You work hard every day during the week, inching faithfully closer to your fat loss goals, and then…. comes the WEEKEND!
So many of us unwittingly sabotage our weight loss goals simply because we fail to plan for the less structured, more social excuses to overdo it weekends. Here are some thoughtful strategies for sailing guilt free through the weekend from SHAPE magazine. After all, Monday is so much easier to face when you have’t had 4 martinis and breakfast at Chubby’s then felt like do-do and simply HAD to have that hangover milkshake on Sunday….. know what I’m talking about????
Crammed with family functions, cocktail hours and barbecues, weekends can be healthy-eating minefields. That’s why we need a plan in place before the weekend!
The problem: Grazing all weekend long.
Why it happens: Without a structured schedule, you grab whatever food is within easy reach.
Rescue remedy: Take 15 minutes midday Friday to review your weekend plans; identify any potential trouble spots (e.g., you’re attending a beach barbecue on Sunday) so you can schedule your meal and snack times around them. By imposing some guidelines, you cut the chances that you’ll nibble mindlessly. Take a moment to write down what you WILL and WILL NOT eat and drink! Making a mindful decision in advance is empowering and gives you less excuses to spontaneously over do it!
The problem: After a tough week you are so ready to melt into the couch — with a big bowl of triple-fudge ice cream.
Why it happens: You’re craving comfort, not food.
Rescue remedy: Brainstorm non-food ways to soothe yourself, like meeting a friend for a walk in the park or getting a pedicure while you catch up on summer reading. If you still need the sugar, you can usually get your fix without putting too big a dent in your diet; click here for Tina’s delicious protein shake recipes!
The problem: All of your social events revolve around food.
Why it happens: With so many tempting items within reach, it seems impossible to avoid blowing your diet.
Rescue remedy: You don’t have to choose between parties (or turn down every single bite). Before you leave the house, have a small, protein-rich snack (to prevent that “I’m starving” feeling). If you’ve eaten an ounce or two of chicken or a nice bite of cheese, it may slow your response time at the buffet. At the party, look at everything that’s being offered first, then zero in on a few items that look too good to pass up and just have those.
Share your successful strategies for the weekend by posting a comment below. It takes a village and you can inspire and support others with your input! Post your ideas!
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