Winter weight loss… sorted!
Words: Sally Brown Illustration: Jenny Bowers
From the moment the nights start drawing in to the last mince pie of the season, the end of the year can be a challenging time in your slimming journey. Sometimes, it can even feel as though you’re forced to choose between enjoying the same cosy comforts as everyone else, and keeping your weight loss on track. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. Here’s how you can make the most of everything the coming months have to offer, and still love what you see on the scales in the new year!
1 Satisfy comfort cravings
When you’re battling your way through freezing rain, do you ever think, ‘I can’t wait to have a big bowl of salad when I get home’? Thought not. However much you love crisp greens or fresh stir-fries, as soon as the clocks go back, cravings for comfort food kick in – and the stodgier the better. ‘It’s natural to want warming, filling food at this time of year,’ says Slimming World nutritionist Alexandra Clark. ‘Don’t fight it. There are so many Food Optimising versions of winter favourites, like chilli, Bolognese and casseroles packed with seasonal veg, that you can slim down while still getting the comfort you’re craving.’
Try-it tip:
Whatever you fancy, you can have it and stay on plan – and indulging your cravings doesn’t always mean using your Syns. For example, many members say their go-to hunger-busting comfort food is a portion of Slimming World chips. ‘They’re Free and guaranteed to put a smile on your face on a cold, rainy day,’ says Alexandra Clark. Simply cut your potatoes into chips, boil for 3-4 minutes, then spread in a single layer on a non-stick baking tray and spray with low-calorie cooking spray. Pop into a hot oven (200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6) for 20-25 minutes, turning once or twice, until crisp and golden. Salt and vinegar optional!