Okay, Betties. We held off on this post until after the holiday season. We weren’t about to shame anyone for going back for that second dessert plate. Plus, a new year brings new awareness for building better habits. For many in the new year, that includes better eating habits.
Although we wholeheartedly believe you can meet any New Year’s resolution you set, we know you’re likely to overindulge in the food area at some point this year.
Don’t stress, Betties, we’re here with 6 things you can do to avoid overdoing it.
1.
EAT! (AS IN…DON’T SKIP MEALS)
Believe it or not, this is one of the most common mistakes our Betties report to us. In an attempt to consume fewer calories, they cut out a meal like breakfast. But skipping meals causes the body to crave sugar and other foods high in carbohydrates, because they are fast energy sources. While this energy is being processed in your system, your body is still attempting to compensate for the energy deficit, and you find yourself eating more and more food.
2.
MAKE PROTEIN YOUR NEW BFF
How much do you text your bestie compared to just about anyone else? That’s how you should think about protein…as a priority. Protein has a low glycemic index, meaning it prevents large crashes after a meal. It also takes longer for your body to digest, leaving you feeling “fuller” for longer.
3.
PLATE THE RAINBOW
Adding colorful fruits and vegetables to every meal is a must. Not only do they provide you with beneficial nutrients, they’re also yummy and oh so pretty to look at. So, peek at your plate and make sure you have a nice variety of colors. Our only caveat is to be mindful of vegetable dishes that have extra ingredients, like a lot of butter, heavy cream, or sugar. If they do, eat and enjoy it! Just watch your portion sizes and try to consume smaller amounts.
4.
SET POST-MEAL PLANS
Making a post-meal activity can help prevent you from hovering over the food continuing to graze. Go on a walk. Put the food away and go into the other room. Get out of the house or leave the restaurant quickly. (Hey, we’re just giving you another excuse to go to Target! You’re welcome.)
5.
EAT SLOWLY
Take time to savor your food. Mindful eating will help you stay connected to your physical needs and encourage a healthy mental approach to eating. Plus, allow yourself to enjoy the good stuff in life! Eating is good stuff.
6.
BOUNCE BACK, BETTY!
Okay, so you impulsively decided to eat wayyyy more birthday cake than you planned. Or you downed the entire bag of Cheetos while hanging with your friends. Betties, that’s okay! Don’t punish yourself for occasionally going a little overboard.
Okay, so what if you can’t exactly fire up a time machine to help you go back and implement all the goodies above? No worries, Betties. Read our 5-step guide to bouncing back after overindulging:
Join the conversation