Kick-Start Your Nutrition Plan

The holidays are over, and even though we tried our best, one too many cocktails or sweet temptations may have breached our lips. It’s okay. It happens. Don’t be too hard on yourself, shake it off and kick-start 2013 with a fresh nutrition and fitness outlook.  

Easy Does It

If you’ve overindulged during the holidays, you may hear the clarion call, “Drastic times call for drastic measures!” It’s tempting to go overboard and aim high. Instead, ease into a healthy routine by setting realistic fitness and diet goals. For example, start each day with a nutritious breakfast, go for a brisk walk or eat slower and savor the flavors of your meal.

Curb The Carbs

Cut back on carbs but don’t eliminate them. Your body will burn protein for fuel instead of using it to support and maintain your calorie-burning muscle. Replace nutrient-empty processed sugar with nutrient-rich whole grains, fruits and vegetables. To round out your meals, add lean protein such as tofu, beans, fish or poultry and a little bit of healthy fat like extra-virgin olive oil or chopped avocado.

Plan For Success

You already know there’s no shortcut to weight loss, and an easy way to ensure success is to plan your meals and workouts. Take a half hour each week to plan healthy meals and make a grocery list at the same time. That way, you’ll never wonder what’s for dinner and you’ll always have nutritious meals on hand.     

Pamper The Positive

Relish in your accomplishments and pamper yourself when you’ve reached a goal. Even the small goals count, like drinking more water or attending one more Jazzercise class. Spend quality time with your girlfriends, or treat yourself to a new pair of shoes or workout clothes. Reconnect with the power of the mind-body connection and let those endorphins fly!

The holidays happen. Life happens. Don’t let them derail your diet and fitness goals. Just make a few tweaks, and get back in the gym. You’ll be looking great and feeling fit in no time!