Is It Normal to Gain Weight After Kids and How to Fix It?

[Sarah_M_B]

Hi, I’m Sarah, 38, from Ohio. I’ve been struggling with weight gain for over 10 years. After my second child, I reached nearly 230 lbs, and despite many attempts, nothing seems to stick. I’ve tried keto, fasting, cardio workouts — I either bounce back or quit halfway. My joints hurt, my self-esteem is low, and I feel like I’m failing as a mom and a woman.
Doctors tell me to eat less and move more, but it’s just not that easy. I’m exhausted, I have no time, and cravings are strong. I feel ashamed and alone in this.

Have any of you successfully managed to lose a significant amount of weight? What worked for you mentally and physically? Any advice from professionals or real people like me would mean the world.

 

[Avery_Glow]

Dear Sarah, Don't punish yourself — weight loss is not about restriction, it's about supporting your body. Focus on foods that nourish, not punish: - Lean proteins (fish, chicken, tofu) - High-fiber veggies (broccoli, kale, carrots) - Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil) Also, drink plenty of water and avoid late-night snacking.

 

[Dr.Adam]

Hi Sarah_M_B, thank you for sharing your story. You’re not alone in this. First, let's break down the basics: if you consume more calories than your body burns, weight gain occurs. The opposite helps you lose weight.
Here are a few medically sound steps to begin with:

• Start with a high-protein breakfast – eggs, Greek yogurt, or cottage cheese.
• Eliminate sugary drinks, even fruit juices.
• Eat slowly, as it gives your brain time to register fullness.
• Focus on whole, single-ingredient foods like vegetables, lean meats, and grains.

And importantly, consult with a registered dietitian to build a sustainable plan.

 

[Dr_Jennifer]

You’re doing a great job by asking for help — that’s step one. For patients with chronic obesity, we often explore not just diet but also emotional eating, stress, and medical options like appetite suppressants or, in some cases, surgery.
But the foundation always remains:

• Eat more protein
• Cut out processed foods
• Stay hydrated
• Walk 30 mins daily
  Let’s build small, daily habits instead of extreme changes.

Weight issues are often hormonal too — thyroid or insulin resistance can contribute. Ask your doctor to test TSH, cortisol, insulin, and blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, get 7–8 hours of sleep, and avoid eating late.
Remember: your circadian rhythm is key. Try to go to bed by 10:30 PM to support your metabolism.

 

[MikeShadow]

Not a doctor, but what worked for me: cut out sugar, added protein shakes for breakfast, and committed to sleeping before 11 PM. I lost 40 lbs in 6 months.