sleep

As a new mom, getting enough sleep may seem like an unattainable luxury. However, prioritizing sleep is crucial for your postpartum weight loss journey. Studies have shown that new moms who slept five hours or less per night were more likely to hold onto their extra pregnancy weight than women who slept seven hours27. Lack of sleep can lead to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can promote weight gain28. It can also make you less likely to choose healthy foods or find the energy for physical activity.

To ensure you’re getting the rest you need, try to catch naps when your baby sleeps and go to bed early. Establishing a consistent sleep routine can be challenging, but it’s essential for your overall health and weight loss goals29. Sharing child night duty with a partner or family member in the postpartum period can help prevent or recover from depression29. Prioritizing sleep consolidation by sacrificing other tasks can be beneficial for your postpartum mental health29.

  • Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, if possible.
  • Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
  • Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath.
  • Limit screen time and exposure to blue light before bed, as it can disrupt your sleep.
  • Consider using a white noise machine or earplugs to block out disruptive sounds.

Remember, your body has been through a significant change, and it’s essential to give it the rest it needs to recover and support your weight loss goals27. Establishing good health habits during pregnancy can impact future generations positively, guiding them towards a healthy and bright future27.

By prioritizing your sleep, you’ll be better equipped to make healthy choices, maintain your energy levels, and achieve your postpartum weight loss goals28. Postpartum weight change can be influenced by sleep duration, particularly in black and Hispanic women28.

weight loss after pregnancy

Shedding the extra pounds gained during pregnancy can be a daunting task, but it’s important to approach it with patience and a focus on sustainable changes. Losing weight after having a baby is a gradual process that should not be rushed30. It’s best to aim for a slow, steady weight loss of about 1 pound per week through a combination of reduced calorie intake and increased physical activity30.

The postpartum weight loss timeline can vary, but it’s important to be realistic31. Most women need about 6 weeks to lose half of their baby weight, followed by a slower rate over the next 6-12 months to shed the rest31. It’s not uncommon for it to take 6 months to a year or more to return to your pre-pregnancy weight, depending on how much you gained during pregnancy30.

A healthy approach to shedding pregnancy pounds involves making sustainable changes to your eating and exercise habits32. The most effective method is a combination of dietary changes and exercise, which can help you lose the most weight post-pregnancy32. Avoid crash diets and instead focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, monounsaturated fats, and whole grains to promote healthy weight loss30.

Breastfeeding can also be a helpful tool for weight loss, as it requires an additional 300 to 500 calories per day to support energy and milk production30. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs and not restricting your calorie intake too much while breastfeeding.

Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can also accelerate your postpartum weight loss journey30. Light exercise can commence within days of delivery for individuals with uncomplicated pregnancies, while those who had C-sections or complicated births should consult with a healthcare provider about when to start an exercise program30. Start slowly with exercises that strengthen major muscle groups and gradually incorporate more intense activities like brisk walking or biking on level surfaces.

Ultimately, losing weight after having a baby requires patience, a healthy approach, and a combination of balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. By focusing on sustainable changes and avoiding crash diets, you can achieve your postpartum weight loss goals and regain your pre-pregnancy shape in a safe and effective manner303132.

Seek Professional Guidance if Needed

As you embark on your postpartum weight loss journey, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate this path alone. If you’re struggling to lose the baby weight, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of your healthcare team, including your doctor and a registered dietitian33.

Your doctor can provide valuable guidance on how much weight you need to lose and when it’s safe to start incorporating exercise into your routine33. A registered dietitian can work with you to create a personalized eating plan that will help you lose weight safely and effectively, ensuring you get the necessary nutrients while also creating a calorie deficit33.

Working with a Dietitian and Doctor

Collaborating with a dietitian and your doctor can set you up for long-term success in your postpartum weight loss journey. These healthcare professionals can help you develop a sustainable, healthy approach to losing the baby weight, one that takes into account your unique needs and challenges.

  • Your doctor can assess your overall health, provide guidance on safe exercise levels, and monitor your progress to ensure you’re losing weight at a healthy pace33.
  • A dietitian can help you create a balanced, nutrient-dense meal plan that supports both your weight loss goals and your body’s recovery from pregnancy and childbirth33.
  • Together, your doctor and dietitian can help you overcome any obstacles you may face, such as hormonal fluctuations34, sleep deprivation34, or emotional challenges34, ensuring you stay on track and reach your postpartum weight loss goals.

Remember, postpartum weight loss is a journey, not a race. By working closely with your healthcare team, you can lose the weight in a healthy, sustainable manner and set yourself up for long-term success35.

“The key to postpartum weight loss is to be patient, listen to your body, and focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes, not quick fixes. Your healthcare team can be invaluable in guiding you through this process.”

