Breastfeeding

• A typical nursing mother of a newborn needs an extra 500 calories a day just to nourish her baby. That means breastfeeding can be a great way to promote post-pregnancy weight loss. But don't go overboard with dieting while you're nursing; the baby really needs those calories, and a diet plan that is too strict may affect milk supply.
  
  

Healthy Eating Habits

• During the postpartum period, it may be especially difficult to maintain healthy eating habits. It's hard to find time to sit down and eat, let alone cook healthy meals. But for women who want to lose weight after pregnancy, it's important to maintain some basic nutritional standards. Keep a supply of fruits, vegetables and other healthy snacks available so you won't be tempted by junk food. Plan meals ahead of time, so you don't end up throwing a frozen pizza in the oven at the last minute.
  
  

Exercise

• Regular exercise not only helps with post-pregnancy weight loss, it can help alleviate postpartum depression. You may not be up to aerobic exercise right away, especially if you've had a C-section, but getting active as soon as you can is a good idea. Start out slowly, with daily walks or swimming. Walking is a good choice for many new mothers, since it is easy to bring your baby along in a stroller or carrier. Once you're comfortable with regular physical activity again, you can try additional workouts such as aerobics or lifting weights.