Indulging is a natural part of the holiday season. November and December are usually packed with parties, vacations and gifts. Indulging a bit around the holidays doesn’t have to derail your diet and send you into a panic come January 1. Here, Dr. Ary Krau shares his best tips for helping you stay on track with your diet and exercise routine.
Be Mindful of What You Can and Cannot Control
You can’t control or change that big meal you ate yesterday or the fact that you didn’t make it to your scheduled spin class over the weekend. Don’t beat yourself up about past bad choices. Instead, resolve to do better at what you can control, like what you put on your plate today, and whether you hit the gym after work.
Attend the Right Holiday Events
Many big cities host holiday-themed events like a Turkey Trot or an ugly sweater-themed run, designed to keep you moving. Sign up to stay active and get into the holiday spirit at the same time. When visiting with family, encourage the group to take a long walk or ride bikes along the boardwalk. Running, walking and bike riding are great ways to spend quality time with loved ones and offset the indulgent holiday meals you are sure to enjoy.
Get Plenty of Sleep
In the flurry of gift-wrapping and menu-planning, make sure you are getting quality, restful sleep every night. Inadequate sleep has been linked to weight gain, possibly because when we are tired, we are less likely to exercise and make smart dietary choices. If you’re fatigued during the day, try to sneak in a quick nap.
Don’t Drink Your Calories
Holiday-themed drinks like gingerbread latte or white peppermint hot chocolate are tempting, but they’re also packed with calories and sugar. One drink may contain as many calories as an entire meal. Try jazzing up simple drinks with lower-calorie garnishes, such as a sprinkle of cinnamon in a plain latte, or a gingerbread spice herbal tea.
When Diet and Exercise Don’t Address Your Problem Areas
Sometimes a healthy diet and regular exercise have no effect on selective areas of fat. If you are struggling to tone your hips, thighs, buttocks or upper arms with no success, Dr. Krau can help. Book a liposuction consultation with him today to discuss how liposuction can surgically contour your problem areas and help you look and feel your best in the New Year. Call or email our practice today to make your appointment with Dr. Krau.