Ten tips to get rid of the Holiday Flab

Indulging in winter getaways is a common practice. As soon as you reach back home, you realize the ill effects of over-eating, drinking, and no exercise.

Drink lots of water

Around 70 % of our body constitutes water and so it extremely essential for our system. You should have around 2.5 to 3.5 liters of water every day. Adequate consumption of water flushes out toxins and hydrates the system. You can also flavor water with herbs or fresh fruit slices. This way you will get an extra dose of antioxidants that will help to boost your immunity and digestive system.

Cut down on carbs

It is a common misconception that a zero carb diet can help you to stay healthy. But the fact is that carbs act as fuel for the body and provide energy. Our daily diet should contain 65-70 % of carbohydrates but in the form of complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrates fuel the body so that it can burn fat optimally.

Increase protein intake
Consuming protein lowers down the post-prandial blood glucose levels and ensures a gradual rise in blood glucose. Try to include protein in every meal such as having baked chicken or fish with sauté vegetables for lunch and dinner. You can also go for skimmed milk and milk products if you are a vegetarian. Lentils and legumes are full of fiber and a great source of protein so try to include them in your meals. It also promotes the feeling of satiety.

Stay away from fad diets

A balanced diet is the most helpful in reducing weight so you should stay away from fad diets completely. Eating the right kinds of food at the right intervals is what matters. You need to keep your portions in control in every meal to prevent binge eating. Fad diets may have adverse effects on your body.

Eat slowly

You should take enough time to finish your meal. Try to eat slowly by chewing properly and stop eating when you are about 70 to 80% full. This will help you understand your gut better and prevents overeating. When you eat fast, you are more likely to overeat.

Walk, and then walk some more

A 45 minutes morning or evening walk helps maintain weight. A brisk walk is good for your brain health and also combats insulin resistance. Hence, it helps to decrease your risk of metabolic syndrome and obesity. Gear up for an active walk session by wearing clothes that are not too tight and comfortable shoes.

Crunches can save your day

Crunches may help you reduce your paunch if you are unable to hit the gym. Start your day with some warming up exercises and then target your paunch with crunches. Even when you are doing your daily activities, make sure you pull in your stomach and your back remains straight while sitting.

Take up a de-stressing activity

When you are stressed, you tend to overeat. This process is also called emotional eating.So it is better to de-stress. You can do it by taking up your favorite hobby and spend time outdoors. Try to meditate, read a book or go for a dance or yoga class.

Stay away from temptation

Try to reduce your cravings for unhealthy food items like sugary chocolates, pastries, and fried foods. Eating a balanced diet with appropriate amounts of protein helps to curb sugar cravings.

Ban the following completely for the next 10 days:

• Red meat
• Sweets
• Canned foods
• Junk foods like burger, pizza, pasta, etc
• Cold aerated drinks
• Canned juices
• All kinds of outside food
• Avoid over-eating

Over to You

The next time you find yourself dodging away from these healthy habits, just remember why you started and imagine yourself fitting into your favorite clothes.