Contributed by – Healthians Team

It is that time of the year again when you shed the calories gained during the festive season and aim to look your best for New Year’s Eve. Also, with 2020 around the corner, many must have prepared a detailed “to do list” for the next few weeks, months and year. And there is always this one thing at the top of your list that you promise to do each year but find difficult to achieve each time: lose those excess pounds so that you can look and feel slimmer and healthier.

With the party season in full swing, a number of special celebrations are probably about to populate your social calendar, ranging from a bridal shower, a wedding or a New Year’s party. But with the pleasure of meeting loved ones, comes the fear of gaining weight or scoring low on health parameters. Worry not! You can easily celebrate these occasions with your family and friends and still keep your weight and health in check.

Listed below are a few quick tricks. Follow them to enjoy guilt-free celebrations!

Pre-Party

  • Eating a few small snacks at home like a sandwich will stop you from bingeing
  • Curb those dessert pangs with options that are low in calories but big on flavors such as low-calorie desserts or flavourful chewing gum
  • Stay away from super salty foods such as pickles, cured meats, and most frozen meals
  • Say no to carbonated drinks
  • Keep your portions in check
  • Choose plain or grilled chicken, steamed fish or baked vegetables

Post-Party

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Try to include more of fiber-rich diet comprising mostly whole grains, oats, daliya, brown rice etc.
  • Munch foods that are high in water (cucumber, celery or melon) and potassium (banana, apricots, pumpkin) to flush excess water out of your cells and reduce bloating
  • Take some time off to relax and rejuvenate your body
  • Try to include more of veggies and fruits on your plate in order to feel light and healthy
  • Try not to skip exercise

Trying to lose weight is almost everybody’s New Year resolution. But sticking to the good intentions is never easy. One major step towards this “not-so-easily-achievable-goal” is the need to change dietary habits. A conscious decision to consume lots of vegetables, protein-rich foods such as lean meat, fish and nuts and liquids needs to be made. These magic foods increase satiety, cuts down starch and sugar intake, helps reduce snacking and increase metabolism rate. Remember, eating smart by opting for healthier foods will make you feel more energized, fuller yet lighter and healthier.