As the festive season approaches, many are already thinking about the upcoming holiday feasts. While Christmas is still several weeks away, it’s common for individuals to start contemplating their weight loss goals in anticipation of indulgent meals, drinks, and snacks. For those eager to shed a few pounds before the year ends, Luke Mitchell, a personal trainer and online coach from North Wales, has outlined three straightforward tips that could help you lose up to 6kg (1st) before the holidays.
Mitchell, who has gained a significant following of 241,800 on TikTok, shared his advice in a recent video aimed at helping people reach their weight loss goals in time for the festive season. He suggests that with dedication and smart choices, dropping a significant amount of weight before Christmas is not only achievable but sustainable.
Here are the three essential strategies Mitchell recommends:
Reduce Calories by 10-15% Below Maintenance
The key to weight loss is creating a calorie deficit, and Mitchell advises cutting your calorie intake by 10-15% under your normal maintenance level. This can be done gradually to avoid drastic changes and to make it easier to stick to over the coming weeks.
Prioritize Whole Foods and Protein
To fuel your body effectively while slimming down, Mitchell recommends focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods. Aim to consume protein-rich meals 80% of the time. Protein helps with muscle retention and promotes satiety, which can be particularly helpful when trying to cut down on snacking.
Incorporate Self-Care to Manage Stress
Emotional eating can derail weight loss goals, especially during the busy and often stressful holiday season. Mitchell suggests incorporating at least three self-care activities per week to manage stress levels. This will help reduce emotional eating triggers, making it easier to stay on track.
In addition to these primary tips, Mitchell offers some practical advice for navigating the holiday period. Reducing alcohol consumption can significantly help with calorie control, as alcoholic drinks are often high in sugar and calories. Furthermore, alcohol can lower inhibitions, making it more likely for people to indulge in unhealthy food choices.
To stay on track, Mitchell encourages individuals to stay active, whether through a brisk walk or more intense workouts such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT). He also suggests cutting back on carbohydrates by opting for lean proteins like meat, fish, or chicken instead of bread and pasta.
Finally, staying hydrated and incorporating fiber-rich foods and healthy snacks into your diet can support weight loss and help curb hunger.
By following these three simple yet effective strategies, Mitchell believes that losing 6kg before Christmas is entirely possible—without the need for extreme dieting or giving up the foods you love.
Related Topics:
What Is the Military Diet Plan
