First, don't be discouraged. Postpartum pounds are not easy to shed, for a number of reasons. Pregnancy is a time of tremendous change, andit can take your body up to a year to return to normal. If you're nursing,you need to eat at least 1800 calories a day, or risk jeopardizing milk production. Nursing moms should limit weight loss to 4.5 pounds a month. If you're not breastfeeding, 1,600 calories a day is as low as you should go to foster good health. Don't eat any less, because it may lead to low energylevels and inadequate nutrient intakes.

Following the USDA Food Guide Pyramid is a great way to eat a healthy diet,but a visit to a registered dietitian (bring along Baby!) will provide youwith the personalized instruction you need about diet and exercise. Speaking of which, gentle exercise (especially at two months postpartum) speeds upweight loss. Check with your caregiver first, however.