The holidays are here—bringing joy, laughter, family… and temptation. From rich festive dinners to seemingly endless trays of cookies and desserts, it’s no wonder many of us struggle to stay on track. And let’s face it, no one wants to ring in the New Year with extra “holiday baggage.” ?
But guess what? It doesn’t have to be this way! You can enjoy all the holiday magic and still feel amazing. Here are Dr. Nick’s 10 simple strategies to help you avoid holiday weight gain (without giving up your favorite treats):
1. Intermittent Fasting
Skip the late-night snacks and try fasting for 16-18 hours between meals. This gives your body a chance to burn fat, regulate glucose, and recover after those indulgent holiday meals.
2. Burst Training (on an empty stomach)
Kick off your day with a fasted workout to supercharge fat-burning. Whether it’s a quick burst training session or a brisk walk after that big holiday feast, you’ll feel energized and ready to take on the day.
3. Eat Fat First
Before diving into those holiday carbs, load up on healthy fats like butter, avocado, or coconut oil. They’ll keep you full and help you avoid those sugary cravings.
4. Take a Walk After Eating
Don’t let that holiday meal sit heavy. A quick walk after eating helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevents extra calories from being stored as fat. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with family!
5. Eat Similar Meals Before Holiday Dinners
Consistency is key! Stick to a predictable breakfast and lunch so you can keep your calorie intake in check and fully enjoy those festive meals without overindulging.
6. Save Carbs for Dinner
Switch things up by eating protein and fat during the day, and saving those carbs for dinner. This simple trick can help keep your metabolism humming along while avoiding unnecessary fat storage.
7. Choose Healthy Ingredients
When it’s your turn to cook, opt for high-quality ingredients—think local, organic, and grass-fed. Not only will your dishes be healthier, but they’ll also taste better!
8. Use the Ketogenic Diet & Diet Variation
Enjoyed one too many holiday treats? Reset your metabolism with a keto diet and sprinkle in some diet variation every few months to keep your body guessing.
9. Try a Block Fast in January
Say goodbye to the holiday bloat with a 3-4 day fast using water or bone broth. It’s the ultimate way to hit the reset button and start the new year feeling your best.
10. Practice Patience
Lasting results take time. Stick to these strategies consistently, and you’ll thank yourself in the long run. Remember, it’s all about progress, not perfection.
These tips aren’t about skipping out on the fun—they’re about enjoying the season while prioritizing your health. So go ahead, embrace the joy, savor the flavors, and stay mindful of how you feel.
Let’s make this holiday season a time of health, happiness, and balance. You’ve got this!
What are your favorite healthy holiday habits? Drop a comment below or share this post to spread the love (and the tips)! ?
