"Our subjects were better able to lose baby weight after delivery when they had childcare help. Many women fear being accused of being a bad mother if they seek out assistance in caring for their child. In fact, employing the help of others can only help new moms to better care for their family by allowing them to rest, exercise, or socialize for stress relief," said Slotkin.

"We recognize that not everyone can afford childcare help or have family available to help out," said Nancie Herbold, EdD, RD, study co-author. "What some moms can do is increase their physical activity - even a ten minute walk with the baby each way to a neighbor's house. If physical activity can be incorporated into everyday tasks it becomes more doable," said Herbold.

Breastfeeding increases a new mom's calorie requirements by up to 300 to 500 calories per day. New moms do not need to feel that they need to choose between breastfeeding and returning to work. "Employment policies today are generally more supportive of breastfeeding. Some areas even have legal protections surrounding this," said Slotkin

Source : Topics in Clinical Nutrition