Postpartum Weight Loss: 5 Key Considerations
Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful and transformative experience.
However, along with the joys of motherhood, it's common for women to experience changes in their bodies, including weight gain during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Remember this is totally normal, but if you are someone who wants to manage their weight & build healthy habits, equipping yourself with the right knowledge will be important.
If you're a new mom navigating postpartum weight loss, you're not alone.
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Be Mindful of Your Thoughts to Yourself
The journey of postpartum weight loss begins with self-compassion. Your body has undergone an incredible transformation, and it's important to give yourself grace and patience as you adjust to your new normal. Be gentle with yourself and celebrate the strength and resilience of your body. Despite what society’s expectations are, you don’t need to bounce back.
The Importance of Nutrition
Nutrition plays a crucial role in postpartum recovery and weight loss. Fuel your body with nourishing foods that support healing & recovery, hormones, milk supply, and provide energy for the demands of motherhood. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods that will nourish both you and your baby. Hydration will also be key, there is no problem with having an electrolyte drink regularly once or twice a week. My favorite electrolyte brands include Liquid IV, LMNT, and Thorne.
Make Self-Care a Habit
As a new mom, it's easy to put your own needs on the back burner. However, prioritizing self-care is essential for your physical and emotional well-being. Even small acts of self-love, such as taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, can make a big difference in how you feel. Remember that taking care of yourself enables you to better care for your little one.
Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic and achievable goals is key to success in your postpartum weight loss journey. Instead of focusing on quick fixes or drastic measures, aim for gradual progress and sustainable lifestyle changes. See my photo below? That was my postpartum weight loss journey in one year. There is only an 8 lb difference in that picture. 8 pounds!! My journey was very slow, but also so manageable as a postpartum mom of 2 under 2 and business owner.
Set small, manageable goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). You can find a SMART Goal Setting Sheet in my free Motherhood Essentials Bundle. Remember to celebrate your victories along the way, no matter how small they may seem.
Stay Active
Incorporating gentle movement into your daily routine can support your postpartum recovery and aid in weight loss. Activities such as postnatal yoga, walking with your baby in the stroller, or engaging in low-impact exercises can help strengthen your body, boost your mood, and increase your energy levels. Listen to your body and start slowly, gradually increasing the intensity and duration as you feel comfortable.
Increasing daily activity a little at a time not only helps you burn more calories in the long term picture, but also signals your body to create more energy, as you are using more energy.
Bonus: Get a Support System
Navigating postpartum weight loss, and even motherhood, can feel overwhelming at times, but you don't have to do it alone. Consider seeking support from a health coach or joining a supportive community of fellow moms who are on a similar journey. Working with a professional can provide personalized guidance, accountability, and motivation to help you reach your goals.
Every woman's postpartum weight loss journey is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Remember to be patient with yourself, focus on nourishing your body with healthy foods, prioritize self-care, set realistic goals, stay active, and seek support when needed. By taking small steps each day and embracing self-compassion, you can achieve your health and wellness goals and thrive as a new mom.
If the thought of working on your postpartum health seems overwhelming, don't fret – I'm here to help. Sign up for personalized coaching to ensure you're getting the help your body needs for a healthy postpartum and beyond.
