One point can’t be emphasized enough. Weight loss takes time
after pregnancy. A sensible goal would be to lose 1-2 pounds per
week, particularly if you are looking for the weight you gained
to stay off.
Eating a well balanced diet and partaking in regular exercise
are the critical success factors for weight loss after
pregnancy. Fad diets will not work, and may actually work
against you in the long run.
Exercise is a vital component of weight loss after pregnancy.
Many people simply are not able to lose the weight they gained
unless they exercise, particularly if there metabolism has
slowed at all in the months post partum.
If you are getting exercise on a regular basis and eating well,
but still not losing weight a year or more after you give birth
to your baby, seek out the advice of your health care provider.
There are a number of conditions that may arise after delivery
that can contribute to weight gain, none the least of which are
thyroid abnormalities which are sometimes very common after
pregnancy.
Remember also that every person is unique, and all women will
respond to an exercise and fitness plan differently. You may put
two women on the same program that have the same amount of
weight to lose, yet there results will ultimately be different
depending on a number of personal and biological factors.
The point here is that you should not compare yourself to
others! Remember that as long as you are eating well and
exercises, you are creating a lifestyle of healthy living that
will ultimately benefit you individually as the unique person
that you are.
And finally, remember to stay positive. Society puts far too
much pressure on women to lose the weight they gained during
pregnancy. There is no rush, you will lose the weight and feel
great in the process. In the meantime be sure to be good to
yourself, reward yourself for your successes no matter how
small, and remember to smile from time to time!