Is it true what they say that if you breastfeed it can help loose the pregnancy weight?

Question

Has anyone found this to be true?

Answer 1

yes and yes. and its better for you and the baby...  

Answer 2

Yes, because your body needs more calories. If you don't eat enough you will lose weight. However to sustain the needs of your baby and breastfeeding you need to eat more because calories are also going to the baby.

Answer 3

It was certainly true for me both times.  With both my children I dropped the pregnancy weight quickly (within three months of birth) and I did absolutely nothing to try and lose the weight, but I did nurse on demand.

Answer 4

Your body burns up to 500 calories a day just in making breastmilk and as long as you continue with a 2000 calorie a day or less diet, then it's possible to lose weight just by breastfeeding alone.  Plus it helps the uterus to shrink back quicker thus lessening bleeding and can sometimes work as a birth control by inhibiting ovulation (don't 100% rely on that, though).

Answer 5

Breastfeeding is by far the best way (unless you smoke or drink a lot then you need to talk to your doc) but as the weight loss thing, it all depends on your body.  I breastfed both of my daughters and while it burns calories while breastfeeding, I was horribly hungry every time I breastfed.  So for me, no weight came off, I am sure it would have if I had chosen the right foods and such, but I didn't.  And I didn't loose anything.

Good luck on your upcoming baby.  Breastfeeding is by far easier and cheaper and more convenient.

Lindy

Answer 6

Yes, your body burns more calories daily making the milk to support your baby. This is why you drop the preggo wieght a bit faster.

Answer 7

i have heard it over and over that u do lose it but all women are different i did not lose any weight but the next girl who breast feeds might. just depends on the woman

Answer 8

I did. Lost 30 or 40 lbs in 3 weeks

RN  

Answer 9

I think it depends on the woman. i know that breast feeding helps shrink the uterus, thats why when you are breast feeding a few days after the birth you should experience some cramping.  this is probably why some people say it helps you lose weight.

Good luck