Breastfeeding and Weight Loss
One question we often hear people ask is if breastfeeding can help with weight loss and the answer is quite surprising. Although breastfeeding does burn extra calories and some mothers notice a decrease in their weight, several factors could still influence whether and how much weight is lost. In this article, we will shed some light on this topic and discuss how and under what circumstances breastfeeding can assist with postpartum weight loss.
Studies on Breastfeeding Weight Loss
Although the effects of breastfeeding are different for every mother, some studies suggest it does indeed help with weight loss, but it is not a guarantee. When you are exclusively breastfeeding, your body burns extra calories to produce your breast milk. This can help you burn about 500 to 700 calories per day though this is not a sure thing and varies from mother to mother.
Is This a Long-Term Solution?
Though breastfeeding may give you a jump start to your weight loss journey during postpartum, it is not a long-term fix. Since there is no guarantee that breastfeeding will speed up weight loss and in some cases, some moms see no change during feeding at all, it is beneficial to find a diet and workout regimen best suited for you while managing a newborn. You may notice an increase in appetite while breastfeeding which is normal during this time but be advised that eating more calories than you’re burning can cause weight gain and retention. With this in mind, what other factors could contribute to weight retention?
Weight Loss and Weight Gain Factors
According to Medical News Today, you will often lose about 10 lbs after birth and then a few more in the following first week. However, according to Medical News Today, the amount of time it takes for you to drop the unwanted weight can be dependable on a few factors: the amount of weight gained during pregnancy, physical activity levels, eating habits, as well as the amount of breast milk produced all play a role in dropping post baby weight. New moms also deal with sleep deprivation, fatigue, stress, and other aspects that can make it difficult to lose weight. Please do not be discouraged by the amount of time you feel it may take to shed the unwanted weight gain, as it is different for every mother and is natural.
Final Thoughts
It is essential to remember that every woman’s postpartum journey is unique and although breastfeeding can support weight loss for some, it is not guaranteed for all. This is because other factors like sleep quality, nutrition, and lifestyle could still play a significant role. By speaking to a lactation consultant or dietician, you can receive personalized recommendations to support your weight loss goals. To learn more about the best foods for breastfeeding moms, feel free to follow this link to a previous article where we talk about it in more detail. We hope this article has been helpful and that you have enjoyed reading and found it informative. Don’t forget to share with friends!
References
“Breastfeeding and Weight Loss: Why It May or May Not Happen.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-breastfeeding-help-you-lose-weight. Accessed 23 Oct. 2024.
Bellefonds, Colleen de. “Losing Weight While Breastfeeding: Research, Challenges, and Tips.” BabyCenter, 7 Apr. 2022, www.babycenter.com/baby/postpartum-health/will-breastfeeding-help-me-lose-weight_8900.
