There are many factors that can lead to the increase in overeating tendencies, especially during the more sedentary seasons (winter and fall). To help identify the problems and figure out the survival mechanisms and solutions to nip that problem in the bud, all you have to do is think in threes.
The Three Culprit Causes of Overeating
You’re all too familiar with the inevitable weight gain that happens almost magically during the winter season and since you’ve come so far on your weight loss journey, all you have to do is recognize the following three main factors that contribute to overeating and you’ve won half the battle. The three culprits include:
• Food-focused celebrations: Socializing events with friends and family usually center around food and drinks, raising the temptation to overindulge.
• Stress: The stress of everyday life can become overwhelming, causing us to turn to food as a coping mechanism.
• Fatigue and Exhaustion: The increasing number of demands and responsibilities we and society put on ourselves can leave us feeling sluggish, tired and sleep deprived. When this occurs, overeating is more likely.
The Three Keys to Survival
To beat the urge and tendency to overeat, arm yourself with these three keys to survival:
• Practice Awareness: Be conscious of what you eat and how much you eat. Allow yourself to indulge in some special treats once in a while, but practice moderation. When there’s a lot of food available, try an appetizer-sized helping of each dish instead of dishing up a full serving. Try to keep up with your exercise even throughout the busy times and get back to your standard healthy routine as soon as possible.
• Manage Stress and Emotions: Whenever you’re feeling stressed, make time to exercise. Exercise can be a great stress reliever. Another way to keep stress at a minimum is to lower some of your expectations and delegate a few tasks, if possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help to lighten your busy schedule. When entertaining, host a potluck meal instead of cooking a full meal. Or, serve it buffet style instead of having a sit-down meal. At social events, don’t fill silence with food. Making an effort to really get to know people at social functions will actually cause you to eat less.
• Plan in Advance: Hunger can undo the best of intentions. Make sure to eat a little before you go to a gathering. While you’re out, avoid sources of temptation whenever you can. Stay away from the buffet table or kitchen at work if people are bringing in treats to share. If you’re traveling, pick up some healthy, portable snacks at the grocery store before you leave so you’ll be less likely to be tempted by unhealthy options. Schedule a brisk walk or hike after a big meal instead of sitting around and doing nothing. Think about what really matters to you and plan accordingly.
The Bottom Line Solution: The Three Keys to Successful Weight Loss
The bottom line is that the winter season will come and go, but unwanted weight gain will stay for a while. U Weight Loss™ is here to tell you that you can stay on the right track by remembering to practice the THREE KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL WEIGHT LOSS not just now, but throughout the entire year.
• Detoxification & Cleanse: Reach weight loss goals with energy and ease all year round. Free your body of toxins, improve digestion, increase your energy and help control your appetite.
• Hormonal Balance: The road to health starts with improved blood sugar control, lowered insulin levels, maintained muscle mass and body fat loss.
• Increasing Metabolism: Set the foundation for all of your healthier tomorrows. Preserve muscle mass, balance out-of-control blood sugar levels, reduce cravings and lose fat around the abdomen.
Even though life can bring on additional stresses and challenges, there are ways to find balance and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
