A lot has been discussed about breastfeeding and weight loss, and almost every new mother considers that it is the easiest way to lose pregnancy weight. But there are many important facts to be known before attempting to lose weight during the breastfeeding period. There is a lot of information out there and most of it is just hearsay. It is best to get your facts straight so you know you are realistic in your expectations in regards to losing weight after pregnancy.

Fact #1

If you felt that Nature was being unfair to women by piling on all those extra pounds during pregnancy; then here is the other side of the coin. Breastfeeding is a great chance provided by Nature for new mommies to lose weight and get back in to shape.

Fact # 2

Even if you are not putting in any amount of exercise or any extra effort at all during the breastfeeding phase; you could easily burn off almost 500 calories in a day. This does mean that breastfeeding and weight loss go hand in hand as burning away 500 calories in a day is by no means a small feat with regard to weight loss.

Fact # 3

If you thought that you could get back in to your pre-pregnancy slim figure by just breast feeding and continue to indulge in all kinds of unhealthy diets; then you are grossly mistaken. You can just burn off 500 calories per day by breast feeding and no more. If your weight is already quite excessive and you are continuing to store fat due to increased calorie consumption; then you may even start gaining weight instead of losing it.

Fact # 4

Dieting during lactation is not at all recommended and may even prove to be harmful to both you and your baby. Your diet needs to be nutritious and balanced to ensure that your baby is getting enough nutrients from your breast milk.

Fact # 5

If you do not consume necessary calories and attempt to lose weight by dieting during lactation; then it might affect the quantity and quality of your breast milk. A lactation consultant can better advise you with regard to your concerns over breast feeding and weight loss

Fact # 6

Rather than attempting to lose weight by dieting during lactation; it is better to indulge in moderate workouts like swimming, dancing or even walking to achieve effective weight loss results. Swimming can burn up to 670 calories in just an hour if you can mange to swim vigorously.

Fact # 7

Stress is a major cause for weight gain and lactation can come across as a very stressful phase to the new mother. It is essential to involve yourself in de-stressing and relaxation techniques like meditation or Yoga in order to hasten the weight loss during lactation.

While breastfeeding and weight loss is a hot topic for new mothers, it is best to consider what is healthy for you and your new newborn. If nursing, don’t rush the weight loss as your new child needs the nourishment and also needs you to be healthy.

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