Nutrition tips for the Festive Season

The Festive Season is upon us and with it comes many challenges when you are focusing on improving your nutrition or trying to lose weight.   It is a time of year when it is normal to want to relax a bit and let your hair down, but don’t let this take you off track from progress made throughout the year.  It is not uncommon for people to gain 2-3kgs over Christmas and we all know how hard it is to lose this weight!  Here are some tips to help keep you on track as you navigate your way through the silly season.

Decide on your  goal:  Weight loss or maintenance

This is the single most important thing you can do to keep focused.  If you know you have a lot of functions coming up and want to relax from your food plan a little then aim for weight maintenance over this period.   If you want to continue with weight loss then you may need extra strategies to overcome Christmas temptations.  Where there is a will, there is always a way!

Stick to regular meals and make sure you are getting enough protein.

Don’t be tempted to skip a meal because you have overindulged - this will only slow your metabolism down.  Christmas treats are often very high in carbohydrates which can send your blood sugar levels into a spin.  Balance this out by getting back on track as soon as possible and eating protein with every meal will help get your blood sugar levels stabilised.

Limit alcohol

We all know about the calories in alcohol but remember the negative flow-on effects: it compromises your digestion, slows your metabolism down, causes dehydration and can impede your body’s ability to burn fat for up to 3 days afterwards!  Limit your drinking to special occasions and give your liver the chance to keep the fat furnace burning.

Keep moving

Exercise will help reduce stress and increase energy. Work out so you can go out!

Be accountable

Find an accountability buddy, keep your nutrition appointments and your regular weighing schedule. If you see the numbers creeping up it is time to get back on your food plan – pronto!

Take the focus away from food

Sure, this time of year brings back many memories of Festive treats.  Try to also remember the consequences of overindulging.  Focus instead on the other joys of this time: spending time with friends and family,  buying gifts for your loved ones and enjoying outdoor exercise in the sun. 

Remember:  Christmas is only one day.  Don’t let the excesses of the Festive season last one month!  Focus on your goals and make a conscious decision to put yourself first during this busy time.  By limiting your intake of alcohol and party food you are not depriving yourself - you are giving yourself the gift of good health.  A gift that can last a lifetime.

If you want to nail your goal before the end of the year, my new 14-day 'Countdown to Christmas' weight loss programme will help!  This programme is available to everyone who signs up to the Academy in December.  Find out more here