Many people dread the holiday season because they fear gaining a few extra pounds. Some even decline invitations to parties and dinners in hopes of avoiding further indulgence or overeating. However, the holiday season provides a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with family members and friends, a time you might not regularly experience throughout the year. So, it’s essential not to let the fear of gaining weight deter you from enjoying these holiday moments.
To ensure those extra pounds stay at bay, some small adjustments can be made, requiring a bit of knowledge, commitment, focus, and a touch of willpower. Here are some pieces of advice that have worked for others and might prove beneficial for you too:
- Have a healthy breakfast. The old saying holds true – breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But beyond that, establishing a healthy pattern can be beneficial; have a light snack before lunch and stay hydrated throughout the day. Snacking, generally, tends to be less healthy and higher in unnecessary calories.
- Eat small meals five times a day. This keeps your metabolism active throughout the day and helps revive your metabolism. Instead of stuffing yourself during lunch or dinner, spread your food intake over the course of the day. Eating smaller portions will allow you to enjoy your food more and keep your metabolism functioning smoothly.
- Don’t skip meals. While many people skip breakfast, which I don’t recommend, some might skip meals during lunch or dinner, which is even worse. Both skipping meals or overeating can be detrimental to your body, leading to hunger pangs and cravings. When one is missing, it signals your body to compensate for the lack of nourishment, potentially leading to overeating.
- Engage in regular physical activity. Exercise contributes to the proper functioning of your metabolism. However, it doesn’t have to be painful. Walking, stretching, or dancing to your favorite music can be enjoyable. Have fun without punishing yourself. If you enjoy what you’re doing, there’s a higher chance of sticking to your routine.
- Have fruits or vegetables before any big meal. This will make your body aware that you’re reducing hunger and more food is coming, which might save you from overindulging.
- Avoid restrictive diets. While some people may choose to skip meals, which I don’t recommend, some might skip meals during lunch or dinner, which is even worse. Both skipping meals and overeating can be detrimental to your body, leading to hunger pangs and cravings. When you miss a meal, your body might think it’s starving and compensate for the lack of nourishment, potentially leading to overeating.
- Indulge responsibly. For many events, you might feel obligated to eat something. If you feel this way, choose wisely, and opt for healthier options. Most hosts and hostesses will appreciate your dietary preferences and can accommodate them. Moreover, if you genuinely feel hungry, eat. Most hosts and hostesses can tell when you’re genuinely hungry, and it’s okay to indulge a bit.
- Choose non-alcoholic beverages or limit wine consumption. Alcohol contains a significant number of calories and can sabotage your hard work over the past few months. It’s not about avoiding it completely, but moderation is key.
- Drink plenty of water or chew on ice. Water helps your body ‘feel’ that it’s hydrated, even when it’s not there. Additionally, it’s an excellent way to cleanse your system.
- Be mindful of what you’re eating. Avoid letting peer pressure make you consume food you’d rather avoid. Refusing politely only takes courage and helps you stay true to your goals.
- Stop eating at least two hours before sleeping. Your metabolism tends to slow down noticeably at night, and eating late can add unnecessary calories that your body may not burn effectively.
- Get enough sleep. Without sufficient rest, your body won’t function properly.
- Enjoy everyone’s holiday. You don’t need to give in to the pressure of conforming to eating habits at gatherings. Make wise decisions and, most importantly, enjoy your holiday season!