Avoid New Years’ Weight Gain: Top Tips
We’ve made it through another year – this year is soon to come to an end!
Whether this last year was successful with weight loss or not, it’s now in the past, and we have next year to look forward to and take advantage of.
The journey is not always smooth, and sometimes temptation can strike at your weakest times (like after a few too many champagnes), so to complement your efforts, we have listed the best tips to avoid New Years’ weight gain!
Before You Go…
…Have a healthy snack! If you’re planning on going to a New Year party, be sure to eat a healthy snack or mini-meal before you go.
You know there will be calorie-laden food at any holiday party, so eating a snack of fruit/veggies and some lean protein, like tuna, chicken, nuts, or boiled egg, will ensure you don’t overindulge with the cheese plate and desserts!
…Fit in some quick exercise! Whether you go for a brisk walk for 30 minutes, speed walk for 15, do a quick exercise video, or just simply stretch, any type of activity before a New Years’ party helps!
Not only will it burn off some calories, but you will also feel energized and fresh for your big night out However, remember, just because you burn some extra calories before does not mean you should indulge too much at the party!
While You’re There…
…Scope out the options! Look over the entire food selection before choosing. That way, you can scope out all of the options and narrow down the healthiest options.
Try your best to fill up your plate with mostly veggies, and if you are asked to bring a dish, this is the perfect opportunity for you to bring a diet-friendly option.
…Allow yourself a treat! It is the holiday, after all, and although you want to avoid overindulging, you don’t have to deprive yourself!
After you scope out the food table, narrow down the treats you would like to try the most, and take a few small portions. It is wisest to have the treats after you have your healthy options, as it is most likely you will eat less this way.
…Limit alcohol! Your calories are much better off going to a holiday treat rather than just a drink, so consider that when choosing your options.
Another reason to limit alcohol is that once you’ve had a few cocktails, your judgment may not be at its best, and you are more likely to overindulge. It’s all about moderation, and that goes for alcohol, too!
…Socialize! This may seem like an obvious point, as it is a party, but really focus on the social aspect of the event.
I think we can all relate to putting too much focus on the food table at holiday parties, and that is likely part of the reason we are where we are today, so keep that in mind and change that habit for good!
Socialize away from the food area, and stick to where your most talkative friends are – This will do wonders in distracting you from temptation!
Once You’re Home…
…No leftovers! It’s very common for the host of the party to dish out leftovers at the end of the night, but you must resist! It is most unlikely that food fits with your healthy eating regime, so don’t risk it by bringing it home.
Graciously thank the host or the offer, and maybe even let them know about your new lifestyle change – it could be a great conversation topic, and they will likely be happy for you and offer some extra motivation!
…Drink lots of water! Whether you had a few cocktails or just stuck to your food options, water is never a bad thing.
Water will keep you feeling fuller and hydrated, so your body will function optimally and consume fewer calories.
Drinking lots of water is especially important if you had a few cocktails since alcohol is dehydrating, and without lots of water, you may be in for an unpleasant hangover!
…Start January 1st fresh! It’s a new day, a new year, and a new chance at success! Start the New Year with some morning exercise, a healthy breakfast, and a positive outlook.
Try writing down all of the things you are grateful for while also writing down all the reasons you want to change your lifestyle for good. Keep that list somewhere in the open, like on the fridge (how appropriate!), so you can always be reminded why you are on the journey!
Most likely, the most common New Year’s resolution, weight loss, is also the most forgotten resolution, simply because we don’t plan for success.
If you make a plan before the New Year even starts, then you’re well prepared to jump into 2023 with a positive mindset and, most importantly, a strategy.
Keep making goals for yourself, along with the steps needed to reach that goal, and you will surely complete this journey!
What do you think? Is next year going to be the year of weight loss for you? Do our tips help you prepare for New Year’s festivities? Let us know by commenting below!
