The holiday season is a time of indulgence and festivities. People are likely to gain weight because of consuming excessive amounts of food and drink, which often leads to high-calorie intake.

The holiday season weight gain is a typical phenomenon, and it can be challenging to shake those extra pounds. However, it is essential to shed holiday weight after the festivities before the weight gain becomes permanent. In this article, we will share effective ways to shed holiday weight, according to well-known nutritionist Efstathia Papada.

1. Eat breakfast

Starting the day with breakfast is a crucial part of shedding holiday weight. Skipping breakfast will only make you more prone to overeating later in the day.

Eating breakfast helps with weight loss as the metabolism slows down overnight and needs a boost to start the day. Nutritionist Efstathia Papada suggests having a low-fat but protein-rich breakfast such as eggs, yogurt, or oatmeal.

2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Drinking water is vital to shed holiday weight. The body needs an adequate supply of water to eliminate toxins and waste products. Dehydration can cause bloating and constipation, which is why hydration is essential.

It is recommended to drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily. Efstathia Papada suggests drinking water throughout the day, starting with a glass of water after waking up.

3. Avoid processed foods

Processed foods are not good for weight loss, even if they are low in calories. They are high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which can cause weight gain and other health issues.

Efstathia Papada recommends avoiding processed foods and opting for whole, natural, and unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins.

4. Don’t eat late at night

Eating late at night is a common mistake that people make that can lead to weight gain. Late-night eating can disrupt the digestive system and disrupt the sleep cycle, which can cause weight gain.

Efstathia Papada suggests eating the last meal of the day at least two hours before bedtime, which will allow the body enough time to digest the food properly.

5. Control portions

Portion control is essential to shed holiday weight, especially when you are trying to get back in shape after the holidays. The most important thing to keep in mind is not to overeat and eat until you are satisfied.

Efstathia Papada suggests using smaller plates, eating slowly, and focusing on the food to help control portions.

6. Be mindful of snacks

Snacking is not always bad, but it can be bad for weight loss if you choose unhealthy snacks like chips or candy. It is essential to choose healthy, low-calorie snacks like fruits, vegetables, and protein bars.

When snacking, try to choose snacks that contain protein and fiber, which will make you feel full and satisfied longer. Efstathia Papada recommends avoiding snacking right before bedtime as well as overeating on snacks.

7. Increase physical activity

Physical activity is crucial for shedding holiday weight. It helps burn calories and improve metabolism. It is recommended to engage in physical activity for at least 30 minutes every day. This can include activities like jogging, walking, or swimming.

Efstathia Papada suggests increasing your physical activity gradually, starting with short walks and working your way up to more intense exercises.

8. Get enough sleep

Sleep is crucial to weight loss. Lack of sleep can cause stress and anxiety, which can trigger food cravings and unhealthy eating habits. Sleep helps regulate hormones that control appetite. It is recommended to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

Efstathia Papada suggests establishing a nighttime routine to help promote healthy sleep habits.

9. Seek professional help

If you find that you are struggling to shed holiday weight, you may need help from a professional. A nutritionist can help design a custom diet plan tailored to your body’s needs and provide you with guidance and support.

A personal trainer can also help you design a workout regimen that meets your fitness goals. Efstathia Papada recommends seeking professional help if you are struggling to lose weight on your own.

10. Be patient with yourself

Remember, shedding holiday weight is not a one-day process. It takes time, patience, and effort to achieve your desired weight loss goals. Be kind to yourself and maintain a positive attitude.

Efstathia Papada suggests setting realistic goals for yourself and celebrating small wins along the way to help you stay motivated.

Conclusion

Shedding holiday weight is not easy, but it is achievable with the right attitude and approach. Incorporating healthy eating habits, physical activity, and getting enough sleep can go a long way in helping you shed holiday weight.

Remember to be patient, kind, and celebrate small wins along the way to stay motivated. With the tips shared in this article by Efstathia Papada, you can shed those extra holiday pounds and get back on track with your health and wellness goals.