Becoming a new mom is one of the most magical times in life. It can also be an exhausting and frustrating time when getting back in your pre-baby jeans. Mandy Rushing and her husband Paul welcomed their first daughter, Blake in December 2016. Mandy Shares her top tips on how she stayed active and bounced back after baby.
1. Get moving!
Just a little physical activity will energize you.
Remember, even when you’re not motivated a quick walk with your bundle of joy around the neighborhood will enhance your mood and keep you going. Once I was cleared by my doctor, I slowly got back into my exercise routine. I began with some easy cardio at least three times a week, for thirty minutes a day. I gradually increased my distance and speed each week. Take it easy at first, but you must start somewhere, and you will get there soon enough!
2. Weight training 2-3 times a week.
Lifting weights burns fat and increases your metabolism. This is good for post-partum weight. I am lucky in this department. My husband, Paul, is the owner of Anytime Fitness South Highlands. It is best to get to the gym two to three days a week, but when you can’t make it, your baby can be a big help. Weight training with baby is like super-mom multi-tasking! You get to work out and love on your little one at the same time. Check out Diaryofafitmommy.com for a quick and easy mommy and baby work out.
3. Healthy diet.
I try to fill my diet with lots of lean protein and vegetables. Cooking more at home helps to sticking to a healthier meal plan. With a new baby at home, cooking is not always possible. When you are short on time, and possible sleep, snack on bananas, citrus, berries, grapes, fruit smoothies, and big green vegetable salads.
4. Cut the salt and sugar.
Salt causes your body to retain water. Sugar sends your blood sugar levels on a rollercoaster ride and causes cravings. Diets high in fat and sodium can delay the postpartum recovery process by interfering with energy production, causing the metabolism to slow down, and leads to fluid retention. Craving sweets? Try and stick to fresh fruits to curb the craving.
5. Hydrate!!
Water helps you burn more calories, curb overeating and shed pounds. Most adult women require a minimum of two liters of water daily. New mommies usually require more! When we are hydrated, our cells can work at their most optimal potential. Again, this equals a faster metabolism, increased energy, better mental focus, balanced hormones, and a stronger immune system.
6. Get six to eight hours of good sleep.
This is a tough one, but important. Good sleep helps boost energy levels and prevents bad cravings. In the first couple of weeks after your baby arrives, you will need lots of rest to recover, manage and regain your pre-pregnancy figure.
Good sleep lowers stress hormones, promotes the release of human growth hormone, repairs and rejuvenates cellular systems, and enhances nutrient utilization; all of this gets your metabolism going, and helps you bounce back.
7. Remember it takes time
Your body just created a human being. That is pretty remarkable! It takes nine months for us mommies to grown these beautiful little creatures. Give yourself a pat on the back and time to bounce back. You will get in those pre-baby jeans soon enough! Stay healthy and enjoy this precious time.