Are you looking forward to celebrating the holidays this year? Are you planning which parties you’ll attend and which ones you’ll skip? Are you choosing which events you’ll go to based on your current diet plan? Are you wondering why you’re even bothering to try to diet during the holiday season?
If you’re trying to lose weight while still celebrating with your friends and family members, you aren’t alone. Many adults try to diet each year. Unfortunately, for many dieters, the holiday season can be incredibly stressful. Parties are known for being a dieter’s worst nightmare since they often serve cake, ice cream, soda and wine.
While dieting during the holiday season can be challenging, it’s not impossible. There are several ways you can stick with your diet and still lose weight during the holidays. Here’s how.
1. Eat before you go
As much as you probably want to get your fill at the party, it’s a good idea to eat before you go. This way, you can fill up on healthy items you’re allowed to eat. While you can still eat at the party, you won’t be as hungry. Sometimes, feeling hungry makes sticking to a diet quite challenging. Eating prior to the celebration, even if it’s just a small piece of fruit or a protein bar, will take the edge off your hunger and help you stay on track.
2. Eat half as much as you want
Consider how much you want to eat, then take only half. Remember that it takes awhile for your body to realize it isn’t hungry anymore. If you fill your plate with food you want to eat, but in smaller portions, you’ll still be able to enjoy eating without going over your calorie limit for the day.
3. Eat things after you drink water
Finally, make sure you drink water before you eat. Water is a cheap, zero-calorie beverage you can enjoy with a slice of fruit for flavor. It also will reduce the amount of food you eat since it fills you up. If you’re worried that other party-goers will comment on what you’re drinking, simply ask the bartender or caterers to give you sparkling or carbonated water in a small glass. People will assume you’re enjoying a mixed drink.
Remember that no matter how much weight you have to lose, it’s possible to do so while celebrating the holiday season with the ones you love. It’ll just require a little more effort than it used to.
