Winter is on its way and with it, holiday meals, candy, pies, and temptation at every turn. The weather gets colder and the days get shorter, making it more difficult to get outdoors and easier to stay on the couch. So how can you lose weight in winter? Well, keep in mind there are two key factors in successful weight loss: staying fit AND keeping your hunger levels in check.
Here are some tips:
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Do quick workouts:
If you find you just can’t give up an hour or two at the gym every day, shorten your routine to stay motivated. All you really need is 20 minutes every day of aerobic activity, with a few days mixed in for strength training.
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Try new indoor activities:
Good ones to try even though you can’t get outside include martial arts, indoor rock walls, barre, PiYo and hot yoga.
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Track your steps:
Wear an activity tracker and keep a record of how many steps you’re doing a day. It’s a great way to push yourself harder and further. Have a goal, say 10,000 steps a day, and stick to it.
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Switch up your entertainment:
If you can’t seem to stay away from sweets or fatty treats during the holidays, plan Christmas caroling or ice-skating with friends instead of those cookie exchanges and cocktail parties.
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Eat plenty of protein:
You’ll feel full longer and stabilize blood sugar levels. When reaching for snack bars and the like, make sure they have at least 10 grams of protein.
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Drink plenty of water:
With 75 percent of Americans chronically dehydrated, it’s imperative to keep drinking water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. That’s because we often take dehydration for hunger. Drink water or even hot tea to prevent mindless snacking and to increase your energy.
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Be smart about carbs:
Go ahead, eat the bread and pasta, but limit yourself to smart portions. You also have to time your consumption right. Eat carbs after a workout, not before, so your body can use them in the best way possible. Stick to carbs that are healthy for you, such as vegetables, and pair them with beans and dairy.
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Eat meals, don’t skip:
Even if you’re not hungry now, it’s better to have something healthy rather than nothing so you don’t get caught later when your blood sugar drops and you recklessly tear open a package of cookies. Never go to a holiday party hungry, as this virtually destroys your intention of enjoying things in moderation. Eat three to five small meals throughout the day so that when you get to the party at night, you will feel satisfied with just one small slice of apple pie.
Need more help?
Contact us today to learn about our weight loss programs. At Atlanta Medical Clinic, we are dedicated to improving your quality of life.