Your body just performed a miracle: It created life! But that miracle has most likely caused some changes in your body.
Now that you have experienced the most ups and downs of being a new mom, you might feel that it is time to take care of yourself again. Here are our top tips on how to take care of your body post pregnancy.
You might be one of those lucky moms whose body bounces right back to their pre-pregnancy state, or you might have a more difficult time to recuperate. Some mothers find it very hard to get back to their “normal” weight, or they even experience: stretch marks, acne, pigmentation, puffy eyes, hair loss or dark circles (to name a few). Though there is no magic formula or potion, if you give your body some time and be consistent, you will soon look and feel great again.
Weight Loss: If you are lucky enough to breastfeed your baby, you will burn up to 500 extra calories a day. Which is almost the same as a daily hour of cardio at the gym. If you are breastfeeding you most likely will go back to your post-pregnancy weight in a few months through breastfeeding alone. That is if you watch your diet and eat clean and organic, which is also essential for your breastmilk production. If you are not breastfeeding, you will need to create the calorie deficit in another way. If you are not one that likes to count their calorie intake, make sure that most of your diet is based on organic fruit and vegetable, eat clean and stay away from processed food and sugars. Make sure you get enough exercise. Don't have the time? Take your baby with you. Instead of just taking the stroller around the block, take an extra long walk and walk fast or sign up for mommy baby swimming classes.
Your skin: There are several uncomfortable issues that may arise during and after pregnancy such as acne, which is normal during your pregnancy due to the high level of progesterone. Because of the hormonal changes after pregnancy, you might break out in acne, even if your skin was clear during your pregnancy. If you are suffering from acne, make sure to clean your skin with a gentle (organic) soap twice a day. Use a skin moisturizer that is made for oily skin and is light in texture, or even better apply organic aloe directly to the affected area. It works miracles! Aloe can also be applied for stretch marks and helps puffy eyes. Also, make sure to drink water, and then drink some more :).
Hair: Unfortunately some women experience hair loss after pregnancy. To keep hair loss to a minimum avoid, exposing it to any toxins such as hair dye. Also, use an organic shampoo that does not include chemicals. Choose a shampoo that is specially designed for hair loss. Keep your scalp and hair clean. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, such as apples, prunes, and berries. For some women, with extreme hair loss, a supplement can be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Be kind to yourself: It is absolutely normal that your body needs time to adapt to your new situation and hormone imbalances. Don't stress or get frustrated if you don't see immediate results or feel uncomfortable with your body. Give yourself time to heal and be kind to yourself. Once your body and mind get used to being a new mom, things will get easier and you will also have more time to dedicate to yourself. If you keep a clean diet and drink a lot of water together with some easy exercise such as walking or yoga, you will be back to your normal self in no time!
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