It's almost impossible to ignore the tremendous attention given recently to a handful of celebrities who are in the news because they've just had a baby. In addition to showing us the newest family members, most of the media are focusing on how these famous moms can get back their near-perfect figures in no time at all. Many of these women appear to be losing tremendous amounts of weight in just a few weeks. Eating a nutritious diet and getting enough exercise can be complicated at the best of times. Adding a child to the equation can create a whole new set of challenges, even if you are part of the Hollywood elite. (Of the many celebrities who claim a diet, drink, pill, or potion helped them shed unwanted pounds, I wonder how many really have such a magic bullet, and how many are simply losing weight from extra activity or increased calorie expenditure associated with breastfeeding.
Nutrition after pregnancy is just as important as nutrition during pregnancy. It's natural to want to return to our pre-pregnancy size, but there are health hazards (including decreased milk supply, induced ketosis which can be passed to the baby, and decreased energy to deal with a newborn) associated with rapid weight loss and inadequate nutrition after pregnancy. If you are a new mom and have decided to breastfeed, remember that you newborn will be getting all his or her nutrients from you. When you nurse, some experts recommend you increase your food consumption by as many as 500 calories a day to meet your baby's needs. This extra intake needs to be individualized to meet your personal needs and can be guided by your obstetrician.
In addition, you need to make sure that your diet is balanced and includes good sources of vitamins and minerals. If you neglect your diet during breastfeeding, your baby will probably continue to get everything he needs from you, but you may suffer. In addition, trying to lose weight too quickly while you're still breastfeeding could hinder your milk supply and cause your body to produce unwanted toxins that will be passed on to your baby in your breast milk.
Those of you who choose not to breastfeed also need to slow down your weight loss efforts. Remember, it took 9 months to gain the extra weight; it will take at least that long to take it off again. Pace yourself to lose 1 or 2 pounds per week. Start gradually, increasing your efforts as time passes. You need to heal from your delivery and good nutrition will help with this process. Finally, exercise is an important as part of any weight loss effort, but check with your health care professional before you start any exercise program after delivery.
