\u201cDuring the festive season the scale is likely to go up, rather than down,\u201d says Renny Letswalo, Managing Director at Cambridge Weight Plan.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere seems to be a never ending amount of food and drink during this time, tempting us to break our own health rules,\u201d adds Letswalo.<\/p>\n
\u2022Reaching for comfort food during the holidays.<\/p>\n
Most people overeat as a result of stress and not actual hunger, says Letswalo. \u201cWe are biologically wired to reach for comfort food when we are stressed and overwhelmed, which often temporarily takes the edge off. But the trick lies in breaking the connection between stress and food and replacing comfort eating with something else.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe silly season can be a nerve-wracking time for people trying to lose weight, so try these tips and tricks to beat the bulge during the holidays.<\/p>\n
\u2022Put your food on a smaller plate.<\/p>\n
Studies show that the bigger the plate, the more food people serve, so opt for the side plate to control your portions.<\/p>\n
\u2022Buy healthy snacks.<\/p>\n
Make sure your fridge is loaded with healthy options to choose from. Apples, yogurt and fresh veggies can ward off hunger pangs and stop you from eating out of boredom.<\/p>\n
\u2022Keep exercising.<\/p>\n
Even if you only schedule short interval training throughout the day, stay active and keep moving.<\/p>\n
\u2022Start off strong.<\/p>\n
Start the day with a healthy breakfast. A bowl of cooked oats will keep you feeling fuller for longer \u2013 reducing your chances of overeating.<\/p>\n
\u2022Limit your alcohol intake.<\/p>\n
If you must drink, opt to drink from a tall and narrow glass to drink less. According to studies we consume more liquid when we drink form a short, wide glass compared to a tall and narrow one.<\/p>\n
\u2022Avoid mindless eating.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t eat while distracted such as when watching TV. Rather sit down at the table to eat which forces you to focus on what you are eating and portion control.<\/p>\n
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