Why is it harder to lose weight postpartum?
Removing the basic ‘calories in vs calories out’ from the equation, simply, yes, it CAN be harder to loose fat postpartum.
Like anything, this isn’t the case for everyone but from a generalist perspective, the answer is yes.
Why?
Postpartum women, by the very nature of early motherhood have a plethora of variables which work against them. Two main players in weight loss are appetite regulation and energy output; both of these things are hard to control when faced with the following;
Sleep deprivation: this can effect pretty much every function in the body and with sleep being such an imperative need to our survival, the body works by increasing the hunger hormones Ghrelin and decrease the satiety hormone leptin. Remember, our body is constantly working to ensure our survival.
Breastfeeding: especially in the early days is hungry work and can increase your appetite from peckish to ravenous within moments. Believe me when I say breastfeeding hunger is another level!
A general decrease in activity levels. This can be for a number of reasons from recovery, low energy (hey lack of sleep), a nursing/feeding baby strapped to you, lack of time to exercise…the list goes on.
Increased stress: the 3 points above can lead to increased stress levels, let alone the worry, anxiety, poor self image and guilt that comes with Motherhood. It is important not to downplay this last point as a major road block in weight loss postpartum, addressing this is just as important as every other variable.
How would I advise you to tackle postpartum weight loss?
Keep your nutrition simple
Prioritise whole foods
Limit processed foods
Stay on top of your hydration
Protein, fats and carbs; you need them all.
Meal plan
Move your goal posts. You are not starting from the same place you were before so your end goal might be in a different direction. The same HIIT workouts which felt great before may no longer serve you, likewise with nutrition; you might have always trained fasted but now to you need to take on some calories to perform at your best.
Wait; there is no societal timeline you need to abide by. Coming from a place of respect opposed to guilt will help you to make more rational choices. Let those newborn days and sleepless nights ride out before you add to your stress load. There is no rush.
