Food and drink are the focus of most Christmas and New Year plans, making it difficult to stick to your usual weight loss routine at this time of year.
Luckily, an expert has identified the five most common roadblocks to weight loss in winter and how to overcome them.
Dietitian Zoe Griffiths, an obesity management expert and VP of Behavioural Medicine at leading digital healthcare provider, Numan shared her advice.
She said: “The festive season can be a difficult time of year for those looking to lose weight – food feels like it’s at the centre of everything and it can be difficult to find time to exercise.
Many festive events focus on food and drink
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“However, by recognising the common roadblocks, you can ensure you remain on track and start the New Year well on the way to achieving your weight loss goals.”
Increased consumption
The expert warned of eating more than you usually would, as many festive foods are high in calories. She explained: “The festive period brings with it a whole host of calorie-dense meals, snacks and drinks that can quite easily derail your weight loss progress.”
Instead, consider the size of your portions and make healthy swaps where possible. They added: “While it’s important to enjoy yourself at this time of year, try and stick to your usual meal routines, reach for low-fat options where possible and watch your portion sizes.
“Try to plan ahead where possible too – this will make it much easier to stay on track and reduce the need for split decision-making further down the line.”
Reduced activity
Exercise is often the last thing on our minds on dark, wet days, but swapping for lower-intensity workouts can be one way to stay active regardless of the weather. The experts stated: “The dark, cold mornings and evenings can often make it difficult to get outside and exercise.
“Try and stick to your regular schedule where possible, but remember – any activity is better than none. You should also try and walk as many steps as you can each day, working up towards the goal of 10,000 as an average.”
Relying on willpower
“The more you rely on willpower to help with your weight loss, the more challenging things become,” the experts explained.
“Try removing tempting choices out of your environment to help keep you on track, or perhaps try implementing a six-week plan to give you the routine you might need to get you through.”
Weakened immune system
Our overall health can take a hit at this time of year too, causing us to develop unhealthy habits. Sleeping well, exercising and eating a good diet will help support the immune system.
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Going for a walk over Christmas will help you hit your daily step count
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Zoe said: “With the colder conditions providing the perfect environment for viruses to linger for longer periods, it’s unsurprising that so many of us get poorly during the festive period.
“This can leave you fatigued, struggling to exercise, and craving comfort foods. Try boosting your immune system by prioritising sleep, packing your diet with nutrient-dense foods, and getting more exercise.”
Missing medications
Similarly, staying on top of any medication you usually take is vital so you have enough energy to stay consistent with your fitness routine and maintain your overall health.
Zoe concluded: “With it being such a busy time of year, it’s easy to lose track of the days and forget to take any regular medication you might be on.
“If you’re taking any weight management medications, it’s vital that you carry on. All prescribed medicines should be taken as directed by your doctor.
“Staying consistent with prescribed medications can help to maintain the benefits you’ve worked so hard for.”
