Having a baby is a life- and body-changing experience. If you are one of the 25 percent of women who had a Cesarean section, excess belly fat can be a problem. Obtaining a flat midsection may seem impossible, but with disciplined exercise and eating, you can lose the belly fat after a C-section.
Instructions
1. Obtain clearance from your doctor before beginning any post-surgery exercise. Doctors usually ask patients who have undergone a C-section to wait at least 6 weeks before participating in any strenuous exercise, lifting or stretching. Your muscles have been cut and need time to heal.
2. Remove all the junk food from your house and commit to eating healthfully. If you are breastfeeding, do not skimp on your meals and diet in terms of restricting calories. Focus your diet on healthy options such as fresh fruit and vegetables, lean meats such as chicken and fish, whole grains such as whole wheat bread and brown rice, yogurts and low-fat cheese. Drink plenty of water as well to support healing and detoxification.
3. Commit to an exercise routine. Once your doctor has said its OK for you to exercise, focus on cardiovascular, calorie-burning exercises such as power walking (maybe with your stroller), jogging and cycling. Perform these at least three times a week for 30 minutes or more. These types of exercises help you lose overall body fat and improve the appearance of your belly. After four to six months, add in specific exercises to target and tone your midsection. Pilates and yoga help you relax from your hectic life as a new mom and focus training on the core of your body.
4. Breastfeed your baby if you can. The process of breastfeeding burns extra calories and speeds up the shrinking of the uterus, helping deflate your belly. Remember that nutrition and hydration must be top priorities if you are able to breastfeed.
5. Be patient. It took at least nine months to put on the extra weight. Do not expect it to disappear overnight. The best way to lose weight and keep it off is through diligent, consistent dietary changes and exercise. Commit to these for life, and your belly will deflate.
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