Weight gain during pregnancy is natural and healthy, but if you're like most women, you want to regain your initial weight as soon as possible. Be patient: it takes nine months to take the weight of pregnancy, it could be the same for the lose.
How often should you gain weight?
The number of pounds you lose after delivery and the speed at which you lose weight depends in part that you took during pregnancy. If your weight gain is higher than recommended, it will probably take a little longer to lose that excess weight.
Aim for a gradual weight loss after pregnancy. A weight loss of about 0.5 kg (1 lb) per week is a healthy rate and safely. The rate of weight loss is also suitable if you are breastfeeding and should not affect breast milk (quantity and quality). Expect that the rate of breastfeeding is well established before trying to lose weight. If you notice a change in your breast milk (quantity or quality), consult your doctor.
Why is it important to lose the weight gained during pregnancy?
It is important for your health to regain the weight you had before your pregnancy. The more you keep the excess weight, you run the risk not to lose and to be suffering from overweight or obesity.
If you plan to have another child, it is best to wait until you lose your pregnancy weight before trying to get pregnant again. If you are overweight before getting pregnant, you may be exposed to a higher risk of complications in the next pregnancy. For example, if you start another pregnancy with excess weight, you could develop gestational diabetes or your baby could have a weight higher than average birth.
Tips to lose weight after pregnancy
Here are some sound strategies to help you gradually lose your pregnancy weight and keep it off.