How to avoid the expanding Christmas waistline
The Christmas tree maybe up, decorations at the ready...
How to avoid the expanding Christmas waistline
The Christmas tree maybe up, decorations at the ready, scarfs and gloves are most definitely being used. The festive season is in full swing with parties planned, chocolates and sweet treats being brought into the work area, so is it any wonder we can’t refuse? Besides it only comes round once a year so why not enjoy ourselves, right? Well, yes, but then do you suffer the consequences of not being able to comfortably fit into your clothes for the first few months of the year? However, do not fear, there are ways in which you can minimise those party pounds piling on and put a stop to that overindulgent voice at the back of your head saying, ’go on, it’s Christmas, treat yourself’! Here are a few tips:
1) The three bite rule. If you have to eat that dessert, cake or something which you just can not refuse, get into a habit of just eating two or three bites only. You could share it with friends. This way you get your cake and eat it!
2) Destroy desserts. After your three bites, either throw it directly in the bin or pour washing up liquid on it so you are not tempted to finish it off later.
3) Wear tight fitting clothing. Wearing a slinky little number, belt or tight trousers will make you aware of your figure, and your expanding waistline, therefore putting a stop to possible overeating.
4) Eat before you go out. If you fill your plate with a quarter of good quality protein, a quarter with complex carbohydrates, and half with vegetables or salad you will not only feel satisfied but you will line your stomach for any alcohol that it could possibly encounter. If when the tray of nibbles appear, you will be less likely to indulge.
5) Have a glass of water. Having a large glass of water before a meal will give you a fuller feeling before you eat. However I wouldn’t recommend this if you have any issues with digestion as it may dilute your digestion juices, causing uncomfortable gas. My suggestion would be to try this on a night when you are not going out.
6) Go for green. Choosing a small plate and filling it up with plenty of salad or vegetables first, before choosing what you want will leave less room to pile on the carbs and fatty foods.
7) Eat small. Go for very small bites and chew until the food is liquid. If you are chatting at a party, you will want to take small amounts as you will be forced to swallow food quickly to answer somebody.
8) Limit liquid calories. Stick with clear sprits, clear mixers and wine as some sugary cocktails can up to as much as 400 calories. This will definitely add some ’junk to your trunk’! Also ensure you eat when drinking alcohol as the more sugar (in alcohol) that hits your blood stream, the more junk food you are going to want to eat later when the sugar crashes. If your drinking at home, remember once you hit the third glass of alcohol, that is when you start to get the munchies and possibly eat something you wouldn’t normally, so stick to one or two.
Whatever you do, I wish you a wonderful Christmas and a very happy new year!