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The Lap-Band® procedure is the answer many individuals struggling with obesity have been waiting for. Many patients think that once they’ve undergone weight loss surgery and lost the excess weight, then the days ahead will always be bright.
But then come the holidays. Parties become temptation central, with cookies, eggnog, sweet coffee drinks, alcohol, and desserts calling out your name. Coworkers start bringing in treats like donuts, candy, and frappuccinos to the office and it gets harder and harder to say “no.”
To help you fight temptation and maintain weight loss results, here are a few tips you should follow every day, but especially during the holidays.
Drink Lots of Water
Water naturally creates a feeling of fullness, helping to curb appetite and stop cravings. In addition, water is free of calories and sugar, and will support your digestive system. Before you sit down for a meal, drink a glass of water. You may end up realizing you aren’t as hungry as you thought, but were just thirsty.
Avoid energy drinks, sweetened coffee, and juices with artificial flavors. Instead, keep a water bottle with you at all times to remind you to stay hydrated. You can’t go wrong with water!
Plan Meals in Advance
If you’re heading to a party or dinner where you know there’ll be lots of fattening and greasy foods, bring your own healthy dish. Arm yourself with foods you’ll feel good about eating and minimize your need for low-nutrient foods. If you decide to eat the food at the party or dinner, fill your plate with vegetables before indulging in mashed potatoes and cake.
Avoid vegetables coated in butter and sauce and go for steamed or fresh vegetables, instead. If you’re in charge of preparing the family meal, skip the cream, butter, and heavy sauces. Find recipes high in nutrition and low on grease and sugar.
While you’re waiting for the meal to begin, avoid standing next to the appetizer table. Eat some fruit or fresh veggies, instead.
Savor Every Bite
If your eyes can’t believe what they’re seeing — mountains of cookies, dozens of donuts, frosted cupcakes, and fried chicken — then your mind will rush into eating as much as you can as quickly as you can.
The solution is to remain mindful when you’re eating. Chew slowly and enjoy every bite. The food will seem more delicious and you’ll be more aware of feelings of satiety, reminding you to stop eating. Eating too quickly will make it easy to overeat because your stomach won’t have the time to process how full you are. It’s also a good idea to eat regularly, that way you’re not starving when you’re starting a meal.
You’ve probably heard of the suggestion to never go to a grocery store hungry. If you do, you’ll be more likely to give into temptations strategically placed around the store. The chips, the cookies, the high-calorie snacks low on nutritional value won’t help your weight loss journey and you’ll be more likely to make impulse purchases.
