It's not a stereotype... it's the truth. Research shows that young moms are more likely to take in more calories per day and have more body fat than their nonmom counterparts.

To be specific, they take in an average of 370 more calories a day. That's pretty significant and can quickly allow extra weight to creep on. On top of the eating habits, it appears that moms also exercise less, which of course makes sense. They are running all over the place juggling several jobs and don't have the time that nonmoms have.

All of this research came from a study performed at the University of Minnesota.

What's most disturbing is that there isn't the same issue going on with dads and nondads. The workout lengths are the same, the eating habits are close to the same and body weight is the same. Not fair.

So what can moms do to help break this spell and get back on the prebaby bandwagon of looking and feeling their best?

For one, I think that gyms need to advertise more about their nursery facilities. Lots of gyms have them yet I don't think women take advantage of them like they should. This is a huge perk and a great help when it comes time to figure out how to get your workout in.

After all the gym time is the time for you to think about yourself and only you... everyone deserves it and it's clear that men aren't having any guilt trips over finding the time.

And I also think it would help if moms avoided buying sugary foods for their kids. The main problem women have is that they are consuming more simple sugars after babies come, according to the study. It's best to give your kids the best you can and avoid having simple carbs in the house all together.

Say no when your kids ask for Little Debbies, Fruit Roll-ups and sugary cereals. If it's in the house and you're hungry you're likely to find your hand in the sweet drawer.

If you're finding it tough to get your workout in, I want you to look in the mirror right now and say "It's ok to be selfish, it's ok to love me and treat myself the best I can." Remember a more fit you is a healthier you and that makes you a much better mom too!