Tips to Get Back in Shape After Pregnancy
Now that the hullabaloo around Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's pregnancy has come to an end, we can't wait but watch her shed those extra pounds and get back in shape!
Childbirth is a fresh chapter in a woman's life and the new mother is close to feeling hassled due to several changes – emotional as well as physical.
Here are a few tips that may go a long way in saying goodbye to all the weight gain during pregnancy.
Follow a nutritious diet: This is the time when you cannot go wrong with what you eat as it affects the milk supply to the newborn baby. "Start consuming wholesome meals and adopt a sensible approach to losing weight post-delivery," suggests ACE-certified trainer Rashmi Uttam. She suggests new mommies to eat whole grains, fresh vegetables, high proteins in the form of fish and also healthy fats. "Good sources of such fats are nuts, olive oil and pure ghee, but all in balanced proportions," she says.
Breast feed your baby: Did you know that breastfeeding can actually help you lose those extra pounds? There's good news for new moms as nursing your precious one can lead to weight loss. Breastfeeding requires mothers to make milk which naturally burns calories and help her to shed those ugly flabs.
Start with yoga: If you have been regular with your yoga sessions before pregnancy, then it is easier for you to fall back to an exercise routine post-delivery of the baby. "The best yoga practice for new moms is Pranayam or breathing exercises. It is the most safe and effective way to lose weight after childbirth," says Rashmi.
Get a personal trainer: It is imperative to give your body some time to adjust to the new development. "There are different exercising norms for women who have undergone a normal delivery and a C-section. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your gynaec before adopting a workout regimen," suggests Rashmi. Side by side one can also start weight training preferably after four weeks under the supervision of a qualified personal trainer.
Think positive: Positive thinking goes a long way in preparing for a weight loss programme that is equally taxing on the mind and the body. Your baby is your first priority, so no matter how many kilos you have put on, remember you can get back in shape with time. Till then, revel in the happiness and positivity that your bundle of joy has brought into the family. :)
Go for walks: Brisk walking is probably the best exercise for women who have just delivered a baby. But at the same time, relax for at least 2-3 weeks before you hit the park! If you are a good swimmer, then it is a better idea to hit the pool to shed those kilos.
Say no to processed foods: As pointed out before, it is essential to follow a nutritious diet for your baby, more so if you are breastfeeding. Therefore, avoid all kinds of processed foods such as soft drinks, bakery products, frozen meals and canned food among others. Eat right and see how you get back to looking great!
Find support: It is very important to talk to friends and family members who have gone through a similar situation right after childbirth. Most often you will be flooded with interesting tips from an experienced mother. You can also pick up books on post-natal exercises and the like, to keep yourself motivated through the weight loss routine.
Continue with regular activities: If you were able to manage work and home during pregnancy without much difficulty, then you are safe to resume your normal activities after delivery. Cook up a tasty dish in the kitchen or arrange your book rack…there are so many things that can keep you on your toes!
Chalk out a food & exercise plan: With so much happening in the house since your bundle of joy arrived that you almost forgot to eat the right meal. To make things simple, chalk out a healthy and balanced food plan consulting a nutritionist. The same can be applied to exercises.
