It started with my mum’s ‘White Christmas’ (rice bubbles and white chocolate slice). Then chrissy Champagne cocktails kicked things up a gear.
By New Years’ I had a new friend: the belly bulge. After one week of bad eating?!
Not being a fan of the muffin top, things in my world had to change, and a week or so later (that’s all it takes to shift a festive-eating habit, trust me) a pair of shorts are no longer the enemy lurking in my wardrobe.
My plan of belly attack
I did it by cutting back on the portion size of my dinners – plus keeping them super healthy and unprocessed.
Next: I armed myself with only two snack sources, nuts and fruit. And I cut out the wine on weekdays. At least for most nights.
Finally, I started cycling or walking after work. For fun. (Personally, I don’t really love exercise for pure exercise’s sake – I reckon it has to be fun, relaxing and allow your mind the space to breathe).
But I didn’t do it all once. Just one change per day.
What about you? Have you got your health, or your healthy weight, back on track after the usual xmas indulgences? And if so, how did you pull it off?
If you’re not quite there yet, don’t fret. Try these ideas from weight-loss specialist, Sydney-based dietitian, Geraldine Georgeou:
Protein-ify your meals
“Each meal should include lean protein such as lean red meat, poultry (no skin), seafood such as salmon or tuna (no oil), eggs, a few nuts or low-fat dairy to keep you satisfied and energised.” [source 1a].
Go low on the GI
“Don’t forget to incorporate low glycaemic index carbohydrates which not only allow for long lasting energy but are also usually good sources of fibre.”
These will encourage you to snack less, and sources include brown rice, grainy bread and other unprocessed or less-processed foods. [source 1b].
Ditch the juice
“Avoid juices, cordials and soft drinks as they are high in sugar and kilojoules.”
Look at fat food labels
“Aim for less than 10g of fat per 100g, or less than 10g of fat per serve.”
Listen to your hunger signals
“Don’t just eat food because it is there or for something to do.”
Parties or dinner parties are important places to heed this advice. Don’t OD on the dips and crackers just because they’re sitting in front of you on a pretty platter! I say this because it’s one of my greatest temptations. Sakatas + brie x 20 = game over.
References available upon request