Can Breastfeeding Help Me Lose Weight?
There is no doubt that breastfeeding is good for both mom and baby. Not only does it provide all the nutrients a newborn needs, but breastfeeding has also been linked with a number of health benefits for mothers. One such benefit is weight loss. Keep reading to learn more!
Believe it or not, breastfeeding can help new moms lose those stubborn pounds they may have gained during pregnancy.
There is a lot of conflicting information out there about whether breastfeeding helps mothers lose weight. Some people believe that it does, while others think that it doesn’t make much of a difference.
In the end, it really depends on the woman and her body.
Some women have reported losing all their weight while breastfeeding, while some report not being able to lose the last 5-10 pounds until they wean their child.
However, there are connections between breastfeeding and losing weight.
Burns Calories
Breastfeeding can help you lose weight because it burns calories. In fact, breastfeeding can burn up to 500 calories a day! That means that if you breastfeed for just one hour, you can burn the same amount of calories as you would by running for 30 minutes.
Helps shrink your uterus
Additionally, breastfeeding can help shrink your uterus back to its pre-pregnancy size and shape. It is believed that the hormone oxytocin, which is released during breastfeeding, helps the uterus to contract which in turns helps it go back to its pre-pregnancy size.
Provides your body with nutrients
Another way that breastfeeding can help you lose weight is by providing your body with the nutrients it needs to function properly.
Breast milk is packed with nutrients like protein, fat, and carbohydrates, which are essential for a healthy diet. When you breastfeed, your body is able to absorb these nutrients more effectively than if you were to formula feed.
Reduces stress levels
Finally, breastfeeding can help reduce stress levels, which can lead to weight gain.
When you breastfeed, your body releases the hormone oxytocin, which has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. This can help you stay on track with your diet and exercise plan and avoid overeating or making unhealthy choices.
Should I breastfeed to lose weight?
Be sure to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before starting any weight loss plan, and remember to always listen to your body. Breastfeeding is a unique experience for every mother, so do what feels right for you and your baby.
More Articles You May Enjoy:
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- High Lipase Breast Milk: Why Your Breast Milk Tastes Gross (and What You Can Do)
- How often should you breastfeed a one-year-old?
- The Best Nursing Friendly Swim Suits
