Slimmer Summer

5 Tricks to lose weight this summer

The idea of trying to losing weight over the festive season may seem counterintuitive, but when compared to the alternative of gaining weight (which, according to studies1, is almost bound to happen), it may just be worth trying!

According to Angela Leach, the Head Dietitian for FUTURELIFE® losing weight over the Christmas holidays is not as tough as you think, “With a little willpower, the right mindset and a few tricks for staying on track, it’s completely possible to achieve your weight loss goals.”

She offers 5 tricks to get you started your weight loss journey:

1. Follow an eating plan

The first step to weight loss is to follow a healthy eating plan. It will not only make it easier for you to stay on track, but it will also outline what you can and can’t eat. A good plan is one that is low in fat, sugar and salt. It should include a fair amount of protein and plenty of nutritious vegetables (remember to steer clear of starchy vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas and corn).

2. Eat a high-protein breakfast

A high-protein breakfast plays a vital role in your weight loss journey. It helps replenish your energy, kickstarts your metabolism, decreases your appetite and keeps you fuller for longer. Lean protein food selections such as grains found in FUTURELIFE® High Protein cereals offer the benefits of a protein-rich breakfast, without harmful effects like weight gain or increased cholesterol levels. The best part of the first meal of the day is that it offers a new opportunity to do better. So, even if you fell off the wagon the day before, you can always start afresh with a good, high-protein breakfast!

3. Snack wisely

Snacks have a bad reputation, but they are in fact an important part of the weight loss process. They decrease your hunger, keep you from overeating at meal time and help get you through an afternoon energy slump. The trick is to ensure that you are snacking wisely. This can be particularly tough during the holidays when you are surrounded by Quality Streets and mince pies! Prepare for the moments when you will be tempted to cheat by ensuring that you always have healthy snacks like fresh fruits, unsalted nuts, popcorn, seeds, biltong and yoghurt on standby. The more prepared you are, the less likely you are to give into your impulse of eating foods that are high in sugar and fat, and low in nutritional value.

4. Watch your portions

Watching your portions can be tougher to employ over the holiday season, but it’s not impossible! Use the plate model, which suggests filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, a quarter of your plate with protein and the other quarter with starchy foods. If you feel the need to reach for a second helping, rather drink a glass of water as this will make you feel fuller.

5. Stay hydrated

Water it is crucial for digestion, hydration and can help you feel full. Many studies have also found a correlation between drinking water and weight loss. If you are struggling to get your full two litres in, you can set an alarm for every two hours or simply drink water before and after every meal. Also, avoid fruit juice, flavoured water, ice tea, and any other sugar-sweetened drinks. Lastly, if you enjoy hot beverages like tea or coffee, do not drink more than 3 cups per day, and do not add sugar as this is not ideal for weight loss.

“There is no need to wait for the new year kick-start your weight loss journey. And, the plus side is that if you are successful over the festive season, imagine how much easier it will be when you get back into your work routine. Make this the year that you reach your New Year’s resolutions, before you have even made them!” Angela concludes.

For a 3-day eating plan, courtesy of FUTURELIFE®:

3 Day festive eating plan