The holidays are a wonderful time of year filled with parties, gatherings, and delicious food. Unfortunately, it’s also a time of year when many of us tend to gain a little bit of extra weight.
If you’re hoping to shed those holiday pounds, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of 30 clever ways to lose holiday weight that will help you get back on track with your health and fitness goals.
1. Drink More Water
Drinking water throughout the day can help keep you feeling full and reduce your overall caloric intake. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water each day, or more if you’re exercising or sweating a lot.
2. Eat More Whole Foods
Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins are packed with nutrients and fiber that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Focus on filling your plate with whole foods at every meal to help you lose weight.
3. Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Alcohol is high in calories and can also lower your inhibitions, which can lead to overeating. Try to limit your alcohol intake or opt for lower calorie options like vodka soda or wine spritzers.
4. Get More Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential for weight loss and overall health. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help keep your body in top shape.
5. Eat More Protein
Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, and can also help keep you feeling full. Focus on adding protein to every meal to help you lose weight.
6. Use Smaller Plates
Using smaller plates can help you eat less without feeling deprived. Try using a salad plate instead of a dinner plate to help keep your portions under control.
7. Find a Workout Buddy
Working out with a friend can help keep you motivated and accountable. Find a workout buddy to join you for a fitness class, outdoor run, or gym session.
8. Use a Food Scale
Using a food scale can help you accurately portion out your meals and track your caloric intake. This can be especially helpful if you’re trying to lose weight.
9. Eat Slower
Eating slower can help you feel more satisfied with less food. Try putting your fork down between bites or chewing each bite thoroughly to slow down your eating.
10. Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping meals can actually lead to weight gain, as it can slow down your metabolism and make you more likely to overeat later on. Make sure to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, and include healthy snacks if needed.
11. Track Your Progress
Tracking your weight loss progress can help keep you motivated and on track. Use a food journal, fitness app, or tracking website to help you stay accountable.
12. Take the Stairs
Add more physical activity to your day by taking the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. Even small amounts of movement can add up over time.
13. Avoid Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks like soda, juice, and sports drinks are high in calories and can contribute to weight gain. Opt for water, sparkling water, or unsweetened tea or coffee instead.
14. Pack Your Own Lunch
Packing your own lunch can help you control your portions and avoid unhealthy fast food options. Try packing a salad with lean protein or a whole grain wrap with vegetables.
15. Try High-Intensity Interval Training
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a great way to burn calories and boost your metabolism. Try adding a HIIT workout to your fitness routine a few times a week.
16. Learn to Say “No”
Social situations can often lead to overeating or drinking. Practice saying “no” to unhealthy foods or drinks that don’t align with your weight loss goals.
17. Snack Smart
Choosing healthy snacks can help keep you satisfied between meals and prevent overeating. Try snacking on fruit, nuts, or vegetables with hummus or guacamole.
18. Do Bodyweight Exercises
Don’t have access to a gym? You can still get a great workout at home with bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and lunges.
19. Cook Your Own Meals
Cooking your own meals can help you control the ingredients and calories in your food. Try searching for healthy recipes online or experimenting with different spices and flavors.
20. Get Outside
Spending time outside can help boost your mood and increase your physical activity. Try going for a walk, hike, or bike ride outside to help you lose weight.
21. Practice Mindful Eating
Mindful eating involves paying attention to your food and enjoying each bite. Try eating without distractions like television or your phone to help you focus on your food and prevent overeating.
22. Do Yoga
Yoga is a great way to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength. Try joining a yoga class or practicing at home to help you lose weight.
23. Try Meal Prepping
Meal prepping involves preparing your meals in advance to help save time and make healthy eating easier. Try planning and prepping your meals for the week ahead.
24. Go for a Walk After Meals
Taking a short walk after meals can help aid digestion and boost your metabolism. Try going for a 10-15 minute walk after each meal to help you lose weight.
25. Choose Healthy Fats
Healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil can actually help you lose weight. Try incorporating healthy fats into your meals to help keep you satisfied.
26. Try a New Sport
Trying a new sport or fitness activity can help challenge your body and prevent boredom. Try signing up for a local sports league or trying a new workout class.
27. Hydrate with Electrolytes
Drinking fluids with electrolytes, like coconut water or a sports drink, can help replenish your body after a workout and prevent dehydration.
28. Choose Lean Proteins
Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and beans can help keep you full and satisfied without adding extra calories. Choose lean proteins at every meal to help you lose weight.
29. Practice Self-Care
Self-care is essential for overall health and can also help reduce stress, which can contribute to weight gain. Take time out of your day to practice self-care activities like meditation, journaling, or taking a relaxing bath.
30. Get Support
Getting support from friends, family, or a healthcare professional can help you stay motivated and on track with your weight loss goals. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you need extra support or guidance.