Many women think that after they give birth their tummy will miraculously return to it's normal state or at least close to it. They expect to leave the hospital, not necessarily wearing their pre-pregnancy jeans, but at least be a size close to it. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news ladies but that's not usually the case. I headed home feeling even more bloated and swollen than when I entered the hospital thanks in part to the drugs and water retention. It was disappointing to say the least. Now a year and a half later I am finally a pound away from my pre-pregnancy weight (Woohoo!). My tummy however- still not as flat as before (Boo!). If only I had known then, what I know now. What is it that I know you ask? It's all about the abdominal wrapping.
Abdominal wrapping is a way to tone ab muscles after giving birth and has been around forever in Japanese and Hispanic cultures (not mention many others). It is just now getting some attention in the US thanks to the Belly Bandit. The Belly Bandit is an abdominal compression wrap designed to help reduce the swelling of the uterus, decrease bloating caused by water retention, support the legs and back and provide additional support for breast feeding moms. It is basically a large stretchy band that you wrap around your stomach and velcro it closed. You can begin using it as early as one day after delivery. They recommend wearing it for 6-8 weeks post-delivery to achieve the maximum benefits. And since generally you aren't allowed to do any exercising for the first few weeks after giving birth (and really what mom has the energy), the Belly Bandit is a great solution. The Belly Bandit is even safe enough for moms who have had c-sections to wear (although you should always consult your doctor before using).
The Belly Bandit comes in three signature styles: Original for the stylish mom, Couture for the chic mom, and Bamboo for the eco-friendly mom. Recently, I was sent a fashionable Couture Belly Bandit to try out. I wanted to see how comfortable it was and if in fact I would be able to wear it all day (and night) like they suggest. I have to say I really love it! While I'm so not a new mom anymore, the Belly Bandit is very comfortable to wear and I really had no desire to take it off. The band really sucks you in and smooths you out without causing you to pass out from lack of oxygen. I noticed I was more confident when I was wearing it because I no longer had my little tummy pouch. And while I am not aiming to lose my post pregnancy pounds while wearing it (I am way way past post pregnancy), it does sort of act like a reminder to me to eat healthier, kinda like a rubber band around the wrist does. Oh and it also totally helps with my posture and if you know me, I really need the help in that department.
If you are wondering whether it actually aids in flattening your tummy, well look no further for proof than celeb moms, like Jessica Alba and Halle Berry, who all have used it and who make me sick..errr..I mean have amazingly shed their pregnancy pounds weeks after giving birth. While some of their weight loss may have to do with a personal trainer and breast feeding, I can't help but think that perhaps the Belly Bandit that they wore helped as well.
If you are wondering whether it actually aids in flattening your tummy, well look no further for proof than celeb moms, like Jessica Alba and Halle Berry, who all have used it and who make me sick..errr..I mean have amazingly shed their pregnancy pounds weeks after giving birth. While some of their weight loss may have to do with a personal trainer and breast feeding, I can't help but think that perhaps the Belly Bandit that they wore helped as well.
The Belly Bandit would really make a great gift for a pregnant friend or one that has recently just given birth. She would absolutely love you for it! And if you are the same size...maybe she will let you borrow it the next time you give birth!
1 comments:
I loved the belly bandit! I couldn't believe how comfortable and fast it worked!!
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