For many, the holiday season technically begins with Thanksgiving and continues until the ball drops on New Year’s Eve. So it’s no surprise when after six weeks of celebrations and indulgences, our reliable pair of jeans has suddenly become a little too snug.
So how about this year we avoid the January blahs and potential food hangovers that come with a season of excess? With a few well-planned strategies, you can sail through the season with ease, without putting on those extra pounds!
1. Get in a workout
Either pre-event or post-event, there’s nothing better for the spirit, guilty conscience and waistline than a good sweat session.
2. BYOA (Bring Your Own Appetizer – or dessert)
If you are working hard on your weight loss goals and trying to avoid temptation, but also don’t want to hibernate for party season, there’s nothing wrong with bringing your own contribution to a gathering. Chances are, your hostess will be thrilled with the extra, and no one will even be the wiser how healthy your homemade guac or protein bites are! For some ideas, check out these healthy holiday appetizers.
3. Stick with water
Avoid dehydration, stay satiated and cut mega cals by imbibing in water only. If you are going to throw caution and calories to the wind, use them on delicious food instead of boozy, sugary beverages.
4. Fuel up before
There’s nothing worse than arriving to a party starving. Before you know it, you’ve overdone it with the appetizers and bread basket, and now have to force yourself to eat the main course too or risk looking impolite. So instead, have a clean meal beforehand, that way you’ll just graze at your get-together and spend more catching up with friends and family.
5. Catch your zzz’s
Believe it or not, a good night’s sleep can be a big contributor to your holiday goals. Well-rested, you are likely to make more mindful choices. You’ll have more energy and, instead of craving comfort foods and sweets, you’ll be more inclined to reach for healthier fare. Plus, you’ll be energized and ready to suggest active outings, like tobogganing or ice skating, to keep everyone moving!
6. Keep your routine
Just because it’s the holiday season doesn’t mean you should let your daily habits and routine fly out the window. So keep making your breakfast smoothie, cutting up veggies as a grab-and-go snack, and meeting your friend for a walk or fitness class. And most importantly, keep taking your Hydroxycut supplements to give you that extra boost of energy you need to stay on track during this hectic time of year.
