It’s silly season, and we all deserve to let our hair down. But that doesn’t mean you should completely let yourself go, especially as we are heading into summer down here in Australia. Here are some tips to help you control those cravings:

Before I start, some of these tips are obvious, but it’s good for them to be reiterated and summarised as a refresher before our stomachs get stuffed soon!

Drink water before you eat

This is because water provides a sense of fullness prior to eating a meal, hence, you’ll most likely to eating less.

Exercise regularly

As the calorie intake will be inevitably increasing during this period, it’s important to make sure you remain active and keep up with your regular exercise routine so you don’t wake up inflated in the new year. No excuses just because it’s holiday season! 

Don’t try to lose weight over the Christmas season

This follows on from the previous point. Just aim to maintain your current weight, that’ll be classified as a win for most people. 

Control the canapés crave

Silly season means their will parties left, right and centre. You can be silly without eating excessive amounts of food though. Eat before you head to parties to help curb some cravings when you’re at the party so you’re not mindlessly grabbing food on a continuous basis. 

Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep

Staying up late, especially with delicious Christmas leftovers and the mentality that it’s ‘holiday season’ will make it difficult to control the crave. And it can be assumed that the food you’ll be craving is high in calories.

Learn portion control

I know the food on offer is definitely tasty, tastier than usual, but it’s important to not stuff yourself to the point where you’re struggling to breathe. Going for seconds is fine, but when you’re going for fifths and then doing three rounds of dessert, it becomes an issue. Moderation is key, make sure you’re eating with your stomach and not your eyes. 

Watch the alcohol intake

It’s a time where you can enjoy the booze with family and friends, but be conscious as on top of what you eat, alcohol has empty calories, hence there is no macronutrient value in them. Also, when you have a heavy session, your body will crave a large and oily meal afterwards - something you want to avoid. 

Don’t deprive yourself, it’s Christmas, let a little loose, enjoy yourself!