Dear Mommies: Reclaiming Your Body Post-pregnancy
One problem many women have after pregnancy is getting back in shape. Studies show that most women feel unhappy with their bodies within nine months after childbirth. Some women can immediately start working out and see results quickly, while others take a little longer to regain their former bodies. And then there are those poor souls who seem to never be able to get rid of that extra weight and inches around the waist no matter how much they workout or diet.
While there is nothing wrong with a woman’s body after giving birth, you may find it hard to cope with the changes. It can be tough to see your body undergo all of these changes, especially if you were in great shape before getting pregnant. But don’t worry. There are things you can do to get your body back to where it was before (or at least close).
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First, Accept Your New Body
Accepting your new body may be the hardest thing for some women, but it is important. Your body has just been through a lot and needs time to recover. If you try to do too much too soon, you will just end up hurting yourself. So take it easy and give yourself some time to adjust to your new body.
Your body may not be the same as before you had kids, but that doesn’t mean it is any less beautiful. In fact, your new body is now a badge of honor that shows you have been through one of the most amazing things a human can experience: childbirth. So be proud of your new body and give yourself a break.
You can do this by wearing clothes that make you feel good about yourself. Focus on the things you like about your body, not the things you don’t and have no control over. You can also consider talking to other moms about how they feel about their bodies post-pregnancy. Remember that your body is just a vessel for your amazing babies and that it will never be perfect.
Start Slow
When you are ready to start working out again, start slow. If you try too much exercise too soon, you will just injure yourself or get discouraged.
Start with some simple exercises like walking, jogging, or swimming. You can also look into joining a mom’s fitness group or class. There are usually classes specifically designed for new moms who want to get back into shape.
If you can’t make it to the gym or a class, there are plenty of workout videos and programs you can do at home with your kids. Just make sure to start slow and listen to your body.
Eat Healthy and Stay Hydrated
Eating a healthy diet is vital for everyone, but most especially if you are trying to lose weight. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Avoid sugary drinks, excessive amounts of caffeine, and processed foods.
You may also want to consider talking to a dietitian or nutritionist to help you come up with a healthy eating plan that fits your needs. They can help you figure out how many calories you should eat and the best foods to help you reach your goals. This is especially true if you are breastfeeding since you will need to ensure you get enough nutrients.
Drinking plenty of water is also essential. It will help you stay hydrated and avoid overeating. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
Drinking plenty of water can also help you lose weight. Adequate hydration allows your body to function at its best. This means that it can burn more calories and help you lose weight
Get Plenty of Rest
This is probably the last thing you want to hear when trying to get back in shape, but getting enough rest is crucial. Sleep deprivation makes it harder for your body to function as well. It also makes it harder to lose weight since your body is trying to conserve energy.
So make sure you get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. If you can, take a nap during the day when your baby is sleeping. You may also want to consider hiring a babysitter or ask a trusted loved one to watch your baby for a few hours each week so you can get some much-needed rest.
You may not be able to get a whole night’s sleep with a newborn, but try to take naps and get to bed early when possible. This way, you are helping your body to recover. Enough rest will also give you more energy to work out.
Consider Non-surgical Fat Reduction Options
If you are struggling to lose weight even after making lifestyle changes, you may want to consider non-surgical fat reduction options. These procedures can help you slim down without going under the knife. This enables women and men alike to get rid of stubborn fat that diet and exercise just can’t seem to budge.
Instead of liposuction surgery, one popular option is laser lipo, which uses a laser to break down the fat cells so your body can absorb these cells. This procedure is minimally invasive and has minimal downtime. It is also FDA-cleared for use on the abdomen, thighs, and love handles.
Another option is cryolipolysis, which eliminates fat cells by freezing them. Experts use this on multiple areas of the body, including the abdomen, thighs, arms, and back. This helps to naturally break down and eliminate the fat cells.
These are just a few of the many non-surgical fat reduction options available today. If you are interested in trying laser lipo, cryolipolysis, or other non-surgical fat reduction options, consult a board-certified professional. Find a clinic that offers these services, talk to their in-house specialists and book a consultation to see if these procedures are right for you. They can tell you when it is safe to undergo such treatment and which options would best suit your needs.
Having a baby is one of the most amazing experiences a woman can have. But it can also take a toll on your body. Many women struggle to lose weight and get back in shape after pregnancy. If you are struggling to slim down, don’t despair. This list can help you lose weight, regain your body, and restore confidence.