As we stand on the brink of the FEASTive season, are you starting to think about all the weight you might gain? Usually at this time of year we become fantastic at eating with reckless abandon! A more helpful way to think about it, is to look at how to maintain your weight during the season, as well as introducing some healthy eating behaviours for the NON party meals? It takes only 21 days to create a habit so try some of the ideas below everyday for the next 21 days. Before you know you’ll be on your way to surviving the season with these tips and in no time you’ll be on your way to making better decisions for your health!
1. Am I hungry?
Eating when we aren’t hungry means we miss our body’s natural cues. Many of us fall into the habit of eating when we’re bored, eating out of convenience or eating because we’ve had a bad day.
At this time of year eating nibblies at a party is something that you can allow yourself. The trick is to think about the other foods or courses to come, portion sizes and mindless eating. If you’re going to eat snacks – enjoy them being conscious of how delicious they are, the smell and texture. Use all your senses. Once you’ve had the opportunity to enjoy and notice how absolutely fabulous they are, move onto the next item or stop. I promise you there is more delicious food coming! Afterall you don’t have to follow the lessons of your childhood; no one is telling you you have to eat EVERYTHING on your plate before you can have desert!
2. Water, water, and more water.
Each day we need around 2 litres (8 glasses). Not only is this good for our body, it can actually make you feel full. Also, when you think you’re hungry, chances are your body is actually thirsty and dehydrated! Don’t wait to drink until you feel thirsty. The easiest way to get that kick start is to drink two glasses of water FIRST THING in the morning – yes before your properly awake!! This is a great habit to start – do it for 21 days!
3. Divert your energy.
What non-eating activities can you do during this time of year? If you’re getting ready to out out to a Christmas event, turn the music on and dance around for at least 5 minutes. Our goal is to get in the habit of moving more! It takes only 21 days to create a habit so do something everyday – even something as little as when you’re in front of the TV try knitting, pilates, yoga or if you have one, ride an exercise bike or treadmill. Don’t forget to park your car further away from work or the shops, take the stairs instead of the lift – try all sorts of little things to move more!
4. Declutter your pantry.
This is really important to help move your sabotage foods out of the house – especially at this time of year. I bet you don’t even need to open the pantry to tell me what they are. Support your efforts and get them out!
5. Get lunches and healthy snacks organised for everyday eating!
The key to helping you stay on track at this time of year is to have healthy lunches and snacks readily available in your home for everyday eating. For lunches try salads, quiches, boiled eggs, tuna. For snacks carrot and celery sticks, home made popcorn without butter, fruits, or a make-your-own trail mix with raisins, nuts, and dried fruits.
This is a great time of year to balance out the FEASTive season eating by introducing healthy habits so you don’t have to feel guilty about enjoying the beautiful foods and celebrations this time of year offers!
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