Im breastfeeding & need to lose 40lbs, I know I can't cut calories because it affects my milk supply! What's the best approach? I have til September!
Thank you everyone!! I've been logging my calories on my fitness pal app on iPhone! I've also been doing Zumba & stroller strides! I need to start adding some weights! I would love to see a nutritionist & follow a meal plan but can't afford to see one!
Weight Watchers has a program for breast feeding mothers. It is the same as their regular program but BF mothers get extra daily points. I have heard it works.
Watch how you are getting your calories. There is no reason or need to fill your body with sugary desserts, chips, pretzels, breads etc. Eat lots of fruit, vegetables and protein.
40% fat-40% carbs(whole grains, fruits and veggies)-20% protein
Don't drink juice, eat sugar, pasta, potatoes, white rice, etc
No low fat or non fat foods, no artificial sweetners, no coffee, alcohol or soda
Good luck-I know it's difficult!
Actually you can cut calories while breastfeeding. Even the Leche League says it's safe as long as you stay within so many calories. For a breastfeeding mother to lose weight and not affect milk supply you just need to eat between 1400 and 1800 calories a day. Going less than 1400 can affect your milk so as long as you stay above that you're good. This is what I did after each baby (I have 3 kids) to shed those pregnancy lbs. So just right down everything you eat with the calorie count and keep track throughout the day. And for things that don't have the calorie info just type it in on line. There are a few good sites on the web that has calorie info on everything. So just keep track and you'll get that 40 off! :)
the best way to do it is in three simple steps - first, pay attention to what(and how much) you're eating, just make good choices and sensible portions; second, do your best to drink water, and LOTS of it, drinking all kinds of sodas/juices/flavored waters is the easiest way to consume large quantities of garbage calories and not even realize it; third, slowly and steadily introduce a little more movement into your routine - start slowy and increase at a comfortable rate to reduce burn out. good luck!
One thing that helped me was to not eat anything after dinner/7pm. Also being relentless in terms of finding a way to be active that I could stick with and do 4-5 times a week. As others have said, it is in the end about calories and activity. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you are eating well and exercising (and slimming down) you might not see the weight coming off in terms of the scale, but do see more balanced proportions, changing clothing size and improved energy etc. That too is awesome! Best of luck.
It's a matter of balancing the number of calories you need with the number you consume. You may be able to cut calories if you're consuming more than you and the baby need. I don't know of an easy way to find that number. I suggest you first keep track of how many calories you're consuming and then gradually cut down the number until you find the spot where your milk supply is still enough.
Yes, to J C.'s post. Just by eating healthy foods you will be limiting your caloric intake.
I suggest that the LaLeche League may have some ideas.
