Realistic Weight Loss After Birth

Weight loss will not happen overnight, it takes nine months of pregnancy for your body to adapt and give birth, therefore it will take a similar length of time to recover and readjust.  You may want to lose weight quickly, but a weight loss of 0.5-1.0 Kg per week is recommended, and will require realistic habits that are easier to be made and kept. 

If you don’t reach your goal weight by a certain time, or if you have a ‘bad’ day, it doesn’t matter.  Just keep trying to lose weight slowly.  Some weeks it may just be harder than others.  Just try to think positively, and look for simple ways to push on.  You will get more time to yourself as your baby settles into a routine.

Tell your partner and friends that you are trying to lose some weight.  Ask them to support you, by:

• • Bringing around fruit or healthy foods, instead of chocolates, cakes and sweet drinks;
  • Avoiding takeaway foods;
  • Eating healthy dessert;
  • Joining you for a walk with the pram, or other exercise; and
  • Not eating fattening food that you love in front of you (try to keep it out of sight and preferably out of the house completely).

Temptation will make an already challenging task even tougher.  A healthy lifestyle is important for the entire family.

Always consult your doctor, midwife, or child health nurse before starting weight loss.  They may advise you to wait until your six week postnatal check up.

>> Tips for reaching a healthier weight >>

Go to the Ngala Healthy You Healthy Baby App
Track your health and wellbeing during pregnancy and during the early stages of your child's life as well as receive tips on how to improve or maintain your health. 

Further Information

• • Nutrition
  • Weight
  • Emotions
  • Social Life
  • Sleep
  • Physical Activity

Parenting Workshops

• • Managing a Toddler and a Baby
  • You and Your New Baby
  • Skilled Dads
  • Sleep and Your Baby

Ngala Books & DVDs

• • Secrets of Good Sleepers Book
  • Secrets of Good Eaters Book
  • Building Brains for Young Children 0-3 Years DVD

For families of babies and young children who reside or work in W.A.,
if you need further assistance contact the Ngala Helpline
Telephone 9368 9368 or Country Access 1800 111 546
8am to 8pm 7 days a week or

or get support online via the My Ngala Forums

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