Why You Shouldn’t Quit Your Diet During the Holidays

If you have ever been on a diet as the holiday season approaches, you may have had the thought that many dieters before you have: “Maybe I should go off my diet until after the New Year.” It’s an understandable temptation because so many of our holiday celebrations center around food. But quitting your diet completely so you can enjoy the holiday season without restriction is not a good idea, simply because you’ll probably see it as permission to overeat … by a LOT.

As a result, you’ll probably gain back any weight you lost before the holidays rolled around and have to start all over again in the New Year.

A better option would be to stick to a healthy eating plan, but also allow a little bit of room for celebrating.  Here are a couple of ideas for doing that easily:

Just a Taste

When you think about overindulging, you may envision yourself eating a rich meal, a giant slab of pie, maybe a dozen cookies, a cup of egg nog . . . and feeling awful afterward.  You can try many great foods at holiday gatherings – but have just a taste of each one.  Have just a spoonful of the foods that really appeal to you, and of course make room for some healthier options on your plate.

Save Some for Later

Of course, if there are 50 different kinds of Christmas cookies that you want to try, having just a taste of each will still deliver way too many calories.  In that case, why not ask for a doggie bag so you can take a few home?  When you get them home, don’t put them in the kitchen cupboard for easy access!  Separate them, wrap them in plastic wrap, and freeze them.  Once or twice a week, take one out to thaw and enjoy.

Affirm the Importance of Your Goals

If you keep reminding yourself that your weight loss goals are still important to you, it will be easier to stay on track for the most part.  Even if you do overindulge once or twice, you won’t do as much damage as you would be quitting your diet entirely and embarking on a 2-month long binge.

See: What to Do if You Lose Your Motivation for Weight Loss and 3 Tips to Conquer the Obstacles Between You and Your Goals

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