Ha ha happy holidays. This time of year brings thoughts of relaxation and merriment for most. During the holidays, we try to take a break from the norm and stray away from the rigid rules of everyday life. Sometimes, we get carried away so much in the enjoyment that indulgences become a weight we take with us after the festivities have been forgotten.
One of the most common listed items among an individual’s New Year’s resolution often revolves around going to the gym, losing weight or becoming fit. Thanks to the unwanted leftovers from the holiday season. How about taking a little pressure off that list, leaving room for more definitive goals such as owning a home or taking that vacation in Italy? Here are some tips and tricks to help you dodge a pound here and there.
1. Eat a balanced meal at home before going to festivities with friends and family.
Most holiday events occur late evening continuing into the night, during which it is recommended we eat less as it is coming closer to the sleeping hours. During the day, have your balanced breakfast and lunch as you normally would. Don’t think about saving space for your aunt’s potato salad slathered with mayonnaise or for an extra plate of food. Instead, never go to a party hungry that way, when you arrive you already have mental control over how much you can consume.
2. Mingle a bit before heading for the buffet.
Yes, the holidays are about food, but it is also an opportunity to see friends and family we haven’t seen probably since last holiday season. Walk around a bit, meet and greet, think of it as waiting until the lines have gotten shorter. This gives our bodies a chance to delay appetite so we end up eating less later on.
3. Drink lots of water.
Water generally causes us to feel full. Have a glass of water when you arrive, yes possibly instead of a glass of wine or juice. If you like, put some water in a wine glass and sip as you catch up on old times. Water is generally beneficial and is a great deterrent to leaving more space for junk. After your meal, drink a glass or two of water as well, which will make it less likely that you ask for seconds.
4. Make note of what is available.
During the mingle, see what foods you really want, instead of piling everything on your plate, you’ll already have an idea of what you don’t want. This will prevent you from eating every single thing just because it is on your plate. Make those calories count with that mental note, once you are ready to have your share, you will be satisfied with everything you have.
5. Have desert.
Do not avoid the desert. Making this an ultimatum will just cause you to compensate elsewhere because you feel like you’re missing out. There will be many choices. Make a conscious decision to have one definitive piece of your favourite or, if you will, just have a small piece of each sweet that you would like to try. Do not have a heavy helping of all. Keep in mind the three bite rule; the first bite for the inviting taste, the second confirms satisfaction and the third leaves a lingering memory. This can serve as a guide throughout the night, tasting can avoid us eating what we really don’t like.
To continue reading, Purchase Vol. 8 Issue #3 2015.
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Ha ha happy holidays. This time of year brings thoughts of relaxation and merriment for most. During the holidays, we try to take a break from the norm and stray away from the rigid rules of everyday life. Sometimes, we get carried away so much in the enjoyment that indulgences become a weight we take with us after the festivities have been forgotten.
One of the most common listed items among an individual’s New Year’s resolution often revolves around going to the gym, losing weight or becoming fit. Thanks to the unwanted leftovers from the holiday season. How about taking a little pressure off that list, leaving room for more definitive goals such as owning a home or taking that vacation in Italy? Here are some tips and tricks to help you dodge a pound here and there.
1. Eat a balanced meal at home before going to festivities with friends and family.
Most holiday events occur late evening continuing into the night, during which it is recommended we eat less as it is coming closer to the sleeping hours. During the day, have your balanced breakfast and lunch as you normally would. Don’t think about saving space for your aunt’s potato salad slathered with mayonnaise or for an extra plate of food. Instead, never go to a party hungry that way, when you arrive you already have mental control over how much you can consume.
2. Mingle a bit before heading for the buffet.
Yes, the holidays are about food, but it is also an opportunity to see friends and family we haven’t seen probably since last holiday season. Walk around a bit, meet and greet, think of it as waiting until the lines have gotten shorter. This gives our bodies a chance to delay appetite so we end up eating less later on.
3. Drink lots of water.
Water generally causes us to feel full. Have a glass of water when you arrive, yes possibly instead of a glass of wine or juice. If you like, put some water in a wine glass and sip as you catch up on old times. Water is generally beneficial and is a great deterrent to leaving more space for junk. After your meal, drink a glass or two of water as well, which will make it less likely that you ask for seconds.
4. Make note of what is available.
During the mingle, see what foods you really want, instead of piling everything on your plate, you’ll already have an idea of what you don’t want. This will prevent you from eating every single thing just because it is on your plate. Make those calories count with that mental note, once you are ready to have your share, you will be satisfied with everything you have.
5. Have desert.
Do not avoid the desert. Making this an ultimatum will just cause you to compensate elsewhere because you feel like you’re missing out. There will be many choices. Make a conscious decision to have one definitive piece of your favourite or, if you will, just have a small piece of each sweet that you would like to try. Do not have a heavy helping of all. Keep in mind the three bite rule; the first bite for the inviting taste, the second confirms satisfaction and the third leaves a lingering memory. This can serve as a guide throughout the night, tasting can avoid us eating what we really don’t like.
To continue reading, Purchase Vol. 8 Issue #3 2015.
Share this post: