There are a few things I’d like you to know before I dive into some top Christmas weight loss tips.
1) I love Christmas and it should be enjoyed to the fullest; this post is by no means trying to dampen your festive spirit, be a buzzkill, or a party pooper.
2) The following tips are healthy strategies you could adopt if you’d like to keep on track with your weight loss goals in the run up to Christmas.
3) I can’t promise you that you won’t gain any weight over Christmas, but these are tips I’ve put into practice over the last few years and they have made a huge difference.
Although Christmas is actually just one day, celebrating Christmas can become a month-long session of pubs, dinner dates, parties, buffets and lots more. Before I was ever aware of what and how often I was eating, the Christmas period was a time when I could easily gain a stone or more. (Quite the skill I know.) However, in recent years I’ve managed to maintain my weight or gain only a few pounds thanks to a few simple strategies. There is no reason why you can’t enjoy your Christmas pudding and keep on track with your health goals, too.
1) Lose, gain or stay the same?
This is a tip I gained from WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers). The idea is that you decide before all the festivities start if you’d be like to lose weight over Christmas, stay the same or if you’d be happy to accept a gain once the festivities are over. This can help with setting realistic goals and help you to be mindful of your food and exercise choices during December. I’ve personally never aimed to lose weight over this time, as for me that’s just not realistic. I range between wanting to stay the same or gain a few pounds; but no gain that would take me too long to shift come January.
2) Make a note of all the events you’ve got coming up
It can be a busy time of year with lots of social occasions full of alcohol and indulgent food. Think ahead to special events you have coming up; are there any events where you can be more mindful of what you eat and drink (while you still enjoy yourself of course); and others where you decide to ‘let your hair down’ and indulge on what’s on offer.
3) Be aware of how many boozy nights you have
Mulled wine, prosecco, festive ales – alcohol is everywhere at this time of year. I love a little drink, but it can increase your appetite and if you suffer with hangovers that last a day or more, then it can lead to more times when you’ll be more than likely overeat and/or not exercise. Try having a few nights where you keep your alcohol content low or at zero.
4) Relax, Christmas dinner is pretty healthy
Turkey, sprouts, potatoes… traditional Christmas dinner is actually pretty healthy, especially if you cook with healthy oils and maybe lay off the goose fat. Fill your plate up with all those Christmas veggies, lean meat, clementines and any other healthy Christmas treats you can find.
5) Embark on a festive walks
Want to catch up with friends and family, while keeping fit? Why not suggest a festive wintery walk!
6) Enjoy yourself!
Most importantly, just enjoy yourself. If you make a mini festive weight loss plan, then good luck and I hope you succeed, but if it doesn’t quite go to plan than don’t stress it. “Life is too short” and it’s more important to enjoy the holiday for what it is and what it means to you.