The holidays are nearing, and the world is filled with festive food, drinks, and desserts. For many people, this time of year has become synonymous with indulging in everything sweet. But for those who follow a keto diet (a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet), it can be harder to stick to your typical routine during this time of year. Luckily, you can implement some simple strategies that will allow you to still enjoy all of the holiday festivities without having to give up on your keto diet. The blog post below explains three tips for sticking to the keto diet this holiday.
1. Beware of Hidden Carbs
Carbohydrates are one of the main culprits for weight gain, so finding ways to reduce them in your diet is always a good thing. Many people tend to indulge in carb-heavy treats such as cookies, candies, and pies during the holidays. And even though these foods might not look like they contain carbs (because they look like desserts), the truth is that most of them do. One example we can use is cookies. Although you might see a cookie and think, “okay, it doesn’t look so bad, after all, there is no pasta or rice in it,” but don’t be fooled because cookies contain sugar alcohol (which your body treats like carbs, even though they don’t spike your blood sugar), flour (which is many carbs packed into one), and sometimes even potato starch (a thickening agent that is derived from a starchy root).
2. Ignore Negative Feedback and Stick to Your Goals
When you attempt to change your lifestyle, even if it is seemingly inconsequential as altering your eating habits, others will likely try to persuade you that what you are doing is wrong. For example, the holidays are full of parties where food and drinks are abundant. If someone offers you a drink or dessert, many people feel obliged to accept it. You should not feel pressured to make an exception for yourself if you know deep down that you don’t want to and that it would go against all of your hard work.
3. Focus on Non-Food Activities
One way to avoid the pressure of eating certain foods is to focus on non-food activities. This can be anything from spending time with family to watching a movie or going for a walk in the park. By putting yourself into an environment where you are otherwise occupied, you are less likely to think about food all day long. These are just a few simple tips that can help you to stay on track during the holiday. While it may be difficult at first, you will find that it is much easier than giving in to the constant temptation of sugary foods and drinks. Plus, once your body adjusts to the keto diet, you will start feeling better and loving your new lifestyle.
The holidays are a difficult time of year to stick to your keto diet. There is so much food and drink everywhere you turn, and it can be hard not to overindulge. But by following some simple strategies such as avoiding breaded/creamed foods, ignoring negative feedback that others will give you about your diet, and focusing on other activities instead of obsessing about food, you should be able to overcome the urge to eat sugary dishes and drinks. By sticking with your diet, you will reap all of the health benefits that come from it and avoid any negative side effects.