Last week, you enjoyed the (drinking) evenings, birthdays and other barbecues. The problem ? Once you climbed on your scale, you noticed that two extra pounds had arrived. However, should we stick to a “salad” diet to regain our figure? No believes Alexandra Retion, dietician-nutritionist.
“It means that you are lively, sociable and that you love life”, recalls the expert.
No need to feel guilty, these meals are simply part of everyday life. However, a few good practices allow you to reconnect with your feelings… and return to balance. Here they are.
Focus on homemade, simple and colorful meals
After rich or watery meals, “weight may vary slightly, but it is often a case of water retention or slower digestion, not lasting fat gain”, underlines the expert. So, returning to a healthy and balanced diet – without ultra-processed products – is often enough to see the pounds fly away.
Drink water regularly, without waiting until you are thirsty
The feeling of thirst is a late signal: our body has already started to become dehydrated. Drinking regularly – small sips throughout the day – helps to naturally maintain fluid balance, while promoting healthy digestion.
Move naturally, without the obligation to burn
A walk, a swim, is ideal. “It is important to have fun there, while enjoying nature,” underlines the specialist.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is often overlooked, yet it plays a fundamental role in mood, appetite, hormonal regulation, and recovery.
Listen to yourself without judging yourself
Allowing yourself to listen to your desires, needs and pleasures without condemning yourself allows you to build a peaceful relationship with food. Indeed, “guilt has never fueled a healthy relationship with food“, reminds us the expert.
Resumption of good habits without trying to “catch up”
Finally, returning to your daily habits, without restriction or punishment, is recommended. The body is capable of regaining its balance, provided that we trust it.
“The important thing is not what we ate this weekend, but what we get from it in terms of pleasure, memories… and how we choose to take care of ourselves afterwards, gently. No need to (re)start a diet. Regularity, respect for the body and kindness do everything else”, concludes Alexandra Retion, dietitian-nutritionist.