As new mamas it is natural to be affected by the postnatal fat-shaming trend and the pressure to get rid of pregnancy weight in record time. Do you remember the vicious comment about Kate Middleton when she appeared in public sporting a post-partum tum a mere day after giving birth to prince George? “What’s left in there?” were some of the nicer tweets!

But is this realistic - or even healthy - to slimdown after pregnancy with such lightening speed? Experts agree on a resounding “NO”!

For nine months, the food that you ate fuelled you and your baby. However, after giving birth nutrition is just as important.

We often forget that our bodies are in recovery after giving birth – not just for a few days or weeks, but for a few months. And restricting nutrient intake can be detrimental to your milk supply, physical recovery, and energy levels.

 Significantly reducing overall carbohydrate intake – the go-to weight loss strategy for many women – is not your best bet postpartum. Carbs are necessary for new moms.

First of all, carbohydrates give you energy (important when you need to feed, cuddle, and sooth your baby for the fourth time in the middle of the night). Also, if you’re breastfeeding and restricting calories, your fatty-acid pattern of milk can decrease. Fatty-acids are recognised as a nutrient fundamental to the development of your baby’s central nervous system, brain, and vision.

So, how much should you eat? In the months after childbirth most new moms need between 1 800 and 2 200 calories each day. Nursing? You’ll need up to 500 calories more.

A healthy, balanced postpartum diet is a key factor in recovering from childbirth as well as losing weight. Fill half your plate at every meal with fruit and vegetables. The other half should include whole grains such as brown rice, wholegrain bread, or oatmeal.

Try to limit packaged or processed foods and drinks that are high in salt, saturated fats and added sugars.

You’ll also need enough:

• Protein such as beans, lean meats and eggs. Aim for five servings each day, or seven if you’re breastfeeding.
• Calcium: You’ll need three servings of low-fat dairy each day.
• Iron: Red meat and poultry are important especially if you’ve lost a lot of blood during delivery.

Eating well, prioritising sleep, and adjusting to life as a new mama should be your focus. If you stick to a healthy diet, start walking with your baby in the stroller, and if you’re breastfeeding on top of that, the weight will shift in no time.

Remember ladies, your body created, nurtured and performed phenomenally to give birth to an astonishing human being; don’t be ashamed to carry some of that for a while.

It's time, new mama, to be proud, to love and embrace all of you. And that rounder booty? It’s hot. Period.

Source: fitpregnancy.com, parent24.com, girlsgonestrong.com, babycentre.co.uk, dailymail.co.uk, globalnews.ca, harpersbazaar.com, glamour.com, mom365.com, babble.com, webmd.com, scarymommy.com, self.com, upmc.com, littleones.co, womenshealth.com.au, healthline.com  

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.