After indulging over the holidays, it can feel kind of disheartening – and difficult – to go back to our normal eating patterns. We asked around for some tips on how to manage these post-holiday blues and get back on track.
“It’s difficult to get back on track during this time because of many factors, like the cold weather, less daylight and the pleasure of holidays,” says dietitian and nutritionist Nicolette Pace.
But there are steps you can take to make it easier on yourself.
Start fresh
“You might be feeling some intense remorse after your holiday-time indulgences. Yet rather than looking back, look towards the future,” says Maple Holistics personal trainer and life coach Caleb Backe. “As cliché as it might be, every day is the first day of the rest of your life. Don’t be riddled with feelings of guilt over what was, since you can’t change it. Instead, make a resolution to take your health back into your hands now.”
Don’t deprive yourself
After indulging for a days or weeks straight over the holidays, it might be tough going cold turkey when the holidays end, Backe says. To make this transition easier, he recommends sticking with a healthy meal plan that allows for occasional indulgences as opposed to something strict and unsustainable.
“This way, you’ll feel like your expectations are actually realistic and doable, so you’ll be more likely to stick with them for longer,” he says.
Eat breakfast
Pace recommends eating within three hours of waking up.
Get your protein and your fibre
Build in protein and fibrous carbs that make it easy to eat healthy – and in a tasty and satisfying way, Pace says.
Hydrate
“Know the amount of hydration you need for your body to work right,” Pace says.
As for next year, here’s how you can set yourself up for success when the holidays come around again – and make it easier to get back on track afterward.
“Schedule a plan and give your body and mind what it really needs!” Pace says. She reminds everyone to nourish themselves and incorporate daily exercise.