Many Mums have cravings during pregnancy and also feel the need to eat for two. It's easy for the stomach to expand in size as a result of eating more during pregnancy. Having increased in size, more food is needed to feel full. If the stomach remains enlarged, this problem can continue after the baby is born and the extra pounds can soon become stones.



To avoid feeling hungry, it's important that the stomach reduces in size. Here is a simple plan to reduce the size of your stomach, gradually and healthily after pregnancy.

1. Strengthen tummy muscles gradually. It's not advisable to get straight into situps. These risk injury to the lower back, or even potential long term "doming" of the stomach. Pelvic tilts are the best way to get started. These are subtle, exercises that slowly strengthen the abdominal muscles. Pelvic tilts realign and strengthen the muscles, without risking long-term damage.

2. Plan meals and snacks for optimal nutrition. Getting the right levels of fibre, protein, carbohydrates and vegetables, minerals and nutrients speeds up fat loss. It also helps you feel more energetic and enables calories to be burned faster.

3. Slowly increase the amount of physical activity you engage in each day. The body is primed for weight loss between months two and nine after your baby arrives and will naturally seek to move back to previous levels. A regular daily walk, pushing your baby is a great way to get started. Even 10 minutes will help.

4. Many women feel an urge to drink alcohol again after pregnancy. After breast-feeding stops, the occasional glass is fine, although more than this will impact your efforts to lose the baby belly. Always make sure you drink 2-3 litres of filtered water each day. Water flushes out toxins and helps you feel fuller and more energetic, as well as look better

5. Eat plenty of green vegetables and as little processed food as possible. Fresh, live foods also reduce toxin levels, enabling you to feel and look great. Skin tone, eyes, hair and nails will improve this way. You'll lose weight by becoming healthier - always the best approach.

The beauty of these techniques is that you don't have to go through the misery and pain of a "crash" diet with limited short-term results. Put the plan into action and watch your baby belly disappear for good. Don't be surprised when people start saying "You look great! How did you do it, so soon after having a baby?"