Diet and December don’t usually go hand in hand. The month is filled with sweet temptations and home-cooked family meals. So what are the Dos for the Holidays? Let’s find out.
1.Be as active as possible.
Sport and cold air can help you lose weight faster in the winter. Nearly half of the daily caloric intake is burned by the body to maintain an optimal body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius. The lower the temperature, the more calories your body will be forced to burn. Therefore, do not run away from the cold of winter. Take advantage of its presence to lose weight! You have a lot of winter activities that help you burn calories. For example, 30 minutes of skating will help you burn about 250 calories, while skiing makes you burn 300 calories.
2.Consume foods rich in water
Foods that have a high water content are perfect in winter when moisture is no longer the same as in the summer. Water deficiency can be recovered from food. First, try to eat soups or vegetable soups every day. Besides hydrating your body, you will quickly get the feeling of satiety and you will assimilate a lot of nutrients. It is also advisable to consume as many fruits and vegetables as they have a high water and fibre content.
3. Eat protein
Proteins are essential nutrients for the slimming process because they stimulate the metabolism, accelerate fat burning and help increase muscle mass. In the winter, the best source of protein is vegetables. Beans, peas and lentils, for example, quickly give you the feeling of satiety and help you consume fewer calories. Good sources of protein are eggs and meat, but you have to choose a lean meat, especially chicken or turkey. If you eat protein in the winter, you will look sensational in the spring.
Try to reduce the fats in the diet!
You can do this if you consider:
Avoiding the fries
Consuming only lean meats
Using oils, especially cold pressed and eating fish, raw nuts or hazelnuts
4. Respect your schedule and reduce the portions
If you want to slim in the winter and look sensational in the spring, try to respect the 3 main meals of the day and reduce the portions, so not to exceed the daily caloric intake.
5. Avoid drinking alcohol!
Alcohol means seven calories per gram and promotes the formation of fat deposits, which can be considered as a risk factor for obesity. You should pay attention to beverages such as beer or sweet drinks!
6. Watch out for carbohydrates!
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy. If we consume them excessively they will be transformed into lipids. They are found in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, but also in white bread, potatoes and pastry.
Fruit juices can also become the enemy of a balanced diet because of the high sugar content. You can choose to consume fresh fruits that have extra fibre reducing the absorption of carbohydrates. Avoid carbonated or non-carbonated drinks such as ice-tea or smoothies. Read the labels carefully! Drink instead water or unsweetened teas.
7. Eat small portions and as often as possible!
Breakfast is the best friend of a healthy diet. It should become the most important meal because it provides the energy we need for the whole day. We can consume protein, carbohydrates, but also vegetables or fruits as a source of fibre and phytonutrients. So set up a regular program with three meals and one or two snacks a day. This way you will avoid overeating and can portion your food to work in your favour.
Here are 7 foods that are our ally during the winter diet:
1. Oatmeal
According to a study, people who eat oats at breakfast eat one third fewer calories at noon. Oatmeal is healthy and full of nutrients and phytochemicals.
2.Pomelo.
It is an excellent choice for a snack in the winter days. It is full of antioxidants that prevent the spread of carcinogenic cells. It is also rich in folic acid and potassium.
3. Sunflower seeds.
They are an excellent source of vitamin B, protein and folic acid. The seeds also help to protect our immune system. They are full of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps maintain skin and hair health.
4. Honey is the most natural sweetener you can find. But take great care – it has more calories than sugar. It is an excellent source of antioxidants and antibacterial properties make it an ally of hope during the winter.
5. Black chocolate
Losing weight may become impossible if you have a too restrictive diet. Dark chocolate in small quantities can successfully satisfy your sweet appetite during a weight loss treatment.
