Pregnancy and childbirth can cause mothers to gain weight. Delivery sometimes leaves a protruded stomach in new mothers. While this is not a big deal for some, it can be frustrating to others. Have you given up on wearing your old jeans? Maybe you have even given out your old clothes to friends. Some have been able to regain their weight and shape after child birth following some procedures. How did they go about it? Does it depend on the nature of their body? Well, read on to find out.

Does it depend on the nature of your body?

Undoubtedly, genetic makeup has a significant role in this. But to be honest, some mothers do not necessarily work on getting their old shape after delivery; they subconsciously agree that it is not within their control or too costly. Nature has a role to play , just not entirely. It can be influenced through the application of proven weight loss principles. The social categorization of women into the class of mothers because of their body shape is not what you want, you still want to maintain your radiancy and that is achievable, just take the responsibility for it.

Just like every weight-loss program, there are procedures to take.

1- Be easy on yourself

You need to be gentle on yourself as you accept the changes in your body. Slow and steady wins the race. If it is controllable, you need not make a big deal out of it. Just take the necessary preparations for your weight loss journey. You should consult your doctor before you begin your weight loss program. Postpartum is a delicate period and there can be consequences if things are not done the right way.

For example, a mother who delivered through the cesarean section should not do strenuous exercises without medical consultation. that ignorance would impact negatively on her health. It takes 6-8 weeks for a woman to complete a postpartum recovery, and that must be taken into cognizance too.

2- Postpartum Exercise

A post-pregnancy workout plan will help you to safely return to a pre-pregnancy body shape. To begin a postpartum exercise routine, mothers should always be true to life and patient. It took around 9 months or more in some cases to form the pregnant body, and it could take nearly as long to fully regain your pre-pregnancy self. The body undergoes a huge transformation from pregnancy to delivery of a baby. Dropping off that extra weight won't happen overnight, so don't expect instant results.

3- Get plenty of rest

You need to get as much sleep as possible to cope with tiredness and fatigue. The more rested you are, the better your body and mind functions. During the postpartum period, the body heals, but the baby would frequently request feeding, so there is a lot of stress involved. Make sure to take a rest when your baby is sleeping. You should seek help from family and friends to help attend to the baby while you get some rest.
You need not only to rest but to eat well too.

4- Eat well regularly

Breastfeeding itself will cause you to want to eat more. While there is a regular need for you to eat, you should ensure to only eat foods that are quality in nutrition. Making a good choice of what you eat can help you lose weight in a healthy way after pregnancy. Here is a guide to help you diet properly:

Limit the intake of salt and sugary foods e.g. sugar-sweetened soda and other forms of carbonated drinks including energy drinks.
Eat more vegetables and plant foods, this should include fruits and whole grains.
Proteins from natural sources are great. Eat more natural proteinous foods. Paleo meals are good.
Eat small quantities at intervals to avoid constipation, remember the body is in a healing process.

How to Exercise Safely

Physical activities contribute greatly to weight loss.  You do not have to wait for weeks after childbirth to begin exercising. If you had an uncomplicated delivery, it is often safe to begin bodily exercises. However, you should start light and slowly. If you had a C-section or some complicated delivery processes, you need to talk to your doctor  about when it is safe to begin your exercise programs.

Whenever you begin, start with simple exercises that affect your abdominal and back muscles. Gradually add exercises of moderate intensity with time. Light abdominal crunches will help to lose belly fat
Note that it will take a while to drop all the extra weight, so, be patient with yourself.

The role of breastfeeding

You should try to breastfeed your baby regularly, Regular breastfeeding naturally helps in weight loss. Breastfeeding impacts positively on your child and also helps you against the risk of being overweight. It helps the brain cells of the baby to develop, and protects your child from common childhood illnesses. It has a lot of advantages for both the mother and child.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum period is a delicate period, so just as much as you want to drop those extra pounds, you should take caution and report any unusual feeling to your doctor. Do not overwork yourself and only engage in activities that will not affect your health and that of the child negatively.