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With actresses and models showing their fabulous and thin post-pregnancy bodies just weeks after giving birth, all women want to know their secrets. Unfortunately, having the money for personal trainers, working out seven hours a day, or tummy-tucks are out of the question. So what, exactly, are the right steps to take to lose weight after childbirth?

The most common mistake made is wanting to diet right away. However, your body just went through a traumatic experience and needs time to recover. It is safe to wait six weeks, before beginning to watch your calorie intake and trying to slim down. If you are breastfeeding, ideally, you should wait two months. Adjusting to life with a newborn and your milk supply are your first two priorities. These can take all of your energy and piling weight loss on top of those tend to be too much for any mother. Plus, you will be surprised how much weight you will naturally lose from simply breastfeeding. It is, sometimes, difficult to accept the permanent changes childbirth has had on your body. Keep in mind, being a good and healthy mom is way more important than fitting into that size six you used to wear. Do not be too strict or too hard on yourself. When you begin to diet, try eating a little less and being more active. It can be as simple as taking a walk around the park with your baby in a stroller. This is something your baby and you can enjoy together. When eating less, do not go crazy. To stay healthy, women need an intake of, at least, 1,200 calories. Add in more low-fat, high-fiber foods and raw veggies. Choose whole-grain products and always eat breakfast. Skipping breakfast tends to slow your metabolism, which will in turn slow your weight loss. Also, drink more water. Many calories can hide themselves in sodas and juices. If you want juice, your best bet is to dilute it, cutting out some of the sugar.

On a daily basis you should consume 6 ounces of grains or starches, 2 cups of vegetables, 4-6 ounces of protein, 3 servings of low-fat dairy products, and 4 teaspoons of added vegetable fat. Learning how to eat healthy and being active are the two keys in losing weight, especially post-pregnancy.

Submitted on: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=1601006