Lataa Saberwal is an Indian actress and nutritionist known for her roles in popular Indian television series and films. She rose to fame for her role as Rajshri Maheshwari in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke. Lataa has a strong passion for health and wellness. Her postnatal journey has inspired many, as she has shared valuable insights on recovery, healthy eating, and balanced living.
According to her “My mission is to build self-confidence in middle-class women through holistic personal development”
Women Fitness team caught up with Lataa Saberwal to share her postpartum journey.
Can you share your journey with postpartum weight loss and how it has evolved?
I started my weight loss journey calmly and without rushing, as I had always been into fitness and wanted to stay fit. At the same time, I didn’t want to put pressure on myself because I had a C-section, which was a major surgery. I was also 38 years old when I delivered, so I needed to prioritize maintaining my health for a good lifestyle. I started with basic healthy lifestyle changes and with that 20 minutes of walking.
What were the biggest challenges you faced during your postpartum weight loss, both physically
and emotionally?
The biggest challenge I faced was time management because even though you have helped you need to be present for your baby, you are getting up at odd timings taking care of the baby so that time I used to squeeze in what time I got to exercise for some time, maybe walk. When it came to emotional challenges, I sometimes missed my old body. But I reminded myself that it took nine months to gain the weight, so I gave myself nine months to lose it. By my baby’s first birthday, I was back in shape.
How did you balance exercise and rest while caring for a newborn?
To get a balance between your schedules is very tough and once you think you have got a hold of it. It messes up again and since I had a colic baby it used to cry a lot which made it even more difficult for me since I needed to be present with the baby all the time.
What role did nutrition play in your weight loss journey?
Nutrition plays a very important role, and as a nutritionist, I understand its importance. I adopted a healthy lifestyle, eating only home-cooked meals with no refined sugar or fried foods. I remember allowing myself one cheat meal a month and then having it the next month. I also included homemade rich dry fruit ladoos in my diet, which are especially helpful for lactating mothers.
How did you manage to stay motivated and consistent with your fitness goals during this
period?
Yes, motivation plays a very important role, I didn’t weigh myself till today for me weight management is being fit and healthy this is the most important thing one should incorporate in their life. Also, I have made a habit of changing my mobile screen with a motivational quote every day which I read every day and follow by heart.
What advice would you give to new mothers struggling with postpartum weight loss?
My advice to new mothers is, to take things slowly but start after consulting your gynecologist based on your health condition. It’s very important to build a healthy lifestyle, and even more important to feel good—exercise should make you feel that way. Don’t feel disheartened by comparing your journey to others because you are unique. Focus on building a healthy lifestyle that emphasizes quality over quantity
