how does breastfeeding help shrink the mothers stomach Breastfeeding your baby causes your uterus to contract, which helps it shrink back to its prepregnancy size. When the baby is nursing, oxytocin (sometimes called the "love hormone") is released. This hormone causes the uterus to contract as well as helping with the milk letdown reflex.
Studies have shown that breastfeeding Mothers lose weight faster after the baby is born. This is because breastfeeding increases the metabolism and uses up calories. Interestingly, 8 pounds of the weight gained during pregnancy is for the sole purpose of lactation. This fat is laid down on the thighs. Breastfeeding helps shrink the mothers stomach but also the other areas that gained fat.
Breastfeeding burns around 500 calories a day! It is important not to diet during breastfeeding - eat nutritious foods until you are full, snack on healthy snacks and get frequent exercise if you want to lose weight. Crash dieting and fast weight loss is not appropriate for the nursing Mom. If you need help planning healthy meals, try Healthy Menu Mailer.
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