Dr Shauna Fannin Chair of the Editorial Board of Emma's Diary highlights extreme measures new mums are going to in order to regain their pre-baby body and what you should do instead
Parenting on Female First
Having a baby is such an exciting time, however we know that for many new mums the changes in their body can overcome their feelings of happiness as they worry about their new shape and how they will ever look and feel like themselves again.
We also have very high expectations in the 21st century and this doesn’t help with the increasing pressure we place on ourselves to snap back to our pre-baby selves, held up against unrealistic ideals fuelled by celebrities. In fact, during a recent survey1 we found that over a third of new mums have tried extreme diets and exercise in a bid to improve their post-baby body, while 1 in 5 tried fasting and 15% bought diet pills.
What’s more, 1 in 20 have turned to cosmetic surgery and a fifth have purchased multiple skin firming and tightening body creams. The result being that one in 10 new mums have spent up to £3,000 to improve how they feel about their body – a huge amount which can also lead to financial pressures with buying products for your baby too.
If you’re struggling with negative feelings about your body after having your little one, it’s really important that you take care of yourself rather than exhausting yourself with rigorous workouts or spending lots of money on driving weight loss. Your baby needs you to be strong, healthy and present for them. Instead, try following our tips below which will help you to lose weight safely after having your baby while ensuring your wellbeing isn’t forgotten about.
Remember that everyone is unique. Easier said than done sometimes, but we know that for many mums it can take between 3 and 12 months to lose weight gained throughout pregnancy. Take time to focus on yourself, set realistic goals and consult with a health professional who can advise what is right for you when you’re ready.
Avoid fads and crash diets. After having a baby your body needs balanced nutrition to recover, especially if you’re breastfeeding, and your little one needs you to have energy to focus on them too. If you restrict yourself too much, you’ll not only feel tired but you’ll be irritable as well.
Instead, make good choices. Eat more plant foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Choose lean protein from a variety of sources. Avoid sweets and high calorie snacks and control portion sizes. Make sure you drink plenty of water too.
Eat foods high in fibre. These will help you to feel fuller for longer and are likely to reduce the amount of food you then eat throughout the day. Mornings can be difficult when trying to establish a new routine with your baby, however a bowl of porridge topped with fruit provides a great start to the day and can be quick and easy to make.
Take up exercise. Start with walking, gentle jogs and yoga to get your body used to moving again. Don’t go it alone - invite other mums to join you for a daily walk or try a postnatal exercise class. Working out with others can help motivate you.
When you’re ready, pick up the weights. Combining cardio with weights is a great way to lose weight and increase muscle mass. Start with lighter weights to begin with and as your confidence and ability increases up the weight and the reps. If you haven’t done weights before do get proper advice from a trainer or fitness specialist so you don’t hurt yourself.
Surround yourself with positive influences. Although there has been a recent increase in celebrities encouraging women to celebrate their post-baby body, 1 in 4 new mums have revealed that social media makes them feel inadequate. Be kind to yourself and instead of focusing on the accounts that make you feel negatively about yourself, focus on those which inspire women to feel good. Stacey Solomon is a fantastic example and her honest approach to being a mum is both refreshing and comforting. Also look for local mum and baby groups who can offer you the support you need.
And remember, if you’re worried about your feelings spiralling further, please do reach out and speak to someone. Whether that’s a friend, family member, your midwife, health visitor or GP. It’s really important you get the support you need. You can also learn more about wellbeing as a new mum here: www.emmasdiary.co.uk/wellbeing.
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