How to enjoy the festive season WITHOUT gaining weight
Many people associate the holidays with excessive eating and drinking. If you’re worried about eating or drinking too much over the party season, the good news is there are ways to manage your food and drink consumption so you don’t hinder your weight loss plans – plus still have fun.
We also know that if you are following the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge, you may be wondering what the best option is for your festive tipple. See our guide below to help you make the best choice.
How to enjoy the festive season WITHOUT gaining weight
1. Don’t arrive ravenous to a party
There’s nothing like extreme hunger to test anyone’s willpower. If you arrive at a gathering hungry you are far more likely to end up overdoing it on alcohol, plus whatever food happens to be served first (which tends to be less than healthy).
Try to prepare for this by having a nutritious snack before you arrive, such as a banana, yogurt, some trail mix or a muffin (especially if you know there won’t be a main meal served).
2. Don’t stand near the food or the bar
Try to keep busy chatting with people away from the snacks, and avoid the tendency to overeat just for something to do with your hands. Grab some water so that your hands are busy if that helps.
3. Choose your drinks wisely
Free drinks can be a killer for willpower. Especially large, creamy, sugary drinks with umbrellas in them. Have one and enjoy it (but best not to have 3!).
A great option is to enjoy a glass of white wine or champagne with some sparkling water in it. You still enjoy the flavor but it drastically reduces your alcohol and calorie intake. Plus no one will know that you are being drink-smart.
Or you can try one of our AMAZING mocktails.
4. Avoid anything deep-fried, buttery or creamy
There is, for some reason, a tendency for people to think that everyone needs more batter and mayonnaise in their life on social occasions.
Try to skip the pastry and creamy canapes. Fill up on healthy options such as carrot sticks and hummus instead, a small amount of cheese, or some fresh fruit.
5. Try to source better choices in the food department
Your best bet is to fill up on better options such as fresh dip, rice paper rolls, fresh fruit, sandwiches on whole wheat bread, smoked salmon, meatballs and sushi.
Why not take along a healthier canape or snack to a friend’s party? That way you’ll know there will be something for you to grab and enjoy. Try the Brie and Onion Cheese Bites from the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge recipe hub.
6. Set yourself some limits
If you find you don’t have an ‘off’ button for the drinks or food at the party, it can help to set yourself a number of each that you will have. That way you can still be a part of the event and enjoy yourself, but if you reach your 3-drink or 4-canape limit then this might help you to keep yourself in check and not overdo it.
7. Don’t overfill your plate
If there is a buffet or a sit-down meal, try your best to keep your portions in check.
It’s easy to get carried away when you want to try everything, but remember that this is not your last meal and that you are trying to be healthy (so best to take the extra dinner roll out of your purse). Try filling at least half your plate with a leafy salad and/or veggies to help keep the rest of your portions in check.
8. Watch the sauces and dressings
There is nothing that can undo your great choices faster than a creamy sauce or high-fat salad dressing. If in doubt, leave it out and go for a splash of olive oil for your salad or some mustard for your roast beef.
9. Have a line or two ready for over-eager waiters
If you are one of those people that find it hard to say no to a smiling waiter with a tray full of spring rolls, it pays to be organized.
There’s no need for you to give them your life story, a simple line such as “They look great, but I’m all set thanks” or “I’m fine for now” will suffice.
Healthy Mommy happy hour tips
- Watch your portion sizes – just like you do with your food, be sure not to over-pour your drinks as they can quickly add up.
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water – it will help you in the morning as well as keep you in control.
- Drinks to avoid include creamy cocktails (they are often huge and filled with, of course, cream), cocktails made with sugar syrup and pre-mixed drinks.
- Set yourself a limit – if you are going to a party why not tell yourself that you will enjoy 3 drinks and that’s it. Same goes with the canapés!
- Instead of making fruity punch, why not make a healthy iced tea, it’s super low calorie as well as being refreshing.
Are you ready to become a Healthy Mommy?
Regain your body confidence with The Healthy Mommy’s 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge.
Our Challenge is designed by moms FOR MOMS – to help them reach their goal weight and tackle their health and fitness.
The Challenge is home to customizable meal plans, 24/7 social support and realistic exercises moms can do AT HOME.
To find out more on the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge click here.
