17 Ways to Stay on Track at the Holidays & New Year’s!

November 18, 2016

The holidays can be a struggle! Check out these tips to help you stay on track at the holidays.

The holidays are probably one of the biggest hardships to overcome right after having bariatric surgery. While everyone else is indulging in the festive foods, you are being quietly critiqued as the non-conformer. Some of your relatives might be privy to your weight loss journey, others probably don't have a clue.

Family gatherings turn into a question and answer session of why you aren't eating. They wonder if you are feeling alright? They point out that you don't seem to be your normal self. So, do you share your story with those that don't know or just continue to keep it to yourself as a secret?

For most weight loss surgery patients, the holidays are the ultimate test of fortitude and strength of heart. You know that moment you eat in excess, it won't jive with your dreams of being healthier or thinner. And, just remember your past habits led you to seek out the gastric sleeve procedure (or any weight loss surgery procedure), so allow your surgical tool to help guide you in the right direction.

Don't be tempted. I know it's a struggle. I also know that you can do it. Yes, those meals and desserts look amazing...but think about how amazing you'll look in just a few short months.

7 Tips to Overcome Holiday Food Challenges & Stay On Track

	Have the party at your house. You'll have more control over your food choices and be more comfortable with your surroundings.
	Bring your own dish. If going to someone else's home bringing your own dish will at least give you something to eat that conforms to your needs and help you stay on track with your goals.
	Avoid the richer entrees. Filling up with water 45 minutes prior to eating or starting your meal by consuming soups and vegetables can make craving those non bariatric foods less appealing.
	Eat slow. When you eat at a slower pace, you are less likely to overeat.
	Rely on a partner. Having someone to share your food restrictions with makes staying healthy less daunting and keeps you accountable to your goals. (Being a part of a weight loss family like ObesityHelp.com means you’ll always have someone to help you be accountable!)
	Cut your portions in half. Remember your stomach is a lot smaller now, so you don't need as much food to feel full.
	Listen to your stomach. The moment you feel full stop eating. Just because your eyes and head think something looks amazing, you need to listen to what your stomach is doing. Your sleeve is the tool that will help you become thinner and healthier...learn to listen to it.

Oh, and remember to exercise during the holidays. Even if it's just taking a walk, the exercise will help boost your metabolism to keep you fit and firm.

I know you can do it. I believe in you. Do you believe? I know the intention is there. And, I know a lot of you have written down your resolutions. Things that you want to do, or accomplish or think are good for you in the upcoming year.

What are your resolutions for the New Year? Have you even thought about them?

Did you know that losing weight is at the top of almost everyone's resolution list? Signing up for a gym membership is listed right under losing weight. Sadly, most who write down “going to the gym” fail to follow through and end up stopping within the first month. Losing weight through working out (especially at a gym) becomes a frustration, a burden and sometimes people say mean things, which often discourages those who truly need to lose weight from returning.

You can't let what others might say prevent you from achieving what you want to become.

10 Tips for Losing Weight & Stay On Track After the New Year

	Want it. Yes, you have to want “it”. At some point the desire to be thinner will be stronger than the risk of staying heavy. Embrace it! Use that burning desire to keep moving.
	Stick to it. It's up to you. Make a promise to yourself that you will continue to do whatever you need to do to reach your goal of being thinner. Don't quit.
	Believe in yourself. Know deep down that it will change your life...and save your life. Be your own motivation. You don't need a cape or boots or an “S” on your chest to be super...you just need to believe that you have the power and you can accomplish great things.
	Be fearless. It takes courage to keep yourself on track. Don't let fear stop you. Don't let the unknown hold you back. You can do it.
	Trust your gut. Actually, trust your stomach. Listen to it. It will tell you when it's full. That's the time to stop eating.
	Set your goals and smash them. Set you weight loss goals in increments. Every time you pass those incremental marks (10, 15, 20, 50, 100 pounds) you are conquering your weight and getting closer to a healthier you.
	Get a “diet buddy”. Find a friend, family member or someone who will encourage your and help you stay true to your goals.
	Change your habits. Eat right, exercise, join a support group...if you want to be healthy then you need to change your habits and your routines.
	Stop listening to negativity. Maybe those people mean well, or maybe they don't. Listen to positive thoughts, follow your heart and discover for yourself the joys of a thinner, healthier you.
	Visualize your success. Picture yourself being thinner and healthier every day, follow tips 1-9 and make the new year the best year for you.

Thank you for allowing me to share these Holiday and New Year resolution tips with you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Guillermo Alvarez is a Mexican, board certified, bariatric surgeon who is a member of the prestigious associations ASMBS, IFSO and SAGES. He did his bariatric surgery training in Mexico, USA and France and now he only focuses on the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure and the is author of the book "Successful Weight Loss with the Gastric Sleeve". He heads up the team at Endobariatric Bariatric Center in Piedras Negras, Mexico. Read more articles by Dr. Alvarez!

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