QuestionHelene,
I am almost 32 weeks pregnant and although I still have a while to go, I'm already beginning to think about loosing weight afterwards. I'm trying to be prepared! I plan on breastfeeding and I know that helps burn a lot of calories, but I don't want to loose weight too fast and have my skin sag.
I've gained 35 pounds so far, and will probably end up gaining 40-45 pounds total.
How many pounds would be safe to loose a week?
Also, when can I start working out after giving birth? and do you have any recommended at home exercises? I'm due in February so I can't really go outside to walk or run..
Thank you so much!
Samantha
AnswerYou will loose about 15 pounds or more during delivery, then most likely a few more pounds in the initial week after childbirth.
Recognize that as a new mom, you've built and are running a milk factory, so you are bigger than before pregnancy. And that the majority of the weight you've gained is NOT extra fat.
Being a new mom is a fairly sedentary lifestyle, so you don't need to eat a lot of extra calories. Breastfeeding puts previously stored fat into circulation, that your body uses for your own basic metabolism and to make milk for your infant. So the best plan is to eat the highest quality diet that you can, in the right amount (not too little and not too much). Using this method you will slowly transition back to your pre-pregnancy body without dieting.
As to exercise, start with postpartum exercises that develop core strength and stability. Don't do crunches, as they cause more harm than good. High impact exercise like running should be delayed until about 6 months postpartum, when your ligaments are no longer too long and soft.
For more info on postpartum reconditioning go to:
http://www.befitmom.com/abdominal_reconditioning.html
