Gaining weight during pregnancy is totally normal, but after your baby is born and your days gradually begin to regain somewhat of a routine, it's time to put your ideas into action and get your bikini body back.

If you're not sure exactly how to begin, here are 5 tips to work your way back to your pre-baby self again—or better!

1- Breastfeed:

Breastfeeding burns 600 to 800 calories a day. It can help mothers lose extra weight gained during pregnancy, even if all you do is sit comfortably and feed your baby, you could still be losing weight.

Some lucky women can drop all their baby fat through breastfeeding alone.

2- Start moving and exercising:

Most women aren’t ready to exercise until the baby is 6 weeks old -longer if they’ve had a C-section.

So, only when your doctor allows it, you can start moving and exercising at pre-pregnancy levels. This will not only help you get your body back but also increase energy levels and balance your new found work-mom life.

Start by walking around the house. If it feels good and doesn't cause or exacerbate bleeding, walk a little farther and harder the next day.

Whenever you’re ready, start practicing 30 minutes of cardio 3 to 5 times a week.

3- Stay away from empty-calorie foods:

Mothers who have just given birth need to keep calorie total at a minimum of 1500 in order for the body to heal and deal with the postpartum changes. But make sure to eliminate sodas and chips and just fill your diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and low-fat products.

Most diets will lower the caloric intake below 1500 calories, so adding in an extra snack or two is a healthy choice.

4- Eat multiple times a day:

As with any other weight loss program, eating multiple times a day keeps your blood-sugar levels steady, and increases the metabolism. It also decreases the feeling of hunger associated with dieting.

Keep in mind that if your calories are distributed throughout the day, in small, frequent meals, they metabolize more efficiently and are less likely to be stored as fat.

5- Take naps:

The better mom feels, the better she will be able to deal with weight loss after baby, so take a nap anytime the baby does.

That way, you won't end up with a long-term sleep deficit, and you'll keep your energy levels and your potentially naughty cravings in check.

Whatever you do, don't sacrifice sleep for exercise time in those early weeks. If you don't sleep enough, you won't have enough energy for satisfying workouts, anyway.