It’s hard to lose weight after giving birth but obese women who gain more than the recommended weight during pregnancy may have an even harder time losing it, according to the largest study in the U.S. to examine the relationship between weight gain and pregnancy and weight retention.
The study, which was funded by the Centers for Disease Control, charted the weight loss progress of more than 1,600 obese pregnant women. The investigators found that 75 percent of the pregnant women gained too much weight during their pregnancy and the more weight they gained, the less chances they had at taking it off after giving birth.

Actress Nicole Sullivan joins fellow dieters Valerie Bertinelli and Phylicia Rashad as devotees of Jenny Craig, the successful weight loss program that has helped millions of women lose weight.
The actress, who is known for her roles on Lifetime’s Rita Rocks, the sketch comedy series, MADtv and other sitcoms like Scrubs and The King of Queens, is determined to lose the 35 pounds she gained while pregnant with her second son. The actress gave birth six weeks ago and will spend the next few months working hard on the Jenny Craig food and exercise plan to lose the baby weight she put on her petite 5′ 5″ frame.
“You spend a year of your life eating what you want and enjoying letting the baby have what it feels like having — and I’[ve] lost track of what I’m supposed to be doing that’s right,” Sullivan tells People magazine.

This week at DietsInReview.com the focus was on pregnancy. We wanted to give moms information about nutrition and fitness they can use before, during and after their pregnancy to ensure a healthy baby, and a healthy mommy. We invited a number of moms from around the blogosphere, as well as experts in the fields of fitness and nutrition, to share their tips, insights and guidance for achieving your healthiest pregnancy.
We also did not forget about the new dads, inviting a couple of fathers who’ve battled the “daddy baby bulge” to share their experiences and how they’re overcoming the sympathy weight they gained alongside their wives.
Here you’ll find each of the posts from our Healthy Pregnancy series. We thank each of the contributors who made this series possible, and hope you’ll find this to be valuable information.
Getting Ready to Shed that Baby Weight This mom-to-be talks about her successful weight loss, only to turn around and plan another pregnancy. Learn how she plans to take it right back off. Susan Wenner Jackson from Mr. and Mrs. Get Fit
5 Pregnancy Diet Tips from Jillian Michaels and 4 Pregnancy Fitness Tips from Jillian Michaels The no-nonsense Biggest Loser trainer breaks down pregnancy diet and fitness needs with simple and approachable ways. Jillian Michaels

The week of July 20 is Healthy Pregnancy Week at DietsInReview.com.
Yesterday, I shared some interesting research that suggests that Omega-3 fatty acids may be your best defense against Postpartum Depression (PPD). As someone who does not eat seafood, I am guessing there are others like me who would like more options for preventing and overcoming PPD.
Exercise – Physical activity can play a big role in mental health and self-esteem. After pregnancy and childbirth, you may have difficulty recognizing your own body and may not like what you see. Most people suggest waiting six weeks after childbirth before starting exercise, and eight weeks if you had a cesarean section. If you are breastfeeding, you will likely feel more comfortable if you feed your baby before exercising. Exercise will help you lose the baby weight and feel more connected and in charge of your body. If you do not have someone to watch the baby while you are working out, find a gym with child care, workout at home during nap time, or take walks or runs with a stroller.

The week of July 20 is Healthy Pregnancy Week at DietsInReview.com.
Rebecca is a stay-at-home mom to four little boys and is committed to fitness and health. She blogs at Life With Boys where she shares her experiences as a mom, and her journey toward weight loss and fitness.
You’ve just had a baby and are in a hurry to lose the weight you gained while pregnant. Weight loss is challenging enough, and now it is compounded by exhaustion and excessive hunger. Don’t lose hope, here are tips from women who have been there and found a way to lose those extra pregnancy pounds.
- The unanimous suggestion was drinking water. It helps with milk production if you are breastfeeding, and it will boost your metabolism and decrease your appetite. Drink a large glass with meals, and when you sit down to feed your baby.
