A Message For Mums

Even though the new member of your family requires your undivided attention and care, there is no need to neglect your own health. It is important that you eat a healthy diet, drink adequate fluids and exercise regularly. You may feel that this is not possible, but if you are organised and are positive anything is possible!

Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding your nutrition is as important as your baby’s. If you dont receive the appropriate nutrition, you will most likely become tired, because you may develop deficiencies and your immune system may become compromised.

If you would like to lose weight, remember that losing weight is very individual. Successful weight management requires long-term commitment to a healthy lifestyle not just for 2 weeks or 1 month. Now that you are a mum, it is vital for you to eat a healthy nutritious diet. You must never skip meals as you will need your energy to be able to offer your baby the best care.

Fad diets are not the way to go as they usually leave out very important nutrients and food groups. The key to weight management is simple. If you eat more than you require, then you will inevitably gain weight, if you eat a well balanced diet with an active lifestyle, you will maintain your weight. If you limit the high calorie foods to ‘sometimes’ and base your diet on low calorie and nutritious foods and increase your activity, you will lose weight. If you would like more information about successful weight management send me an email or contact your local dietitian. Author, Dianne Barker has some great books out and are available through the Resource Centre.