Tag Archives: post pregnancy diet

Looking to Shed Post-Baby Pounds on a Juice Cleanse? Think Again.

baby juice

New moms everywhere are following the recent trend of celebs like Fergie and Jessica Simpson who have shed post-baby weight by juice cleansing. Women inside and outside of Hollywood to lose weight are under pressure every day but are under special scrutiny to rush back to their pre-baby body. But is this dramatic weight loss safe for mamas and their new babies?

Today Shape Magazine posted about the popularity and potential harms of postpartum juice cleanses. Juice companies now market this new fad and have created specialized cleanse programs for these women. The verdict?

“No!” says Registered Dietitian Mary Hartley. “Don’t even attempt to diet until the baby is at least 8 weeks old.” New moms who breastfeed need at least 1600-1800 calories per day to get the nutrients both baby and mom need. Juice cleanses typically only provide about 1200 calories, and nursing moms need at least an extra 500 calories for breastfeeding alone according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. “After 8 weeks, to make sure the baby is growing well and mom is not excessively hungry, mom shouldn’t attempt to lose more than one pound a week,” cautions Hartley. Juice cleanses would shed pounds much too rapidly for any adult to sustain, let alone a nursing mother and her newborn. (more…)

Heidi Klum Diet and Fitness Secrets

Heidi KlumWe’re all saddened by the recent announcement that Heidi Klum is separating from her husband Seal, but we have to admit that she looks awesome. After 4 kids and 7 years of marriage, Klum can still rock the runway along with her many spokes model gigs anytime with her slamming figure. How does she do it? We did some digging to find out how she keeps her body in tip-top shape, even after several pregnancies.

Post Pregnancy Shape up

To get her figure back in just a couple months after giving birth, Klum used The Ultimate New York Body Plan, designed by personal trainer David Kirsch. This diet is strict and not for the faint of heart, but it works.

During the first two weeks, all foods that cause bloating are eliminated; this includes dairy, fruit and refined carbohydrates (carbs). After two weeks, fat-free dairy can be added back into the diet, but refined carbs are restricted throughout the diet timeline. Carbs with a low glycemic index such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains are allowed in small amounts. Alcohol, bread and starchy carbs are prohibited.

Proteins are a major ingredient. Good sources are lean meats, lentils and eggs. Klum often starts her day with a protein shake and then follows with an egg white and vegetable omelet a couple hours later. Nuts are allowed as a snack between meals.

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