Whether you’re about to embark on a transformative weight loss journey, or are in the middle of one, the run up to Christmas in December is always a challenge.
From the booked-up calendar of food or alcohol-based events to the stress of organization and the big day itself, it can sometimes feel virtually impossible to stay on track. That’s especially the case when you are working towards long term goals and trying change the relationship you have with food.
Here at Bodyline, we take a holistic approach to weight health and wellness. That means taking into account the whole person, including their social life and desire to enjoy celebratory events like Christmas.
Patients on our medical weight loss programmes aren’t expected to avoid traditional celebrations for the purpose of weight loss – that’s simply unsustainable. It’s a well known fact that this is the time of year when people are most likely to gain weight, and it’s less weight than you may think!
Instead, in our fully supported treatment programmes, we work with patients to provide practical tips that ensure they are still prioritising healthier habits that can be sustained across a lifetime – not picked up and dropped as and when.
We’ll split this article into the five key pitfalls of December during a weight loss journey in the run up to Christmas: festive foods, free-flowing alcohol, cosy “couch potatoes”, high stress, and a lack of routine.
These are vital elements for an enjoyable and cosy festive period in the wintertime, but as with anything – it should be enjoyed in moderation. If your focus is to transform your body, attitude, and health, then use this Christmas time to gift yourself a healthier, more sustainable approach to weight health management.
Contact Bodyline today to find out more about our safe and effective weight loss programmes and range of treatment options.
Festive Foods: the first hurdle in December weight loss
There is always so much food at this time of year. From Christmas dinners to party food, festive market stalls to chocolatey gifts, the temptation can feel overwhelming.
Sustainable and holistic weight loss approaches, like those used at Bodyline, let us enjoy all these things… but in moderation. We just have to plan around them!
As with any day of the year, it’s best to prioritise three balanced meals a day with high levels of protein, plenty of fibre, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. High protein meals keep you fuller for longer and less likely to crave snacks or foods high in salt, sugar and saturated fats. That’s because eating protein actually enhances the natural release of the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like-peptides 1), particularly when consumed with calcium. That’s why eating a breakfast of high protein Greek yoghurt with fruit and seeds is such a great way to start your day.
Extra Xmas Tip: You can make a Greek yoghurt breakfast feel a little extra festive by adding dried apricots, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a tablespoon of chocolatey granola!
When faced with a wide array of treats, especially when at events, parties, or family meals, it’s always a good idea to mentally set yourself a limit – be that in calories or portions. If you’re worried about self-control, it can help to sit away from the foods to avoid the temptation to continually pick over any buffets.
Weight loss injections prescribed within our nurse-led supported programmes have been shown to reduce cravings and desire for snacking in a huge majority of our patients, helping them not only lose weight, but also improve their relationship with food.
That’s because medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide also target the appetite centre of the brain, reducing ‘food noise’ and the desire for snacks.
Find out more by getting in touch with our customer service team.
Alcohol and weight loss: how to find balance
It’s party season! That means the annual work do, the family gathering, and maybe even an open bar (if you’re lucky).
Alcohol can help us loosen up and celebrate, and for those who partake, can be a key element of the festivities. However, alcohol is very high in sugars, calories, and often increases the appetite leading to late night feasts.
High levels of alcohol consumption are linked to obesity, however, when drunk in moderation, that link decreases. As with everything, we have to find a balance.
Please note: if you’re using a medical weight loss medication, it’s vital you speak with your clinical nurse to ensure the prescription is not impacted by alcohol.
So, what should we be drinking when prioritising a weight loss journey?
If your favourite tipple is a spirit and mixer, choose white spirits over dark for a lower calorie drink; gin and vodka rather than bourbon or dark rum. As for your mixers, opt for a sugar free or diet alternative. It’s also a good idea to go for singles to reduce the calories even further (and the price!)
If you prefer a wine, why not choose some bubbles? A glass of prosecco is only 80 calories, and certainly fits with the celebratory mood!
If beer is your thing, we recommend opting for bottles for each round to reduce the amount you’re drinking. Plus, there are plenty of low-calorie beer options you can choose from! Even low alcohol if you’re the designated driver!
Cocktails are always a fun addition to a night but can be packed full of sugary drinks and fruity juices. If you’re keen to get one, try a spritz or gin fizz, which is often topped with prosecco and soda water – two low calorie cocktail ingredients!
It cannot be overstated that as with everything, we should be consuming alcohol and other high calorie food and drinks with caution and moderation.
Staying active and on track in the winter months
Nights are getting darker, the weather’s getting colder, and the motivation to get out and exercise in the mornings or evenings is dwindling… This time of year is the easiest time to fall back into being a cosy couch potato.
But when you’re attempting a life-changing weight loss journey, these excuses can get in the way of maintaining a solid routine and building life-long habits.
So how can we stay active when it’s the last thing we want to do?
Well, it’s a good idea to use the colder weather to our advantage – jogging and brisk walking in the cold can help us go a little longer, as there’s no heat or humidity to contend with.
Be sure to layer up with gloves, thermal active wear, and good quality socks!
Another great way to stay active is by bringing the workout indoors. With just a yoga mat and a YouTube video you have the ability to take part in any workout you like! There are so many cardio and strength-based workouts to be done from home, with expert guidance and advice from fitness influencers.
There are even some wintery and Christmas themed ones!
How stress can pull you off track
One element of December that can be forgotten is the stress involved in planning, organising, and meeting up with family. From money worries and present buying to calendar organisation and meal prepping, the festive period can be a lot of responsibility and cause stress to many.
Problem is, high stress levels can really pull you off track your weight loss goals. Stress itself can cause a number of biochemical changes that impact your body’s behaviour, fat storage, and reactions to food intake.
Stress impacts your metabolism, your cortisol levels, and your hormones, which all impact your ability to gain or lose weight.
Therefore, ensuring you have processes in place to properly deal with stress is beneficial for the end of the year. These can include exercise (see above), sleep, meditation, and enough relaxation.
December routines to prioritise weight loss
Curating a routine for your weight loss journey can help you lose the healthily and consistently. The problem in December is finding the motivation to stick to it. With so much going on, and especially in the week between Christmas and New Years Eve, life stands still, and it’s easy to fall back into old habits.
However, when you have an idea of what each day looks like in terms of food, activity levels, and how they fit alongside your everyday life, the weight can drop off easily!
Consistency is key to successful weight loss, and the best way to be consistent is through a routine that ensures you remain in a caloric deficit. Try to stick to your usual routine even when your days are muddled, and you’ll still feel as though you are being productive and working towards your goals.
Weight loss support to help you stick to your goals
If you have struggled in the past to stick to weight loss plans or diets, you might want to consider a medical weight loss programme supported by Bodyline Clinics. We offer personalised plans that are guaranteed to see you lose weight effectively and safely.
Over 100,000 have reached their weight loss goals with the help of our appetite suppressants, prescribed by our team of experienced nurses and doctors.
Enquire today by calling 0800 995 6036 or fill in our online contact form for a call back from one of our weight loss customer service team. Bodyline works and Bodyline cares.
