970x125
Actor Gauahar Khan, who welcomed her first child Zehaan in May 2023, recently opened up about her intense postpartum weight loss journey.
970x125
Speaking on The Debina Bonnerjee Show, she shared how her desire to return to work and look her best on screen led to drastic dietary changes. “Six months after his birth, I decided to wean him off breast milk, and from that day I went on an only salad diet. My diet was only leaves and soup. I zipped my mouth. I literally did. I was not on a diet. I was eating things properly, but it used to be salads and soup form,” Gauahar said. “I left non-veg. I left mutton. It is my most favourite thing to eat, but I left it because it is high in calories. I left all that because I wanted to work.”
During the initial six months postpartum, Gauahar said she wasn’t watching her food intake too closely as she was breastfeeding. “I was conscious that I’m going to be on screen again, and I can’t take that lightly. For six months, I breastfed, but I was not exclusively breastfeeding, I was also using formula. But for those six months, I didn’t take care of my food that much, as I was breastfeeding and I had that responsibility. I was eating normal food, keeping in mind the carbohydrates, fat and protein content needed for Zehaan.”
On Instagram stories, she had earlier revealed: “Lost 10 kgs in 10 days postpartum! Alhamdulillah! Six more to go!” The actor is currently expecting her second child.
But, is it advisable for new mothers to go on extremely low-calorie diets like salad-and-soup-only plans to lose postpartum weight, especially after breastfeeding?
Dr Shaily Sharma, consultant gynaecologist at Cloudnine Hospital, Faridabad, tells indianexpress.com, “No, it is not advisable for new mothers to go on extremely low-calorie diets, such as salad-and-soup-only plans, especially during or after breastfeeding. Postpartum recovery is a delicate time when the body needs sufficient nutrients to heal, maintain energy levels, support hormone balance, and, if breastfeeding, produce quality breast milk.”
She adds that cutting calories too drastically can lead to fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and even a reduction in milk supply. “New mothers should focus on balanced, whole-food meals that include proteins, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables. Instead of extreme dieting, it’s healthier to aim for gradual, sustainable weight loss through mindful eating and physical activity.”
Gauahar claims she lost 10 kgs in 10 days. Is such rapid weight loss possible without adverse effects?
Losing 10 kilograms in just 10 days is highly unlikely to be safe or sustainable, stresses Dr Sharma, adding, “While initial weight loss may occur due to water loss, strict dieting, or reduced glycogen stores, such rapid changes can negatively affect metabolism, energy levels, and hormonal health. A drastic calorie deficit can push the body into a state of stress, leading to fatigue, irritability, and even disruptions in menstrual cycles. Muscle loss may also occur if weight loss is too fast, weakening the body and slowing the metabolic rate. Any short-term gain through extreme methods often results in weight regain and other long-term health issues. It is always best to consult a qualified healthcare provider before attempting rapid weight loss plans.”
Safer and more sustainable dietary and exercise practices
Dr Sharma recommends a balanced diet that “includes lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can provide the necessary nutrients and energy. “Hydration is also essential, especially for breastfeeding mothers.
Story continues below this ad
“When it comes to exercise, starting slowly with light walking or postnatal yoga after medical clearance is a good way to reintroduce movement. As strength and stamina improve, one can gradually add resistance training and moderate-intensity cardio exercises. Pelvic floor exercises are also important for regaining core strength. Consistency, adequate sleep, stress management, and self-compassion play crucial roles in postpartum recovery and healthy weight loss,” concludes the expert.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
970x125
