The last two months of the year are hard for anyone in Houston, TX, who is trying to lose weight. Every get-together has food temptations that can destroy the potential for success. How do you avoid overeating during the holidays and bypass all those goodies that only come once a year? One simple way is to go ahead and eat a treat or two. If you have a small serving of your favorite food that your Auntie makes only at holiday time, it’s not the end of the world. It’s okay to eat a small amount of unhealthy food occasionally. Just don’t eat a whole pie or consistently eat unhealthy foods.
Are you afraid you’ll eat everything in sight the minute you arrive at celebrations?
It’s easy to do, especially if your celebration isn’t a formal sit-down dinner but a grazing experience where you can go back for seconds, thirds, and more. You can eat quite a bit even if you’re casually eating a few cookies here and a cupcake or two there. Many people don’t eat all day when they have a party that night. That’s the worst thing you can do. It leaves you ravenous and the only option is the party food. You don’t control the food that’s there. Instead, eat something at home right before you leave so you aren’t as hungry. You’ll be more likely to choose healthier options and eat less.
Drink plenty of water.
Water fills you up, but not out! Have a glass of water a half hour before eating. It can help you feel fuller. At parties that offer a serve-yourself option, where you can eat whatever and whenever you choose, drinking water first as you meet and greet other guests. Drinking water can be your secret weapon to curb your appetite, fill you up, and help you stick with a program of healthy eating.
Visit with others and eat slower.
Sometimes, feeling socially awkward can cause people to eat more. If you find your head down, shoveling food in your mouth because you don’t feel comfortable talking, then listen. Some of the best conversationalists don’t talk much, but they listen better than anyone else. Instead of eating, pause to absorb what the other person says. The extra time it takes to eat slower allows the stomach to signal to the brain that it’s full.
- Even if you don’t know anyone, you can slow the food you consume. Chew each bite thoughtfully. Savor each bite, chewing it until it’s almost liquid while enjoying its taste and texture.
- If it’s a buffet-style meal, fill your plate with a heaping serving of greens. Eat that first before you go back for other food. Choose vegetables without creamy sauces and healthier options first.
- Sit down to eat. Whether you’re at home or a party, eating while you stand destroys part of the experience. Sitting down can slow how fast you consume your food and help make you more aware of each bite.
- Replace alcoholic beverages with water or unsweetened tea or coffee. Alcohol not only adds tons of calories, but it also makes you hungrier, so you eat more.
For more information, contact us today at Reggie C. Fitness