Losing weight to the point of exhaustion.

Hanoi – Three months after giving birth, a 31-year-old mother cut out carbohydrates and engaged in high-intensity exercise to lose weight, to the point of exhaustion, requiring hospitalization.

On June 9th, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan, Head of the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery at Military Central Hospital 108, stated that the patient was admitted in a state of exhaustion, with erratic blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and gastritis/ulcers in the gastric antrum.

The patient stated that before pregnancy, she weighed 45 kg and was 1.6 m tall. After giving birth, she gained 22 kg and decided to lose weight. She completely eliminated carbohydrates from her diet and spent five hours a day jogging and jumping rope. After two weeks of this regimen, her health deteriorated, and she fainted several times while jogging due to low blood pressure.

Dr. Tuan requested that the patient be hospitalized due to severe physical exhaustion. The patient requested gastric bypass surgery, but the doctor refused because she was breastfeeding and her body was lacking many nutrients. Instead, the patient was advised on a suitable diet to lose weight safely and scientifically .

Women who want to lose weight after giving birth should consult their doctor. Photo: Istock — Women who want to lose weight after giving birth should consult their doctor. Photo: *Istock*

According to Doctor Tuan, pregnant women experience hormonal changes that lead to weight gain. Postpartum women also face more difficulties in losing weight compared to the average person due to factors such as ensuring adequate nutrition, milk production for breastfeeding, psychological stress, and depression.

"The weight loss process requires patience and calmness; don't rush into using unscientific methods that could harm your health and lead to long-term consequences," Mr. Tuan said.

To lose weight after childbirth, eat plenty of vegetables and protein-rich foods, and reduce sugary and fatty foods. Start with gentle exercises like walking or cycling, then gradually increase the difficulty and duration. Reduce stress by practicing yoga, deep breathing, or engaging in favorite activities to relax your mind. Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily and get enough sleep.

Mothers who are breastfeeding need to consider the impact of weight loss on the quality of their breast milk and ensuring they are providing enough calories for their baby. It's best to discuss this with a doctor for specific advice.

Thuy Quynh

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