7 Smart Ways to Lose Weight While Breastfeeding

After giving birth, most mothers tend to worry about getting their pre-pregnancy bodies back. It is important to understand, though, that every person is unique and so while some mothers may lose weight without doing much, the process may take time for others.

Breastfeeding, though optional, helps with weight loss. An important point to remember here is that if you have decided to breastfeed your child, you will have to up your caloric intake by 300-600 calories per day, this ensures that your child receives enough nourishment and that you also remain energized after each feed.

In This Article

What You Need To Know

If you are trying to lose the post-baby weight, listen to your body and understand what works and what doesn’t.

Hunger is normal. However, during the period of breastfeeding, you will lose more energy, and this will cause you to feel hungry more often. If the caloric intake is not watched carefully during this period, you may end up gaining more weight than you lose.

The best bet is to snack smartly and healthily. As you wean off breastfeeding, you can reduce the consumption of the additional calories to maintain a healthy weight.

Prepare Yourself

The best way to lose weight while also providing your child with adequate nutrition is to prepare your meals and snacks in advance.

Now, this isn’t easy since we all love our fast food and quick snacks. Many of us spend time eating junk and making excuses because- ‘I just had a baby!’, this, of course, shouldn’t be the go-to reason for you piling on even more weight.

Stock up with easy snacks like celery, peanut butter sticks, oatmeal, apples, the list is endless. We’ve combined 7 of our favorite snacks to help you out. Not only are these snacks delicious, but they’re also super easy to make and to keep ready for that 2 am-snack along with your baby.

7 Snack Ideas For Breastfeeding Mums

1. Hard-Boiled Eggs And A Glass Of Chocolate Milk:

A peculiar combination. However, the protein content in both items will help with lactation and weight loss.

2. Cottage Cheese And Fresh Fruit Or Veggie Toppings:

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This is a delicious snack which you can have at any time of the day! It has just the right amount of crunch and is full of nutrients.

3. Wholegrain Toast With Some Banana And Peanut Butter:

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Everything is better with a little bit of peanut butter. The right amount of sweet, fats and fiber works great not only for mothers but for just about anyone!

4. Smoked Salmon Wrapped Around Low-Fat Cream Cheese:

This works great for both mum and baby. The omega-3 in salmon is a huge plus in the weight loss regime and also helps in your baby’s eye and brain development. An added bonus is that this snack is only 209 calories.

5. Trail Mix Nuts And Yoghurt:

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A quick and easy snack. Can be made on the spot or in a little carry-on for any time of the day.

6. Bagels And Cream Cheese:

Delicious and easy to prepare. A classic weight loss snack despite not having a complete nutritional profile on its’ own.

7. Celery, Peanut Butter And Raisins:

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This nutritious snack works well for both mom and baby. It’s delicious and full of vitamins.

Be Calm With Weight Loss During Breastfeeding

If you’re looking to lose weight as a breastfeeding mother, be patient. Weight loss during this period will be slow. Don’t aim for your weight loss to be more than 1kg a week – this is to ensure that you remain healthy, and so does your child.

Another reason for you to not hurry your regime is that the faster you lose weight, the faster it tends to comes back. Keeping this in mind, healthy eating is the best way to lose weight while not risking your milk supply.

Remember, during the period of weaning, some weight gain could be possible despite your best efforts. Don’t fret – during this time you can draw up new meal plans and see how alterations in your lifestyle can help you lose weight.

And as always, make sure you consult a doctor whenever you plan to start a diet plan post pregnancy.

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