As the weather continues to warm up and the flowers continue to bloom, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of spring. However, for many people, this season can also bring about some common weight gain struggles. If you’re worried about packing on the pounds this spring, here are some ways to avoid these common pitfalls.
Overcome spring weight gain with these 7 tips:
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Don’t overindulge in seasonal treats
Spring is known for its tempting treats, such as Easter candy and ice cream cones. While it’s okay to indulge occasionally, it’s important not to overdo it. Instead, try to find healthier alternatives, such as fresh fruit, frozen yogurt, or a classic childhood favourite jumbo freezes!
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Stay active
Now that the weather’s warmer, but not at summer’s boiling points, it’s important to get active outside. Exercise can help you burn calories and boost your metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. Consider trying new outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, roller-blading, rowing, or give pickleball a try to keep things interesting.
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Avoid skipping meals
Skipping meals can actually lead to weight gain, as it can slow down your metabolism and cause you to overeat later on. Instead, aim to eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day. This will help stabilize your blood sugar and reduce the likelihood of overeating. Meal planning can really help you avoid skipping meals, as you’ll have food prepared when you’re hungry, rather than having to prepare food when you’re already hungry. With that in mind, see 32 Meal Planning Tips That Will Make Your Life Easier from Taste of Home to help you better your meal planning.
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Limit alcohol consumption
Spring is a popular time for outdoor gatherings and events, many of which involve alcohol. However, drinking too much can lead to excess calories and dehydration. Instead, opt for lower-calorie options, such as light beer or a glass of wine, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. As another idea, you could try the very trendy option of mocktails! Mocktails are beautiful and can be fairly healthy, so you can still get that “spring-drinking” vibe, without the hangover. Here are 7 Healthy Low-Sugar Mocktail Ideas from FitOn worth trying.
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Be mindful of portion sizes
It’s easy to overeat when you’re enjoying a delicious meal or snack. To avoid this, pay attention to your portion sizes. Use smaller plates and bowls, and take your time eating to give your body a chance to feel full. Eating slowly is not easy, but it really does help you eat more consciously. With that said, here are 12 Ways To Slow Down Your Eating And Stop Inhaling Your Food from Buzzfeed to help you slow down and be more mindful of your portions.
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Choose healthy foods
Spring is the perfect time to start incorporating more healthy foods into your diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant this season, and they can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Aim to fill your plate with lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of colorful produce. To help you fill your plate with the ripest food for the month, see the Food Network’s guide to Canadian fruits and vegetables by month HERE.
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Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining a healthy weight. It can help you feel full and reduce cravings, making it easier to stick to your healthy eating plan. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, and consider adding lemon or other fruit to your water for a refreshing twist. To help you drink more water here are 12 tips simple and easy tips from Healthline.
In conclusion, spring can be a challenging time for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. However, with a little bit of planning and effort, it’s possible to avoid these common pitfalls. By staying active, choosing healthy foods, and being mindful of your portion sizes, you can enjoy all that this season has to offer without worrying about gaining weight. Remember, small changes can make a big difference, so start small and work your way up to bigger goals. With time and consistency, you’ll be able to maintain a healthy weight and enjoy all that spring has to offer.
For more weight loss tips, check out some of our other Wellness Articles below:
