Mums can expect to gain between 25 and 30lbs during pregnancy. Approximately 8lbs of this gained weight comes from stored fat and other nutrients. These are built up naturally in order to nurture and feed the new baby. However, problems can arise when eating habits formed before and during pregnancy carry on after the baby arrives.
Many Mums have cravings during pregnancy and, quite reasonably, feel the need to eat for two. It’s easy for the stomach to expand in size as a result of eating more during pregnancy. Having increased in size, more food is needed to feel full. If the stomach remains enlarged, this challenge can continue after the baby is born and the extra pounds may become stones.
To avoid feeling hungry, it’s important that the stomach gradually reduces in size. Here are some simple tips to reduce the size of your stomach safely and naturally after pregnancy.
1. Strengthen tummy muscles gradually. It’s not advisable to get straight into situps. These risk injury to the lower back and can also result in long term “doming” of the stomach. Pelvic tilts are the best way to start. These are subtle, exercises that slowly strengthen the abdominal muscles. These exercises realign and strengthen the muscles without risking long-term damage. For a great demonstration of how to do pelvic tilts, visit this excellent website
2. Plan your meals and snacks for optimal nutrition. Getting the right levels of fibre protein, carbohydrates and vegetables, minerals and nutrients speeds up fat loss. Good nutrition helps you feel more energetic as well as look great. It also enables calories to be burned faster.
3. Slowly increase the amount of physical activity you engage in each day. Your body is primed for weight loss between months two and nine after giving birth and will naturally seek to move back to previous weight levels. A regular daily walk, pushing your baby is a great way to get started. Even 10 minutes a day will help.
4. Many women feel an urge to drink alcohol again after pregnancy. After breast-feeding stops, the occasional glass is fine, though more than this will impact your efforts to lose the baby belly. Make sure that you are properly hydrated by drinking 2-3 litres of filtered water each day (but don’t drink more than this).
5. Eat plenty of green vegetables and as little processed food as possible. Fresh live foods will reduce toxin levels, enabling you to add vitality and feel more energetic. Skin tone, eyes, hair and nails will improve this way. You’ll lose weight by becoming healthier – always the best approach.
The ByeBye BabyBelly Program contains a practical and easy to follow plan to help you lose the baby belly, quickly and naturally. Visit www.ByeByeBabyBelly.com and download the comprehensive program now, even if it’s 2am!