Achieving Post Holiday Weight Loss
04-02-2013 / By:
Curb your
cravings of sweets with water. People often mistake thirst for hunger, so next
time you feel like noshing, reach for water first. Drinking also helps you feel
full. Some experts suggest sipping water (or iced tea) just before you sit down
to a meal. Continue drinking as you eat to add volume and weight to your meal.
Establish
realistic and healthy weight-loss goals. One or two pounds a week maximum is
doable. Top weight-loss programs advocate stopping after the first 10 pounds
and maintaining that loss for about six months before trying to lose any more.
Allow some
room for exercise in your schedule. If you don’t like working out alone, find a
workout buddy. Reach out to a friend, relative or co-worker to see if he or she
would like to exercise with you several times a week. Post holiday workout
buddies are especially helpful because they are usually motivated by the same
goals and want to return to their ideal weight as soon as possible.
Make several
changes in your eating habits. For instance, if you felt you’ve eaten too much
sweets and carbohydrates, make some cutbacks. Downsize your portions and don’t
finish your plate. A healthy post
holiday weight loss plan might include limiting the number of times you eat
out. You can better control your eating at home, so plan to grocery shop at
least once a week and stock your fridge with healthy food options. Fruits,
vegetables, fish, nuts, seeds and low-calorie snacks are good options.
Be careful
of your alcohol choices. Celebrations
and family get-togethers provide plenty of opportunities to imbibe, but
choosing the right drink can help relieve your post-holiday sick feeling. Limit
yourself to one or two drinks in a sitting, and opt for wine, vodka with a low-sugar
mixer, or a dry cider. Skip alcoholic beverages such as margaritas, the punch
bowl, and beer.