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Conclusion

Losing weight after pregnancy is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a focus on sustainable lifestyle changes rather than crash diets. By setting realistic goals, avoiding restrictive eating, monitoring your calorie intake, increasing fiber and protein, limiting processed foods, and prioritizing sleep, you can safely and effectively shed the “baby weight” and get back to your pre-pregnancy weight over time36.

The research highlights the importance of factors like race, diabetes, and cesarean delivery in influencing postpartum weight loss36. Additionally, studies have shown significant variability in weight change, with some women experiencing substantial weight loss while others struggle with postpartum weight retention37. Successful weight loss strategies often involve a combination of dietary, physical activity, and behavioral interventions37.

Ultimately, if you need additional support, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor and a registered dietitian. With the right approach, you can reclaim your health and feel confident in your postpartum body. By summarizing the key strategies for healthy weight loss after pregnancy and reflecting on the final thoughts, this article provides a comprehensive guide to help you achieve your goals and embrace your postpartum journey38.

FAQ

What is the recommended weight gain during pregnancy?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women within a healthy weight range who are carrying one baby should gain 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy.

What are the consequences of excess weight gain during pregnancy?

Excess weight gain during pregnancy can increase the risk of being overweight, developing diabetes and heart disease, and experiencing complications during future pregnancies.

How long does it typically take to lose the “baby weight”?

Depending on how much weight was gained during pregnancy, it is realistic to expect that over the next 1 to 2 years, you could lose around 10 pounds with a good eating plan and exercise.

Why should new mothers avoid crash diets?

Crash diets are not suitable for new mothers, as your body needs good nutrition to heal and recover, especially if you are breastfeeding.

How can breastfeeding support postpartum weight loss?

Breastfeeding can support postpartum weight loss, as it provides nutrition for your baby while burning extra calories.

How can monitoring calorie intake help with weight loss?

Techniques like keeping a food diary, taking photos of your meals, using a calorie tracking app, or sharing your daily intake with a friend can help you become more aware of your portion sizes and food choices, allowing you to make adjustments to reduce your calorie intake and promote healthy weight loss.

What are the benefits of increasing fiber intake for weight loss?

Fiber can slow down digestion and reduce hunger hormone levels, which may help reduce calorie intake. A 2019 study found that an increase of 4 grams of fiber over participants’ previous intake led to an average additional weight loss of 3 1/4 pounds over 6 months.

How can protein help with weight loss?

Protein has a higher “thermic” effect than other nutrients, meaning the body uses more energy to digest it, resulting in more calories burned. Protein can also suppress appetite by increasing the fullness hormones GLP and GLP-1 and reducing the hunger hormone ghrelin.

How can keeping healthy snacks readily available support weight loss?

Research shows that keeping fruit out on the counter is associated with a lower body mass index, while having unhealthy foods readily available is linked to increased weight. Recommended healthy snacks include cut vegetables and hummus, mixed nuts and dried fruit, Greek yogurt and homemade granola, air-popped popcorn, string cheese, and seaweed snacks.

Why should new mothers limit added sugars and refined carbohydrates?

Added sugars and refined carbohydrates are high in calories and low in nutrients, and research associates their high intake with weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues.

How can lack of sleep impact postpartum weight loss?

Studies have shown that new moms who slept five hours or less per night were more likely to hold onto their extra pregnancy weight than women who slept seven hours. Lack of sleep can lead to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can promote weight gain, and can also make you less likely to choose healthy foods or find the energy for physical activity.

When should new mothers seek professional guidance for weight loss?

If you’re struggling to lose the baby weight, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of your doctor and a registered dietitian. They can provide guidance on healthy weight loss, ensure you’re getting the necessary nutrients, and help you design a personalized plan that will allow you to lose weight safely and effectively.

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  18. Easy, Nutritious Postpartum Snack Ideas for New Moms
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  21. What Happens When You Cut Out Added Sugar?
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  26. Weight Loss in Lactation | InfantRisk Center
  27. Prioritizing health before, during and after pregnancy | Parkview Health
  28. Determinants of postpartum sleep duration and sleep efficiency in minority women
  29. Sleep can help new moms avoid depression. Partners need to do more.
  30. Women’s Wellness: Breastfeeding and weight loss – Mayo Clinic News Network
  31. Losing the Baby Weight: 7 Diet Mistakes After Pregnancy
  32. Pregnancy and birth: What helps women lose weight again after having a baby? – InformedHealth.org
  33. Postpartum exercise: How to get started
  34. How to Get Past the Postpartum Weight Loss Plateau
  35. How to Lose Weight While Breastfeeding: Tips and More
  36. Changes in maternal weight 5–10 years after a first delivery
  37. Predictors of Postpartum Weight Change Among Overweight and Obese Women: Results from the Active Mothers Postpartum Study
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