Getting back into shape after having a baby is possible. If you’re wondering whether your body will ever return to normal, take a look around you at all the other mums that have managed it. Your body will do a lot of the restoration itself. However, you’re also going to need to put in a little extra work and effort if you want a postpartum body to die for. Before you take any drastic measures it’s a good idea to get yourself checked out by your doctor or seek private health care from Guy's and St Thomas. Once you’ve got the all clear you can get things underway with the following tips.
Try to do Things as Naturally as Possible
It is possible to regain some of your figure naturally, although you will need to be patient as it won’t happen overnight. Your body will have undergone a lot of changes in the last nine months, and it will take a while for it to recover. Your uterus, for example, takes around six to eight weeks to get back to normal, and it takes more than a month to rid your body of the excess water. Try and get into a sleep routine with your baby and develop a regular sleeping habit, so you’re not so tired and tempted to reach for high sugar and high calorific snacks when you need an energy boost.
Exercise Whenever Possible
Exercising may be the last thing on your mind after having a baby, but don’t be ashamed or embarrassed about it. Your body’s not going to be ready for serious exercise anyway until at least six weeks after giving birth. One thing to note is that incontinence after birth can occur due to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. Start slow, therefore, with pelvic floor exercises. These are vital but do not panic if you find that you need to rely on incontinence underwear. Adult underwear is nothing to be embarrassed about, and with adult pull-ups readily available, you can find the best pullups for you in the days following the birth if this is something you require.
Eat Healthy, Well-Balanced Meals
There is a secret formula, and it’s one that will see you through the rest of your life if you want it to. You should eat well-balanced meals that include protein, carbohydrates and a little-unsaturated fat. It should include vegetables, fruit, and whole-grain products. Keep sweet and salty snacks to a minimum and avoid eating large amounts of cheese and fat-marbled meats. While eating healthy foods is one of the best way to keep you from getting sick or illness, another way is to do some DNA test as health preventive measures to know if you're at risk of any health conditions.
Breastfeeding your baby
If you can, try to breastfeed your baby as it can burn a staggering 500 to 700 calories a day. For many women, this means they will be able to increase their calorie intake and still lose weight. Just remember that when the breastfeeding stops or becomes less frequent, you will need to adjust your calorie intake accordingly. If you don’t, you’ll find yourself piling on the pounds.
It is possible to regain your figure after giving birth. The important thing to remember is not to be too hard on yourself. Those extra pounds and tired and worn out muscles are going to need time to disappear and recover. Push yourself too hard, and you’ll be doing more harm than good. Encourage your partner to get in tip-top shape with you, as you’ll be more likely to stick with the healthier habits if you do it together.
It is possible to regain your figure after giving birth. The important thing to remember is not to be too hard on yourself. Those extra pounds and tired and worn out muscles are going to need time to disappear and recover. Push yourself too hard, and you’ll be doing more harm than good. Encourage your partner to get in tip-top shape with you, as you’ll be more likely to stick with the healthier habits if you do it together.
- This is a PR collaboration.