For many people, the holiday season is an excuse to treat themselves to all their favorite foods, from carb-heavy comfort dishes like mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese to decadent desserts and sugary alcoholic beverages. After months of self-indulgence, it is no wonder that losing unwanted pounds and getting back into shape is such a widespread New Year’s resolution.

However, what if you did not need to kick off 2022 regretting holiday weight gain and struggling to get back on the right track? Here are our tips for staying slim before, during, and after the holidays.

1. De-Stress Your Life

Between the pressure to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list and the obligation to attend gatherings with family and friends, the holiday season can be a uniquely stressful time. Weight gain is one of the many adverse health effects of chronic stress. The “stress hormone” cortisol can increase your appetite and cause cravings for sweet, salty, and fatty foods. To avoid overindulging in these unhealthy snacks in response to tension and anxiety, practice more self-care and do not let your established fitness regimen fall by the wayside. Other options for reducing stress include yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises.

2. Bring a Healthy Dish to Share

Most of us get invited to one or more potlucks with family and friends during this time of year. You can help yourself avoid the temptation to overeat by bringing a filling, nutritious side dish featuring whole, unprocessed foods. Vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, and broccoli all taste delightful when roasted, and they are excellent sources of fiber. This means they will keep you feeling full longer. Legumes such as lentils, peas, and beans are packed with fiber and protein for a one-two punch of nutrition and satisfaction.

3. Use a Smaller Plate

Have you ever heard the phrase “your eyes are bigger than your stomach”? People tend to load larger plates with more food, thus leading to overeating. If you are going to a holiday party with buffet-style food, bring a smaller plate from home or grab a plate from the dessert station instead of using a full-sized dinner plate. Having less space will force you to be much more selective about the dishes you choose to sample, thus allowing you to control your consumption.

4. Practice Mindful Eating

Do you have a bad habit of eating while doing other things, like working or watching television? People who eat with distractions present are less likely to notice their body’s fullness signals. If this happens, it can lead to overeating and weight gain. To prevent this, limit interruptions from technology during mealtimes. Also, put your utensils down between bites and chew slowly and thoroughly and take time to appreciate the sensory experience of the food you are eating. You may also want to take a few deep breaths before you start eating. As you do so, focus on your plate and give your full attention to the meal you are about to enjoy.

Your Journey to a Better You Begins Here

Being at or near your goal weight is a prerequisite for many of Dr. Teotia’s body procedures, including tummy tucks, liposuction, and lifting surgeries. If you are planning to schedule your plastic surgery this winter[LC1] , you will want to stay disciplined and determined without letting the holidays distract you from your ambitions. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with one of the leading female plastic surgeons in the Dallas area.