It’s only been about a month since I’ve given birth but I can’t say that I haven’t thought about losing weight. This time around I lost all the weight I gained immediately upon giving birth which was the first time that’s ever happened. I’d like to say that it was due to a super healthy diet and working out consistently during my pregnancy but that’s just not true. My diet and activity levels always leave room for improvement.
As I mentioned, it’s only been about a month since I’ve given birth so I know that I can’t push my body too hard. Instead it’s more about doing good things for my body that will in turn help me feel good about my body both physically and mentally.
1) Breastfeed. It has long been said that breastfeeding helps you lose weight and I can say first hand that it does. Breastfeeding can burn a whooping 300-500 calories a day and as long as you’re not eating those extra calories you will lose weight, at the very least you should be able to maintain and not gain. Not only will you lose weight but you’ll also enjoy a lot of special moments with your baby. Whether you’re breastfeeding or not the next three things are going to make a huge difference in this whole losing weight thing!
2) Eat Healthy. When it comes to losing weight one of the best things you can do for yourself is to eat healthy. While exercise is essential so much of losing weight is about eating well and not eating too much. Get rid of the crazy processed foods, keep healthy snacks around the house so you don’t end up hungry during those middle of the night wake ups and snacking on things that aren’t good for you. And most of all? When you have a craving fulfill it. Bonus points if you find a health(ier) alternative.
4) Stay Hydrated. My goal is always to drink a gallon of water a day, that very often doesn’t happen but at least I try right!? Your body needs water so making sure that you’re drinking enough water will help your body preform at it’s optimal level. I always find that my weight loss is highest when I’m drinking a ton of water.
4) Change a Meal. Another thing I’ve been doing since early in my postpartum recovery was changing one meal a day (typically breakfast in my case) to a smoothie. A lot of times I make it at home but I can’t help but grab a smoothie from Smoothie King when I’m out and about too. Since I’m breastfeeding, staying full for longer periods of time can be hard for me I tend to go with the high protein options. I love the High Protein Almond Mocha. Not only is it delicious but it also has coffee in it and mama needs coffee!
My favorite thing about grabbing a smoothie from Smoothie King is that all the #ChangeaMeal smoothies are under 400 calories based on the 20oz serving (a small), have a minimum of 10 grams of protein and 35 grams of quality carbs. The high protein and fiver helps to keep you full for longer which is essential when you’re changing a meal.
When you just had a baby grabbing a smoothie can be a quick and easy way to fill you up AND help you lose weight. I call that a mom win.
Head to the change a meal website to sign up for the Change a Meal challenge. You’ll be entered to win prizes like smoothies for a year, a gift card to Southwest Airlines, a YMCA membership and more. You’re entered to win every time you post a #changeameal smoothie selfie.
Get your first change a meal smoothie for just $2.99. You can also earn rewards every time you get a smoothie with the free loyalty app.
Bonus Way to help you lose weight?
Chase after some kids all day. Cliche. I know. But the more kids I have the more true it becomes. It’s hard not to stay active when you have kids.
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