Feeling chonky from all the snacks? You aren’t alone (even though you are isolated). Lots of us are getting our steps up wandering from the couch to fridge and back again. There is nothing wrong with putting on weight, especially in this unusual time, but maintaining a healthy diet and staying active is a big part of good mental health. Many of the internet memes have highlighted the 1pm ‘work’ drinks and constant snacking but if you aren’t feeling great, maybe it’s time to try some new habits.
Hot drinks before cold brewskies
It’s tempting to start the afternoon drinks earlier and earlier- especially when there is nowhere to drive to and nothing to do. Not only is alcohol full of empty calories but it also slows your metabolism, dehydrates you and reduces your inhibitions which stop you from eating the whole packet of family chips in one sitting. Set some clear limits around what you want to drink and try choosing a green or herbal tea instead. The hot liquid fills you up, the antioxidants are great for you and you can keep a clear head. Also think about why you are wanting that beer or wine- so you need a break? Instead of tuning out with booze, give yourself permission to take a 20minute game/ puzzle/ reading break from your work. Slacking off is still a better choice than blacking out!
Water goals are their own reward
Boredom snacking is a thing but the antidote is simple: water. Dehydration can sometimes feel like hunger but unlike snacks, water won’t weigh you down. Keep a water bottle at hand near your workstation and set a challenge to drink through 2 litres minimum a day. Slow and steady is better than all in one go.
The advantage of lots of water is lots of toilet breaks! Break up your workday to fill your water bottle and use the bathroom- what variety! If you want to jazz up your water, add slices of lime or lemon, cucumber and mint or slices of ginger. Ooooh, what a tasty hydration cocktail!
Raw, Fresh, Crunchy: Snack Substitutes
No one can deny that chips are the most delicious snack, no wonder seagulls will kill for them. Alas, you can have too much of a good thing so it’s time to ditch salty snacks and colourful lollies for the crunch and colour of raw fresh veggies. Our bodies are primed to sugar and fat so they will leave us wanting more until we feel sick. Cut up some cucumber, celery and carrot in a container and put some chopped apple and orange in the fridge and you have your savoury and sweet snacks for the day. It will take a week to adjust your tastebuds but I promise you will feel fresher for it. Be like a productive rabbit and nibble your way through the day!
If you need some one-on-one personal training to kick back into good habits, reach out.
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