My Postpartum Body Transformation

Nearly 12 weeks ago I gave birth to my first son, Lochlan Ryan Clark.  Lochlan was born May 5, 2014 at 1:24 am. He weighed 7lbs and 9oz.

                                                  

Look at those lips!!! 

He truly is the best thing that has ever happened to me and now more than ever I am determined to have my health in check so that I can be my best for my son.

The first 4 weeks after coming home from the hospital was all about my recovery while loving, nurturing, and providing for my sweet boy.  Walking around the house put enough stress on my postpartum body and when I had free time... I slept.  Labor is extremely taxing on your body and one of the best pieces of advice I took to heart from other parents was to sleep when baby sleeps.

I gained about 32 pounds over the course of my pregnancy.  I was ecstatic when I lost the first 20 pounds within just a couple of days. I thought that it would be easy breezy to lose the rest.

You vs. Cravings...The Great Battle

I recently wrote this blog for FOR TWO FITNESS, a company that sells maternity fitness clothing and helps moms-to-be have a healthy and fit pregnancy.  You can check out their company here  http://fortwofitness.com/blog/

Many of you may know by now that I am expecting my first baby next spring!  Danny and I are excited about this new adventure of parenthood and we cannot wait to meet our little guy (That is right, we are having a boy!!).  I am 22 weeks along now and I have to admit pregnancy is not what I had expected.

There are a lot of myths out there when it comes to pregnancy and nutrition.  I have heard from dozens that I can "eat for two" or to "listen to the baby; baby will tell you what you need".  For many women these myths can lead to massive, out of control cravings that can take control of their food intake (and life) while pregnant.  As we all know, most women already struggle with cravings before pregnancy.  Add in an increase need for nutrients and astronomically high levels of estrogen and good old fashioned will power becomes totally ineffective.  Averting cravings while pregnant can be difficult but it is possible with a little nutrition and psychology 101.

First, let's talk about nutrition...the physical part of cravings.