Having a baby brings a period of joy and love. Watching them grow, learning and developing, is one of the greatest gifts that life can offer. But it also profoundly changes your body. The miracle of childbirth can sometimes come at the expense of your own physical health, with some women finding it difficult to bounce back to their pre-pregnancy weight. Losing baby weight can be tough, especially if it has been two or more years since your last pregnancy. Luckily, it is still possible to return to your former figure. Read this article to learn more about how to shed that baby weight even after two years.
Set Realistic Goals
The key to any successful weight loss plan is to set realistic goals. Set goals that take into account any lingering health issues related to the pregnancy, like thyroid problems or anemia. Doing so will make the weight loss journey much smoother. Once you have identified what is realistic, create a well-rounded plan that includes healthy diet and exercise. You will also need to allot yourself time for rest and recovery from the stresses of being a new Mom, or simply adjust your expectations accordingly.
Making Room in Your Schedule for Fitness
Realizing that you are now a Mom and your time is valuable, look for at-home fitness options that do not require expensive gym memberships. Exercise DVDs, online courses, or even streaming fitness apps are all viable options depending on your particular tastes. Take into account your age, weight, fitness level and any pre-existing conditions when choosing a routine. Try to keep workouts short and sweet – no more than 30 minutes – as this will help to maximize the effectiveness of the program. As you progress, you can gradually increase the intensity of your workouts.
Healthy Diet & Hydration Habits
One of the most important parts of getting back to your pre-baby body is maintaining a healthy and nutritional diet. Try to focus on the major food groups like proteins and healthy fats. Include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Eating a balanced diet will ensure you are getting all the nutrients and vitamins you need for proper weight loss. Of course, it’s also important to stay hydrated throughout the day to support your metabolism.
Keeping Positive and Exploring Treatment Options
Any time you are dealing with something as challenging as post-partum weight loss, it is important to keep a positive attitude. Negative thoughts can easily derail your plans, so make sure to check in with yourself constantly. Additionally, it may be helpful to explore different treatment options that can help expedite results. This can include seeing a nutritionist or doctor for advice, or you could consider non-invasive treatments therapies like Coolsculpting to help sculpt your body.
The Benefits of Post-Pregnancy Exercise
Physical exercise is one of the most important aspects of post-pregnancy weight loss. Exercise helps to build muscle and reduce fat, which can lead to a healthier overall physique. It also helps to boost energy, improve body confidence and supports a healthier lifestyle. Plus, exercising with your baby is a great way to bond and get some much-needed fresh air in the great outdoors.
Seeing Results vs. Weight Loss
Sometimes, the scale can bring on negative thoughts. You could be doing all the wrong things and still not see the weight loss you are hoping for. Instead, focus on the results you do see as you take part in your diet and exercise plan. See which types of exercise make you feel the strongest and strive for that achievement. Pay attention to your pant size, the way your clothes fit or if you have more energy. This way, the weight loss journey won’t seem like such a slog.
What to Do When You Hit a Plateau
Your body will adapt to different exercises and foods over time, and you may notice that you hit a weight loss plateau in the process. This can be frustrating but it doesn’t mean it’s time to give up. You may just need to make some slight adjustments to your nutritional intake or exercise routine. Or, if that doesn’t help you can switch up your current workout to something less intense with more strength training. This can help jump start your body and help you lose more weight faster.
Take Control of Your Stress Levels
Stress is one of the most powerful determinants of health, both physical and mental. When you are under a lot of stress, it can make it difficult to lose the weight and keep it off. To combat the effects of stress, make sure that you take part in activities that relax you, such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises. These activities can help you both mentally and physically and make it easier to come back to your weight loss goals.
Start Slowly
Remember, you’re embarking on a post-pregnancy weight loss journey! You won’t see results overnight. Start slow and focus on creating healthy habits for yourself that you can stick with for the long-term. That could mean simple things like getting your fruits and veggies in, or increasing your activity level. Gradually, you’ll begin to notice that you are feeling better and looking better. Celebrate each milestone and understand that, with time and patience, you will eventually reach your post-baby goals.
Conclusion
It can be a process to get back to your pre-baby body, especially when it has been two or more years since your last pregnancy. It’s important to set realistic goals and build a healthy, consistent routine of diet and exercise. Exploring treatment options, staying hydrated and keeping stress levels low can also help to ensure success. Above all, be patient and consistent – the rewards will be worth it in the end.