The holidays are a time for joy, family gatherings, and of course, delicious food! But if you're following the SlimFast Plan, you might wonder how you can enjoy the season while staying on track with your goals. The good news is that you can celebrate and stay committed to your plan—it just takes a little planning and balance.
Here are some easy tips to help you enjoy the holidays without derailing your progress!
1. Stick to a Routine When You Can
The holidays can throw off your regular schedule with events, parties, and travel. But even with a busy calendar, you can still follow a routine that works for you. Start your day with a SlimFast meal replacement shake, smoothie or a hearty breakfast to give yourself a solid start. Even if your day changes later on with holiday activities, by staying consistent a majority of the time you can better your chances of weight management or weight loss success if you end up overdoing it on an unplanned indulgence.
2. Make Smart Choices at Parties
Holiday parties are filled with tempting foods like cookies, pies, and appetizers. Instead of feeling like you need to avoid these treats completely, practice moderation. Before you go to a party, have a SlimFast shake or snack to help combat your sweet cravings. This way, you're less likely to overindulge.
When you arrive at the event, scan the food options. Try to fill your plate with vegetables, lean proteins, and small portions of 1 or 2 of your favorite holiday treats. The key is to enjoy the foods you love, but in reasonable amounts.
3. Bring SlimFast with You
If you’re traveling or spending the day away from home, packing a SlimFast shake or snack is a great way to stay prepared. Slip a SlimFast snack bar in your bag, or grab a SlimFast shake before heading out the door Having a go-to option at your fingertips can help you make smarter choices, no matter where you are.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
It’s easy to forget about hydration when you’re busy with holiday activities, but drinking enough water is essential for staying energized and on track. Sometimes, we mistake thirst for hunger, which can lead to overeating. Make it a goal to drink water throughout the day, especially before meals and snacks.
If plain water doesn’t sound exciting, try adding a slice of lemon or a splash of fruit juice for flavor. Staying hydrated will not only keep you feeling good, but it will also support your overall wellness.
5. Don’t Skip Meals
With the busyness of the season, it can be tempting to skip meals before a big holiday dinner. But doing so may cause you to overeat later. Instead, aim for balance. Stick to the SlimFast Plan by enjoying a meal replacement shake or smoothie for breakfast and lunch, and save your sensible meal for dinner, practicing portion control and prioritizing protein and veggies when possible.
Keeping yourself fueled throughout the day will help you avoid feeling overly hungry, making it easier to practice portion control and savor your favorite holiday foods.
6. Allow Yourself Some Flexibility
The holidays are special, and it’s okay to enjoy some of your favorite festive foods without feeling guilty. The SlimFast Plan is flexible and allows for a variety of foods, so you don’t have to be perfect all the time. If you have a holiday dinner planned, enjoy it—just try to balance the rest of your day with mindful choices.
Remember, one meal won’t ruin your progress. What matters most is consistency over time. After indulging, you can easily get back on track with the SlimFast Plan by focusing on nutritious, portion-controlled meals.
7. Stay Active
It’s common for exercise routines to get disrupted during the holidays, but staying active is important for your overall well-being. If you don’t have time for your usual workout, try to sneak in activity throughout the day. A walk after a big holiday meal, some light stretching in the morning, or even a quick dance session with family can help keep you moving.
Being active not only helps with maintaining your weight but also boosts your mood and energy levels, making it easier to stay committed to your goals.
8. Set Realistic Goals
During the holidays, it’s important to set goals that are both realistic and achievable. Some may find that instead of focusing on losing weight, aiming to maintain their current progress may be a more appropriate and realistic strategy. By utilizing this approach, it can help take some pressure off and allow you to enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed.
Once the holidays are over, you can jump back into your full routine with the SlimFast Plan and continue working toward your goals.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Holidays with SlimFast
Staying on track during the holidays doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. By planning ahead, making smart choices, and allowing yourself some flexibility, you can stay committed to your SlimFast journey while still enjoying the season.
The holidays are about celebrating, and with the SlimFast Plan, you can do just that—without sacrificing your goals!
Need some additional support from others on the same journey? Don’t forget to check out the SlimFast Together Facebook group!
ABOUT MARYANN
A consultant of the SlimFast Plan, Maryann is a Registered Dietitian with Bachelor of Science degrees in Biological Sciences and Dietetics and a Master of Food and Nutrition. She has extensive experience working with clients of all ages and from all walks of life, helping them to achieve their wellness and weight-loss goals. Learn more about Maryann.