Abdominal Belts to Reduce Belly Fat: Find Out If Doctors Recommend Women Wear Them After Childbirth [Beuzz]

“It is important to consult a health care provider before beginning any exercise or diet program after pregnancy,” said Dr. Akta Bajaj, Senior Consultant and Chief Obstetrics Gynecologist, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals.

abdominal belt There is no scientific evidence available to claim that tummy tucks help reduce the belly to pre-pregnancy state, although a few studies have shown that they can help reduce pain. (Source: Freepik)

Gaining weight is absolutely normal during pregnancy, with most women gaining between 10 and 40 pounds. But, in an attempt to lose that weight, many new mothers opt for various means right after childbirth without allowing the body to heal itself properly. Thus, a fashion that has become extremely popular is to use abdominal belts to lose big belly — but is it effective and recommended? To find an answer to this frequently asked question, we reached out to experts. Take a look at what they had to say.

Emphasizing the same, Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr. Amina Khalid wrote on Instagram: “There is no harm in wearing tummy tucks or girdles after childbirth, whether vaginal or caesarean. However, what matters is why you want to wear it. If you’re planning on wearing it thinking it’s going to help shrink your midsection, it’s not. There is no substitute for Healthy eating and exercise to reduce belly fat or tone muscles.

Adding, Dr Akta Bajaj, Senior Consultant and Chief Obstetrics Gynecologist, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, said: “Abdominal belts, also known as postpartum belts, are often marketed as a solution to help reduce belly fat after pregnancy. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that ab belts can reduce belly fat.

So what is the function of an abdominal belt?

According to Dr. Bajaj, “Abdominal belts are designed to support abdominal muscles and back muscles after pregnancy. They can help improve posture, reduce Back ache, and provide support to the abdominal muscles as they heal from pregnancy and childbirth. They can also help reduce swelling in the abdominal area.

How can women lose belly fat after pregnancy?

Losing belly fat after pregnancy can be a challenge, but there are several natural ways to help the body recover and promote fat loss. Here are some tips, according to the expert:

*Breast-feed: Breastfeeding can help promote weight loss and burn extra calories. It also helps release hormones that help shrink the uterus.

*Adopt a healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats can help with weight loss and provide the body with the nutrients needed for recovery.

*Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins, reduce bloating and promote weight loss.

*Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for weight loss and recovery. Lack of sleep can contribute to weight gain and make it harder to lose weight.

*Practice regular physical activity: Regular exercise can boost metabolism and improve overall health. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration as the body recovers.

*To manage stress: Stress can contribute to weight gain and make it harder to lose weight. It is important to manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga.

*Be patient: Losing abdominal fat after pregnancy takes time and patience. It is important to set realistic goals and not rush the process. Remember that the body needs time to recover and heal after pregnancy.

“It’s important to consult with a health care provider before beginning any exercise or diet program after pregnancy,” Dr. Bajaj noted.

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First published on: 2023-04-13 at 15:00 IST