As the days get shorter, and the nights grow colder, it’s tempting to indulge in all of your favorite foods. With so many holiday treats available during this time of the year, it can be hard to enjoy yourself without adding to your waistline. Below are a few helpful tips on how to celebrate without going up a size:
The 80/20 Rule
This famous equation works equally well during the holidays. Give yourself permission to indulge in your favorite treats 20% of the time, while remembering to stick to your healthy diet and exercise regime the other 80% of the time. Many people celebrate the holidays by staying on their regular track during the weekdays, and then give themselves permission to indulge during the weekends.
Managed Indulgence
Saying no to your favorite holiday drinks and goodies can be almost impossible. But when you decide to give in and sample some of those delicious sugary foods, do so without a guilty conscience, but don’t let it get out of control. If you order a holiday drink at your favorite coffee shop, order a standard size, not the huge one. And if your coworker brings in a fresh batch of cookies, eat one or two, don’t bring a handful back to your desk.
Just a Taste
If a coworker or loved one is pressuring you to eat some wicked holiday treats, it can be hard to say no. Go ahead and put a little on your plate, but be sure to stay on track by filling the rest of your plate with vegetables and other healthy fare. If the pressure to eat every sugary, high-fat dish becomes overwhelming, try a polite excuse like, “Yes, I will try it later,” or “I’d love to eat more, but I filled up earlier.”
Being Different Makes You Stronger
While it may look like everyone around you is gorging themselves on unlimited holiday goodies, it is possible to stay strong by choosing to be different. Remember that in a few weeks that those people are going to feel stuffed, sickened, and force to vow to change their ways on New Years’ Day. If you can remain committed and on track during the holidays, transitioning to the new year will be a breeze. By remaining committed to a healthy diet and exercise routine, you might just inspire those around you to employ a little self-control.
Party With a Full Belly
Office and other holiday parties can be a real blast, but if you arrive with an empty stomach, it’ll be almost impossible not to overindulge on fat-packed goodies and sugary treats. Eat a healthy meal at home first, or bring your own lunch to work, and then you’ll have the power to resist all those tempting goodies. After the party is over, and the other guests are groaning and moaning, you’ll be glad you ate a healthy meal beforehand.