2024-9-29

It is important to realize that breastfeeding does not necessarily lead to immediate weight loss. Pregnancy and lactation both substantially alter the gastrointestinal tract, making it possible to increase the absorption of nutrients. For example, lactation stimulates the hormone gastrin which in turn regulates the growth of gut mucosa. This in turn ensures healthy absorption of food. (See “Further Reading” below.) This is important to increase the chance that both mom and baby will get enough nutrients.

Before even thinking about losing weight, give your body time to do what it was made to do. Eat as healthfully as possible. Rest as much as possible. Try to exercise. Enjoy your baby. Do not rush anything. Make sure you and your baby are happy and healthy and have reached a point of stability before making any big changes. Even once you have reached this point, take time to discern.

Here are some questions to think and pray about.

1. What emotions come up with the idea of weight loss?
2. Is it the process or the outcome that you are most focused on?
3. What methods do you plan on using?
4. How do you feel about these particular methods?
5. How would you feel if you aren’t achieving your weight loss goals?
6. Are the methods physically, spiritually, and emotionally uplifting in and of themselves?

When it comes to point number 6, take a moment to consider the practice of fasting. From a spiritual perspective, to fast is to invite spiritual warfare. It can be a spiritual training of sorts, and there are good times to incorporate this into your life, especially if it is practiced communally. However fasting should not be embarked upon lightly. For example, immediately after giving birth, you need to focus on recovery and nourishment for both you and your baby. Fasting might hinder this process. This is not a time to invite spiritual warfare into your life, either.

If you do try to incorporate a weight loss strategy into your life, reevaluate often. If it isn’t working for you or your baby, be prepared to simply put it on hold for a while. Spend time in prayer. Touch base with how you feel. If you don’t have time alone without your baby, try walking and praying with the baby in a carrier or stroller. If you have other little ones, you might have to be creative! I know many women who go on drives. The kids are entertained and the parents can have some time to think.

Further Reading

Taylor VJ. “Lactation from the inside out: Maternal homeorhetic gastrointestinal adaptations regulating energy and nutrient flow into milk production” Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology. January 2023.

Rao JN, Wang JY. “Regulation of Gastrointestinal Mucosal Growth“. San Rafael (CA): Morgan & Claypool Life Sciences; 2010.