LOSING BELLY FAT AFTER CHILDBIRTH

Weight gain is one of the indelible marks of pregnancy. The weight gain is caused by hormonal changes in a pregnant woman’s body and is necessary in keeping the well-nourished and cushioned against physical shocks during the course of a pregnancy.

After childbirth, the body fat remains which can be a cause of bother to many new mothers. Most of these fats accumulate around the stomach and the hips – the reason most mothers can’t fit in their old clothes even after delivery.

Of all the problem areas, abdominal fats are the hardest to get rid of. You can’t lose fat on specific places without a comprehensive weight loss and fitness plan.

Types of abdominal fats

The abdomen contains several organs which are covered by visceral fats. A little visceral fat is good in protecting your internal organs from getting damaged during impact or physical shocks. However, too much of it is dangerous and even more so because visceral fat is invisible.

The other more visible type of fat is the subcutaneous fats which is lies below the skin and is what gives the impression of belly fat.

Your fitness plan should target both types of fats.

When to get started

Regardless of your mode of delivery, it is important to give your body time to recover. Rushing to lose weight will not only harm yourself but also disadvantage your baby.

It is recommended to wait for at least two months after childbirth before commencing on a exercise program and cutting down on calories intake.

What to do

Here’s what to do in order to get rid of stubborn belly fat.

Breastfeed
Breastfeeding can help mothers lose baby belly. The reason for this is that breastfeeding causes your uterus contract back to its usual size, thereby shrinking your belly. Take advantage of breastfeeding to nourish your baby and lose weight without breaking a sweat.

Eat healthy

Eat for one and pay attention to what you eat. Eating a balanced diet in the right portions will help you lose overall body weight and by extension, belly fat.

If you are constantly feeling hungry because of breastfeeding, have healthy snacks like fruits, yoghurts and milkshakes. Weight Loss Shakes Reviews gives you a guide on the types of shakes that help you lose weight while still giving all the important nutrients.

Do not indulge in sugary drinks as they slow down your body’s ability to burn down fat and may even exacerbate the weight gain.

You should also not go on a diet while still nursing your baby as this will affect breast milk production and deprive your baby of important nutrients they need to grow and develop.

Exercise the whole body

You need to exercise to get your pre-pregnancy body back. Exercise improves your metabolism and burns fats as well as toning your body. It is important for your body to completely heal before engaging in more intensive forms of physical exercise, although you can start by walking a few weeks after child birth.

Abdominal exercises alone will not rid your body of belly fat. You need to exercise your whole body and achieve overall weight loss if you are to lose some of that abdominal fat.