First published: 16 November 2022 @ 6:00 pm
Putting on extra weight after pregnancy is normal. It happens to most women and can be quite disheartening for those who struggle with their physical appearance.
Many women feel embarrassed or anxious about the extra weight. They feel self-conscious and worry about the attractiveness of their body.
This article provides some tips on how to deal with extra weight after pregnancy.
1. Accept Your New Shape
Before getting into any postpartum exercise routine, it’s important to accept that you are now a mother with a body that is a little different from what you were before.
Don’t let this upset you or cause you stress. It’s normal for a woman’s body to change after she gives birth.
Accepting this is the first step towards accepting your new shape and getting on with it! It will be easier to get into a routine of exercise if you put priority on your health first.
2. Pick Exercises You Like
For a few weeks after delivery, it can be a little overwhelming to face so many new and unfamiliar tasks.
If you have been rushing to do some exercise, this may make it even more difficult to maintain the intensity. It’s also easy to feel lazy or unmotivated after a few days.
That’s why it is important that you choose exercises you like, which are fun and easy to follow. Having fun with your exercise routine will help you stick with it.
It’s also important that you pick exercises that will work for your current physical condition. You may have been quite active before pregnancy, but it’s unlikely that you will be able to maintain the same level of activity.
3. Get Enough Nutrition
Trying to lose weight doesn’t mean you should skip meals or cutting out on important nutrients.
Your body needs a steady supply of the right nutrients to make sure you stay healthy. After all, you are still nursing and producing breast milk for your baby.
This means that you will need to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as protein and good fats.
Eat small meals throughout the day to keep your energy levels up. The smaller meals will help you avoid snacking between meals.
Photo by lucas mendes on Pexels.
4. Try Out New Skin Care Routines
Take pleasures in activities such as a relaxing bath, a sauna, or even a visit to the spa.
The increased activity and stress of daily life can lead to flaking skin and breakouts. The problem may also be caused by other factors, such as excess hormones or allergies.
Whatever the cause, it is important to treat your skin gently to prevent further damage.
5. Get Enough Hours of Sleep
Dealing with a newborn baby might make it difficult to get the sleep you need.
However, this doesn’t mean that you should skimp on sleep.
Getting enough sleep is important for your mental health and your physical health.
It’s best to aim for around seven to nine hours a night. Some women may be more tired than others, and this will depend on how much rest they got during the day.
If you’re feeling tired, try to take a quick nap instead of sleeping in later than usual.
Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
Putting on extra weight after pregnancy is normal. It happens to most women and can be quite disheartening for those who struggle with their physical appearance.
It’s important to take time out for yourself and not be too hard on yourself if you have gained some weight.
You might find it helpful to get support from your partner, friends, and family. They may be able to give you advice or help you in other ways that are useful when it comes to losing weight after pregnancy.
Our blog, Mature Parent, has articles and information on topics such as coping with post-partum depression, parenting after separation, breastfeeding and sleep issues. Check out now for more information!
