By When something makes weight loss easier — embrace it
We can all use all help we can get our hands on during the weight loss phase. There is no natural magic cure or silver lining — it takes work. But, it is in no way impossible to achieve your weight loss goals if you put some habits in place and stick with them. Remember that this is a lifestyle without any set destination, as I keep repeatedly mentioning. Your initial set point is where you are happy with your body shape, are at an adequate weight, and all your health problems disappear (or somewhere along those lines). Anything can and will set you off course if you decide to break your strategic habits consistently. Celebrations, pressure from family and friends, and stress can throw a weight loss spanner in the works. Let me reassure you, one day of overeating or indulging isn’t going to hurt you — but a week or a month will. That’s not to say you shouldn’t be aware of the meals when you have a work function.
I always make it a priority to tell the host the following:
- Do you have healthy, vegan options? or
- Shall I eat beforehand and bring my food?
Usually, people will cater to your preferences, but you also have to keep a level head about this. It’s probably not always going to be healthy or something tasty. But, who cares, enjoy and remember it’s one day. One strategy that helps me during times like this, especially when the pressure is on to stuff your face (because Greek families want to make sure you eat enough as everyone is always too skinny!), is the following.
Vital strategy to curb yourself from overeating is:
- First, make sure you have a soda or mineral water dash with lemon or lime.
That’s pretty much it! Then, add some ice to keep it cool and refreshing. Finally, maybe add some mint leaves or rosemary. After a few of these, you will feel stuffed — nothing is getting in a bubbly watery stomach anytime soon. The carbon dioxide in sparkling water suppresses appetite due to its satiating effect. This will reduce your food intake at any party. I keep this strategy in my sight every time I have a work function, wedding, or celebration. For example, I used it last night at my workplace Christmas Party. Did anyone suspect anything — NO! Whilst everyone goes ahead and drinks litres of beer, terrorising their liver and leaving them hungover and unproductive the next day — I maintain my brain total capacity. So I also keep my health and don’t have my head stuck in the toilet bowl the next day. After that dramatic write up, it’s not hard to pick the best alternative! So, if a function comes up — don’t stress. If you want to have a drink, do so. Just add some bubbly water to the mix to stop yourself from going overboard. It’s hard not to when you’re in the middle of the social pressures of fitting in. This way, you can still fit in, be sociable and maintain your health and lifestyle goals. Happy celebrations, guys. Keep safe! If you would like to read more articles like this or start writing your own, please sign up via my link. I’d love to see you on the other side. Sign up here for your medium subscription