How Can I Lose Weight After a C- Section?

Delivery by Cesarean section (C-section) is invasive surgery that requires weeks to months of recovery time. Losing weight after a C-section can be a challenge due to the restrictions placed on movement for fear of tearing or traumatizing the affected area.

Breastfeed

Breastfeeding can help you to burn more calories and lose weight after a C-section. Studies have shown that you can burn up to 500 extra calories daily if you choose to breastfeed for the first 4 to 6 months after giving birth. After that, weight loss may slow, but not necessarily stop. Since a pound of fat contains 3,500 calories, you can lose up to one pound of fat per week by breastfeeding alone. One to two pounds per week is the optimal amount to lose to ensure you will maintain weight loss.

Diet

After a C-section, avoid eating foods that give you gas or cause bloat. Stomach pain may exacerbate the tissue that was damaged by the C-section surgery. For this reason, eating cabbage, onions and beans may not be in your best interests to lose weight. Try eating food that contains protein and is slower to digest such as chicken, fish and lean steak. Low-calorie soups will help you to lose fat as well. In addition, add non-gassy fruits and vegetables such as grapes, watermelon, berries, peaches, green beans, spinach, carrots, asparagus, mushroom and squash. Drink two liters of water daily to increase fullness and flush fat.

Exercise

According to pregnancy-info.net, you should wait for 8 weeks after having a C-section before beginning an exercise program. Begin a light exercise program that includes stretching, yoga, walking, and swimming. These exercises are less likely to exacerbate any still sensitive tissue that has been damaged by C-section surgery. Start walking or swimming 10 to 15 minutes daily and work up to 30 minutes per day, up to four days per week. Include yoga or stretching exercises for 5 to 15 minutes, two to four days per week as well. Pay special attention to any pain you might feel during exercise, and consult a doctor if you experience abdominal discomfort. Consult with your doctor before beginning an exercise program after C-section surgery.