breastfeeding and trying to lose weight

amestre

I have a 4 month old and am exclusively breastfeeding her. I have been working out for 4 weeks, averaging 5 days a week, for 30 -60 minutes per workout. I have been moderately watching what I'm eating, no cray diet sinc I'm nursing. I think I have lost somewhere between 2-3 lbs. What is the problem?!?! I would really like to drop some weight, but don't want to quit nursing either. Any advice?

rebecca_d35

How much are you looking to lose?

I know some people just can't drop the last few pounds until they wean. I lost weight like crazy while nursing, but I was also walking a lot (enjoying a spring maternity leave). Definitely don't cut calories to the point where your supply suffers. I probably ate about 2,300 calories a day while breastfeeding and lost almost all the weight.

Also, my weight loss really sped up when my kids were around 4-8 months. That's when they were still getting all their food from me, and were eating a TON. You might be on the cusp of seeing a big change.

mhotch

I don't think the calorie difference is huge. It may be only 2-300 extra a day. {but don't hold me to that number} I would talk to your pediatrician. Keep the diet healthy, plenty of liquids. and follow the MD's advice .

the1end

I think there are some people who drop weight quickly while breastfeeding but then others who hold onto some fat *until* they stop. Unfortunately you can't control which type you are so you should just keep doing what you are doing - focus on eating healthy, getting your exercise in, and keeping your supply up so that your baby is growing. I know it is frustrating but in the long term you are doing what is best for you and your baby and it will pay off!

Good luck,
Erin

Chantal34

I had this problem last year when I was nursing. Breastfeeding actually caused me to GAIN weight.

sebbysmommy

I am one of those people who just can not lose weight while breastfeeding. I however drop super fast once I wean. My littlest is 11mths and in the process of self weaning so I am waiting for a 30lb drop next month :laugh:

My tip is to make sure you stay between 1,500-1,800 calories a day and drink TONS of water

yesthistime

Breastfeeding groups:

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/search?phrase=breastfeeding&order=0

Mandathehillbilly

Don't give up breastfeeding I dont start losing weight with breastfeeding until around that point then things get easier. I am currently breastfeeding my 22 month old though im struggling with weight loss now cause of it. But it was easy up til around 12-15 months old. Breastfeeding is kind of nice in that even on days you dont feel like exercising, you still get a caloric burn thanks to babe

Stephanie2167

The weight did not just fall off me when I was nursing. If you've lost 2-3 pounds in 4 weeks, that's awesome. That means if you continue what your doing you could be down 6-9 pounds in 12 weeks. I'd be happy with that. Especially since you want to keep your milk suppply up too.