Depending on how much weight you’ve gained during pregnancy, losing the weight once baby arrives could either be  relatively easy or a real challenge!

Weight gain varies greatly from one woman to the next. The general guideline for women of healthy weight prior to pregnancy, is to gain anywhere between 25 and 35 pounds.

There is no rush to lose the weight following the birth of your baby, in fact it’s advisable not to restrict your calorie intake for the first six weeks after the baby is born. If you plan to breast feed though, then restricting calories just isn’t possible. Let’s face it, the first few months postpartum are sleep-deprived and physically and emotionally draining, so this is no time to limit your main source of fuel and energy. Instead, you should focus on meeting daily nutrient and calorie requirements in order to provide optimal nutrition to your infant. Eat a healthy diet that provides important nutrients such as folic acid and calcium.

Studies do show however that women who don’t lose their baby weight within the first year, are more likely to hold on to the weight long term or even permanently.

So what’s a new mom to do?

Another added benefit to nursing, in addition to the nutrient and immunological benefits breast milk provides to the baby, is the extra calories breast feeding can help the mother burn. According to caloriecount.about.com, the average breast feeding woman loses 1 to 4 pounds per month without restricting their calorie intake. 

Whether you choose to nurse or not, integrating some light, regular exercise is one of the best ways to boost your energy levels and reclaim your pre-baby body.  Some women actually achieve a better body post pregnancy than before. The key is to stay motivated and to find an exercise program that you enjoy and can stick to.  Walking for 20 to 30 minutes every day is a great way to ease gently into a new exercise routine.  Investing in a jogging stroller will provide you with the added convenience of keeping your baby with you for a workout. Remember, when the weather doesn’t permit you to exercise outdoors, take full advantage of precious nap time to workout at home!

Getting enough sleep is imperative if you want to be an effective parent but it’s also an important component of successful weight loss. While a lack of sleep in the first few months is to be expected, it is important for both you and the baby to establish a regular sleeping pattern. If you don’t get enough sleep, not only will you be more tired, you’ll be more hungry, and have a tendency to crave “comfort” foods that are high in fat. Getting the recommended six hours of sleep can help you avoid gaining weight and support continued weight loss.