Where do I Start?

[ConnersMom03]

So what is the biggest thing that has helped you with your weight loss?  The way you eat?  Exercise?  Etc.  My baby is now 6 weeks old and I want to start getting in shape (as long as at my 6 week check up my dr gives me the go-ahead).  But I am lost as to where to start or what will make the biggest difference.  I would love to get back into running, but may have to start walking first??  I had a c-section and am formula feeding.  So any advice would be very helpful!  Thanks!

[Snu]

Exercise and healthy eating are important, but to lose weight, watching what you eat is even more crucial than exercise.  Why, you ask?  Because even if you didn't exercise, you can lose weight by restricting calories. 

BUT if you eat like a mad woman, with no restraint, no amount of exercise will make up for that.  Example: I can scarf down a Snickers in a half minute, and it would take me a half hour or so to burn it off.  See what I mean?

I would go online to find out how many cals you need to take in to lose weight.  Since you're not breastfeeding, I am guessing that consuming 1400 to 1600 cals. would help you lose weight.  Because of the C-section, I would say ask your doc about what exercise you can do.  Perhaps just brisk walking right now? 

Once you get the okay, you could exercise in the house with hand/ankle weights, a stair stepper, trampoline, etc... (I'm assuming it is winter where you are, when exercising outside is somewhat difficult, especially with a new baby.)

Eat healthy foods like: 100% whole wheat bread, bagels, pasta.. brown rice... lean meats/fish... fruits/veggies... low-fat calcium foods like milk, yogurt, cheese... and healthy fats like nuts, peanut butter, avocado, olives/olive oil.

And occasional treats, of course!

[gymgirl]

I am not sure of the diet while you are breastfeeding. But I to had a c-section and I know fast walking and ab exercises like vacuums help with getting the stomach firmer.

Food is very important. I was overweight and started doing cardio and weights and eat 4-5 small meals a day and lost 50lbs. I would consult your doctor on how many cals you need and go from there. I do say get that protein in. Protein does wonders for the body. I get one at every meal.

[Turb0Happy]

Well first, congratulations on your new little one! 

I totally agree about eating frequently (5-6 small meals a day) with sensible food choices.  I read in several places that weight-loss is 80% what you eat. (at least!)

For exercise I would start out with a good brisk walk daily and work your way back up to running if that's what you're aiming for.  On coolrunning.com they have a beginner running program called the Couch to 5K that gets rave reviews.

Keep us updated on your progress!

[ConnersMom03]

Thanks guys for the helpful advise!  I am trying to do better and have a lot to go on now.  Thanks again!