Losing the Baby Weight

Average pregnancy weight gain is
between 25 and 35 pounds, however that number depends upon several
factors such as the baby's weight and the number of babies in utero. Women who typically have 10 pounds babies will likely gain more weight. Multiples, twins and triplets or more, will result in additional weight gain as well. No matter how healthy the woman has been eating, there will be at least a few pounds left over after the baby is born. Though women may want to try and lose that weight immediately after giving birth, losing weight should not be a goal of any new mother until at least six weeks after the baby is born.

Exercise and Weight Loss After Baby
Exercise is allowed for most women throughout the pregnancy. Women who exercise during pregnancy have an easier time losing weight after baby is born. There is nothing wrong with walking daily from the first day after birth, but the woman should not try to burn calories until her body has healed.

Dieting and Breast Milk
Producing breast milk requires 500 to 600 calories every day. If breast feeding, the woman will need to assure she is eating at least that many calories in excess of her basal metabolic rate. If she stays around 2100 to 2200 calories a day, she should be fine. Cutting back calories too early can result in milk ducts drying up and the baby having to switch to infant formula.

Helpful Tips for Easier Weight Loss
During the first weeks after birth, the woman should try eating more fruits and vegetables. Women may have reduced hunger for a few weeks after giving birth, so take advantage of this time to learn new and healthier eating habits. Women should also drink at least eight 8 ounce glasses of water every day. When breastfeeding, this number should be the bare minimum.

Best Postpartum Exercises
The best postpartum exercise is walking. Walking is easy on the body and costs nothing. If the woman feels up to it, she can choose to walk pushing the stroller or take a bit of time to herself and walk alone when her partner comes home.