We all say that we’re not going to try and not overeat during Christmas but the next thing you know, your pants are fitting a bit too snug and your ugly sweaters a bit too tight. While the holiday season may be a great way to bond, socialise, and spread good cheer, it doesn’t leave us unscathed in the weight department. We know you don’t want to gain any unnecessary weight but we also know you want to enjoy yourself as well. So here is 6 tips on how to avoid overeating during the holiday season.
Plan ahead.
If you know that you’re going to be eating a big meal or dinner later on in the day, don’t starve yourself. This is how you gorge. You wait all day for this glorious meal and then eat too much. Instead make sure to eat nutrient dense meals that a lighter than usual. You can pace these meals out so you aren’t feeling hungry.
Don’t schedule events back to back.
One way to pack on the calories is to go from party to party and eating large meals. If you know you’re going to be tempted to overeat, don’t double book. Plus, I don’t know about you but I’m definitely not comfortable going to another place after I’m stuffed.
Wait before refilling your plate.
Sometimes we get ahead of our own bodies and eat more than we ought to. I know you love Grandma’s famous whipped potatoes but you should wait at least 20 minutes before deciding you want more. So take your time and savor each bite. Take mini breaks in between and talk to your friends and family. By the time you’re done with your first plate you’ll realize that you’re already pretty full.
Choose what you want to splurge on.
If you’re currently sticking to your diet, don’t deprive yourself. You can enjoy moderate samplings of some of your favorite things. Just don’t overdo it. Think about the quality of the food before you go to town on it. For example, there’s a difference between homemade fudge from your favorite cousin and store bought packaged sugar cookies filled with processed ingredients.
Don’t stick around the food.
If the party you’re at as a buffet bar or platters of hors d’oeuvres, make yourself a small plate and then move away from the station. We don’t realize how many calories we can consume through mindless nibbling from those little platters. You should also choose healthier options they have available. So pick one or two things that really interest you and then load your plate with veggies or some kind of lean protein that will help keep you fuller, longer.
Don’t load up on the booze.
There are hundreds of hidden calories in mixed drinks. Enjoy one glass of your favourite sugary beverage and then stick with water after.
It’s not easy to not overeat during the holidays but it can be done. Just be diligent with what you eat and when you eat it. Your body and your pants will be thanking you no end come January.
