Can I Safely Lose Weight While Breastfeding

Can I Safely Lose Weight While I Am Breastfeeding?

How much weight should I expect to lose in a month?

Nursing mothers should keep their weekly weight loss goals to a maximum of a pound to a pound and half a week.  If you lose 1.5 pounds per week, you could safely assume that you will lose around 6 pounds a month.  Losing weight slowly will keep your milk supply, ensure that your are getting enough nutrients, and help you maintain your weight loss after you reach your goal weight.

Can I safely exercise while I am breastfeeding?

Absolutely, you can develop an exercise plan that meets your breastfeeding demands.  Exercise is a great way to burn calories and reduce stress.  Keep in mind that if you are exercising, you may have to adjust your caloric intake so that you net between 1500 and 1800 calories a day.  For example, if you work out for 30 min and burn 300 calories.  You will need to eat between 1800 and 2200 calories that day to maintain your caloric intake required for breastfeeding.

Are quick fix diets safe while breastfeeding?

No!  Quick fix diets aren’t safe when you are not breastfeeding so it is important to steer clear of fad diets and gimmicks while you are breastfeeding.  It is important that nursing mothers maintain an adequate source of nutrition while breastfeeding.  Don’t use weight loss herbs, medications, liquid diets, and other popular dieting methods.

What kind of exercise do you recommend for new mother’s?

A new baby can take up most of a mother’s time especially during the first three months.  However, finding time to exercise will help you have more energy to keep up with your baby’s demands but it can also help boost your weight loss efforts.  A busy mom could take baby for a walk in the stroller even if its hot outside, you could venture for a stroll around the mall.  There are some yoga exercises that involve your baby.  If you can’t find a set exercise time, then break up your workout routines throughout the day.

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Originally written: August 9, 2012

How did you lose weight while breastfeeding and breastfeeding a newborn?