
Intermittent Fasting After Giving Birth: Is It Safe And Effective?
Giving birth is a life-changing event and the recovery process can be tough. Many new mums are keen to get back in shape and lose the postpartum weight but some may wonder if intermittent fasting is a safe and effective way to do so.
What Is Intermittent Fasting?
Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern which involves alternating between periods of eating and fasting. There are several protocols for intermittent fasting for women, and the best option for postpartum women is a variation on the 16:8 protocol, which involves eating for 8 hours and fasting for 16 hours.
The Benefits Of Intermittent Fasting For Postpartum Women
Intermittent fasting can do wonders if followed correctly! Yes, intermittent fasting is good and safe for postpartum weight loss. It can help you lose weight quickly without leaving you feeling deprived or exhausted. Intermittent fasting can also help you reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and increase your energy levels.
When Is The Right Time To Start Intermittent Fasting?
I recommend waiting until 4 months when most women have a supply established. Do not go back to work full time, start pumping and IF at the same time. This is because the body needs time to adjust to the demands placed on it.
Intermittent Fasting While Breastfeeding
Divya Harjai who is a mother to 9-month-old Avyuktha is following intermittent fasting to lose postpartum weight. In an exclusive interview with her, she shared that she follows the 16:8 protocol, eating for 8 hours and then fasting for 16 hours.
“Intermittent fasting for weight loss while breastfeeding will not harm the baby as long as you continue regular feedings,” says Bruce K. Young, MD, a board-certified general and pediatrician.
How To Successfully Lose Postpartum Weight With Intermittent Fasting
I put on 33lbs during pregnancy but lost it all by the time my baby was six months old. Instead of a calorie-controlled diet plan I started intermittent fasting. During my fasting period, I drank plenty of water and herbal teas. I also made sure to eat nutritious meals during my eating window.
Tips For New Mothers
Dieting isn’t generally recommended for the first 6-8 weeks after giving birth when your milk supply is most sensitive to dietary changes. By the 3-6 month mark, you can start to focus on healthy eating and intermittent fasting. But moms that are breastfeeding or pregnant should not restrict their eating. You need the extra nutrients and calories to feed your baby! If you have any concerns, consult your healthcare provider before starting intermittent fasting.
Intermittent fasting can be an effective way to lose postpartum weight, but it needs to be done in a safe and healthy way. Make sure to do your research and consult your healthcare provider before starting. When done correctly, intermittent fasting can help you reach your weight-loss goals without sacrificing your energy levels or your milk supply.
Can intermittent fasting be beneficial for postpartum weight reduction?
Postpartum women can benefit from a variety of intermittent fasting protocols, such as 16:8, 15:9, 14:10, or 12:12. This involves eating during an 8 (or 9, 10, or 12) hour window and fasting for the remaining hours of the day.
Does fasting on a regular basis reduce a mother’s milk production?
If you are nursing, it is usually not recommended to practice intermittent fasting because it could lead to a lack of calories which can affect your milk supply and energy level. Both of these are not good for breastfeeding moms.
Is it safe for breastfeeding mothers to practice intermittent fasting?
If you are breastfeeding and want to try intermittent fasting, it is best to wait until your milk supply is fully set at around six to eight weeks postpartum. Although your milk supply should be stable at this point, some women may still experience a drop in supply.
What are some methods I can use to shed pounds quickly following childbirth?
Promotion of Fasting Books
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