Tet is a time when people often indulge in more food, leading to unwanted weight gain. However, with some smart tips and a well-planned approach, you can successfully manage your weight during this festive period.
Causes of Weight Gain During Tet
Rich and Calorie-Dense Menu
Traditional Tet dishes such as sticky rice cakes, meat stew, sausages, sweets, and candied fruits are all high in calories. Uncontrolled eating can easily lead to an energy surplus.
During Tet, prioritize consuming more vegetables and fruits while limiting fatty foods (Photo: N.P).
Frequent Snacking
Tet is a time when snacks like candies, dried fruits, and sweet treats dominate. Constant nibbling can lead to unnoticed consumption of large amounts of calories.
Reduced Physical Activity
During Tet, people tend to spend more time resting, watching movies, or browsing social media. Combined with overeating, this lack of movement can easily lead to fat accumulation.
Consumption of Alcoholic and Sugary Drinks
Alcoholic beverages and sugary drinks not only contain high amounts of sugar and calories but also increase appetite.
Solutions for Managing Weight During Tet
Smart Food Choices
- Prioritize Vegetables and Fruits: Opt for vegetables, fruits, and dishes like salads that provide fiber and help you feel full longer.
- Limit Fatty Foods: Instead of frying, choose steamed, boiled, or grilled options to reduce fat intake.
- Control Portion Sizes: Use smaller plates to limit portion sizes and avoid overeating.
Overindulging in fried foods, losing control over eating, and drinking sugary beverages can contribute to weight gain (Photo: N.P).
Adjust Eating Habits
- Eat Slowly and Chew Thoroughly: This helps the brain recognize satiety signals, preventing overeating.
- Avoid Eating Late at Night: Allow your body sufficient time to digest before sleeping to prevent fat buildup.
- Do Not Skip Meals: Maintain regular meals, especially breakfast, to avoid hunger pangs that may lead to overeating later.
Limit High-Calorie Beverages
- Drink More Water: Hydration aids in detoxification and reduces appetite.
- Moderate Alcohol and Sugary Drinks: If consumed, balance them with water to minimize calorie intake.
Increase Physical Activity
- Engage in Light Exercise: Spend time walking, playing light sports, or doing household chores to burn excess energy.
- Maintain Regular Exercise: If you have an exercise routine, try to stick to it even during Tet breaks. Just 15-30 minutes of daily exercise can help maintain your shape.
Manage Your Mindset
- Avoid Emotional Eating: Especially when feeling stressed or bored.
- Stay Relaxed: Don’t obsess over your weight; enjoy Tet reasonably.
Conclusion
Tet is a time for family bonding. Rather than worrying too much about weight, focus on balanced nutrition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and enjoying quality time with loved ones. A bit of control and proper planning will help you stay fit, healthy, and confident in the new year.
Dr. Tran Van Son
Phu Tho General Hospital
Source: dantri.com.vn
