Breastfeeding and Weight Loss

Maintaining a Healthy Size

By Gwen Morrison

Though many women experience natural weight loss while breastfeeding their babies, some moms are finding it difficult to maintain a healthy balance.

"New moms experience a dramatic lifestyle change," Dr. Klauer says. "Their newborn's care becomes a priority, and they don't focus enough on their own exercise and dietary needs. There is also a greater tendency to snack."

Paula Macdonald, a new mom from London, Ontario, Canada,breastfed her baby for just a short time. "I did it for a few months, and then was unable to continue, so I didn't experience any weight loss," Macdonald says. "I am struggling now, almost a year later, to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight. I am taking a yoga class and eating all the right foods. It's not easy."

Dr. Klauer suggests that new moms get back to their exercise routines and try to make time to work their way up to at least 30 minutes a day. With proper diet, self-motivation and a personalized exercise routine, women should be able to maintain a healthy weight during and after breastfeeding.

"Buy some aerobic tapes; join some exercise classes or buy a baby jogger," Dr. Klauer says. "Babies absolutely love the joggers, as they can watch the world go by so quickly. Don't snack on empty calories, but on foods that will provide nutrients such as low-fat cheese, fruits, vegetables and nuts."

Francine Miller, co-founder of WellCall, Canada's leading provider of accessible and personalized health management services, agrees that it is important for a new mom's body to have enough calories and nutrients to produce milk.

"A strenuous diet is not the answer," Miller says. "You should avoid liquid diets or any weight-loss drugs; it is imperative that a nursing mother consume sufficient calories to adequately nourish herself and her baby."

Miller shares her professional advice for new mothers on the best ways to promote healthy weight loss post delivery whether breastfeeding or not.

"Drink skim milk, instead of whole milk products," Miller says. "Do not eat fried foods; bake, boil or roast as an alternative. Eat more fish and less red meat. Eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains and cereals."

Want to see more?

• Striking a Balance: Healthy Eating Habits for the Nursing Mother
• Smart Nutrition for Breastfeeding Moms
• Fitness and Breastfeeding: A Winning Combination
• Healthy Weight Loss for Nursing Mothers
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