Staying On Track During Family Gatherings

Nothing is better than being surrounded by your family and friends, enjoying a cookout in the backyard, and playing cornhole all day. However, if you are on a weight loss plan, family gatherings may seem daunting.

It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and indulge in refreshing cocktails, chips, greasy burgers and dessert. It’s important that you find a happy medium in which you can enjoy your time with your family and friends and still stick to your health goals.

Don’t Starve Yourself

“Saving” your calories for the family gathering may be one of the worst things you can do. Not only does restricting your food intake affect your metabolism, but it makes binge eating pretty inevitable. If you haven’t eaten all day and wait until 4 p.m. to have your first and only meal of the day, you most likely won’t be able to control yourself, resulting in binge eating.

It is important to stick to your normal eating schedule, giving your body the calories it needs to function properly. When your body isn’t given proper nourishment, you won’t be able to think clearly, have difficulty sleeping, and feel fatigued.

Move Your Body

Instead of camping out at the table full of food or sitting down all day, try standing up and being active. Family gatherings are typically outside or on beautiful days, so enjoy the warm weather and start up a game of kickball or volleyball.

Being distracted by games and other activities will help you avoid grazing on appetizers or reaching in the cooler for another alcoholic beverage or soda.

Choose Healthy Foods

Most of the food you find at typical family gatherings and cookouts include burgers, hotdogs, pizza, chips, and other high-calorie items. This can make it challenging to stay on track when you are on a weight loss program. However, there are ways you can still eat healthy while enjoying your time with friends and family.

Try bringing a healthy dish to share with everyone. Some healthy sides that everyone will love include bean salsa, sweet potato fries, cauliflower tater tots, and kale chips.

Be careful not to overeat or overload your plate. Sticking to one serving is often the healthiest option. If you are still hungry after your first serving, try snacking on vegetables and make sure you are drinking plenty of water, as many people mistake hunger for thirst.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water has several benefits, including aiding in weight loss, boosting metabolism, cleansing the body of toxins and waste, and acting as a natural appetite suppressant. Wherever you go, bring water so you can stay hydrated all day. This will help you feel fuller for longer, which will help aid in portion control and curb cravings.

Contact Garcia Weight Loss

Searching for a way to lose weight and better your health? Garcia Weight Loss and Aesthetic Centers can provide customized plans, personalized supplements, and constant support to get you looking and feeling your best. Book your no-cost consultation today!