Weight loss while breast-feeding
You may lose weight gradually while breast-feeding without trying. The rate and ease of weight loss varies widely among individuals. Some women find that it takes up to a year to lose the weight they gained during pregnancy.
If you wish to lose weight while breast-feeding, both diet and physical activity have a role. Physical activity or exercise is the safest way to lose weight during this time. Moderate calorie restriction (eating less) may be safe for some overweight women, but breast-feeding women should generally eat at least 1,800 calories a day and should be especially careful to eat balanced, nutritious meals with adequate calcium. Typically, you will gradually lose about 1 lb (0.5 kg) to 2 lb (0.9 kg) per week. Extreme weight-loss diets should be avoided while breast-feeding.
Talk to a nutritional counselor, registered dietitian, or your doctor about a safe, healthy weight-loss diet.
| Author: | Kathe Gallagher, MSW | Last Updated: May 10, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine | |
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