Celebrate Summer Without the Guilt Trip

lpptkc
Jul 24, 2024
2 min read

Summer is a time for pool parties, barbeques, and holiday celebrations filled with delicious (but not always the healthiest) foods. It’s also prime time for vacations where eating healthy takes a backburner due to convenience and wanting to “enjoy ourselves” on trips. We want to celebrate all the little joys in life (including tasty food), but overindulging can leave us feeling like we’ve blown our healthy eating goals.

Here's the thing: a few “unhealthy” meals here and there won't magically add pounds overnight. It's about embracing moderation, not deprivation.

Let’s say you overate at the 4th of July barbeque and feel like you’ve gained 5lbs in one day. This sensation is common after eating more than your body is used to digesting at once or foods that are higher in sodium leading to temporary water retention. Weight gain/loss is complex and depends on several factors, but in simple terms it takes roughly 3,500 calories to gain 1 pound of body fat. The sensation of weight gain is more likely temporary bloating, a common occurrence after eating a large meal. So, does that mean you should restrict yourself the next day to “make up for it”? No!! Drink plenty of water and focus on eating more fruits/veggies and protein rather than depriving yourself.

Dieting often creates a restrictive relationship with food, making those occasional treats or indulgences feel like failures. Instead, let's focus on mindful eating. Savor the flavors, chew thoroughly, and stop when you're comfortably satisfied, not stuffed. There's no need to demonize any particular food. Enjoy that slice of cake or ice cream! It’s all about balance when forming sustainable habits. If you're generally eating nutritious foods and staying active, those treats become part of a balanced approach, not a setback. Deprivation often leads to cravings and binges. Allowing yourself the occasional treat can actually help you stick to your healthy habits in the long run.

So, ditch the guilt, grab a summer treat, and enjoy the season!