Kapanlagi.com - Many new mothers feel less confident about their bellies that are still bloated after giving birth. But don't worry, this phenomenon is very normal! During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles undergo significant stretching, coupled with drastic hormonal changes.
Interestingly, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for the uterus and belly to return to their original shape.
However, don't fret! There are several simple steps you can try without needing to engage in intense exercise or follow a strict diet. By regularly applying these tricks, you can easily regain your confidence.
So, what are the effective tips for reducing a bloated belly after giving birth? Let's check out the interesting information below, summarized by Kapanlagi.com from various sources on Tuesday (21/1)!
1. Light Exercise to Tighten Abdominal Muscles
Before starting the journey to reduce a bulging belly without having to do heavy exercise, the first step you can try is to perform light movements to support recovery. Some simple exercises such as pelvic bridge, forearm plank, and reverse crunch can be ideal choices, as they focus on strengthening the abdominal muscles without putting excessive pressure.
To achieve optimal results, perform these exercises gradually and increase the intensity slowly. In addition to helping tighten the abdominal muscles, this physical activity also improves blood circulation, prevents postpartum depression, and enhances sleep quality.
Make sure to consult with a doctor about the right time to start exercising after giving birth. As stated by Siloam Hospitals, postpartum physical exercise not only strengthens muscles but also improves cardiorespiratory fitness, reduces stress, and helps you return to your ideal weight before pregnancy.
2. Healthy Eating Patterns for a Flatter Stomach
Restoring the shape of your stomach after nine months of pregnancy can be an enjoyable journey by adopting a healthy eating pattern! Try to avoid saturated fats and high-sugar foods, and instead, increase your intake of green vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, and quality protein sources.
Don’t forget, drinking plain water before meals can help curb your appetite, while probiotics will support digestive health and reduce belly fat. For breastfeeding mothers, it is important to meet daily calorie needs of about 1,800 to 2,200 calories from nutritious foods such as complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber.
Avoid extreme diets that can actually make you feel tired and slow down postpartum recovery. Focus on a balanced diet that not only maintains your health but also provides the best nutrition for your little one!
3. Breastfeeding as a Natural Way to Burn Calories
Breastfeeding is not just about providing the best nutrition for your little one, but it also becomes a secret for mothers to lose weight in a natural and enjoyable way! During the breastfeeding process, mothers can burn up to 500 calories each day, while also stimulating uterine contractions that help speed up the process of returning the belly to its original size.
Mothers who exclusively breastfeed for three months tend to experience a more significant weight loss compared to those who do not breastfeed. Not only that, breastfeeding also stimulates the production of oxytocin, which plays an important role in returning the uterus to its original size.
In other words, breastfeeding is the perfect way to slim down your belly while providing love and the best nutrition for your little one!
4. Corsets and Wraps to Help with Belly Recovery
After giving birth, the use of a corset can be a true friend for mothers who want to restore the firmness of their abdominal muscles and improve their posture. By providing gentle pressure, the corset helps the abdominal muscles return to their original position while alleviating the swelling that often accompanies childbirth.
Not only that, traditional remedies like tapel—made from a mixture of rice flour and spices—can be applied to the abdomen to speed up recovery.
Tapel is known to be effective in reducing swelling, improving skin elasticity, and enhancing blood circulation. However, remember to wear the corset comfortably and avoid excessive pressure to ensure smooth breathing and prevent the body from feeling strained.
5. Herbal Drinks to Burn Belly Fat
Green tea has become a favorite for those looking to slim down their belly, thanks to its content of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which can accelerate fat burning, especially in the belly area. However, do not forget the wonders of other herbal drinks, such as the infusion of cat's whiskers leaves, which helps detoxify the body and smooth digestion.
By regularly consuming this herbal tea, especially in the morning, you can support your weight loss efforts while maintaining your body's health. To enhance the enjoyment and health benefits, try adding honey or ginger to your tea!
6. Is it normal for the stomach to remain bloated after giving birth?
Of course, this is a normal thing! The abdominal muscles and uterus need time to return to their original size after undergoing changes.
7. How long does it take for the stomach to flatten after giving birth?
This process generally takes between 6 to 8 weeks, depending on lifestyle and level of physical activity.
8. What are the best exercises to reduce the stomach after giving birth?
Exercises such as pelvic bridge, forearm plank, and mountain climber are not just movements, but also powerful tools to tighten your abdominal muscles.
9. Does breastfeeding help reduce the stomach?
Breastfeeding not only provides nutrition for the little one, but also serves as an effective calorie burner, capable of burning up to 500 calories each day!
10. Are corsets effective in reducing a bulging belly?
Corsets are not just a fashion accessory; they also serve as an effective tool for tightening abdominal muscles and improving posture. However, to achieve the best results, combining the use of corsets with a regular exercise routine is the key.
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Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.