If you can resist all the  lovely  cakes and pies over Christmas,  you’d  have to be superhuman. Who can say no to Grandma’s favourite eggnog recipe or Christmas turkey? 

Stay Hydrated  

Thirst and hunger are easily mistaken by most people. You might think you are hungry, but you could simply be dehydrated. So before you grab your next snack, try  drinking a tall glass of water, give it twenty minutes and decide if you are really hungry. Water is  essential to keeping your weight under control.  

Take Control of Your Meals  

Your diet is the most  essential  part of your weight loss plan.  We’ve  had our fair share of good food over the holidays, now  it’s time to cut back on our portions. Reduce your sugar intake, add more vegetables and proteins to your daily meals.   

To ensure you are eating smaller portions, use smaller plates or bowls. You will still have a full plate but with a better controlled serving size 

Start Working Out  

There is no better way to  kick-start  the new year than to hit the gym. Whether  it’s  a slow jog on the treadmill or a swim in the pool, you should be doing at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. To lose weight faster, you need to kick it up a notch by extending your workout times and intensity. Mix it up with some strength-training using weights twice a week,  and  you will  be well on your way to a smaller waistline!  

Cut Down on the Booze  

Alcohol is  a  major  source  of calories. A harmless looking pint of beer contains up to 150 calories.  Creamy cocktails such as mudslides  have  the same amount of calories as a sweet dessert. Even  a simple glass of wine contains 85 calories.  

So watch out  for  those drinks when you are out having a night cap with your friends.  If you’re  desperately trying to lose weight, better stick with water!  

Stay Positive  

Don’t let the  extra pounds  get you down. A low self-esteem can lead to overeating, according to experts.   Reward yourself for sticking to your diet by indulging occasionally. Allow yourself to eat whatever you wish for  2  out of 20 meals. This way you  won’t  feel deprived or desperate for treats.  

Eat More Frequently 

People who have successfully shed their weight eat  5  meals a day on average. Eating lighter, more frequent meals can  help  control your appetite.  It can also  give you a energy and mood boost.  You are less likely to feel the hunger pangs when eating  smaller more frequent meals. Your metabolism also gets a kick-start the increase in meals as the process of digestion burns calories.  

Be realistic  

Don't try to overhaul your body overnight.  Try to manage your expectations and gradually crank it up.  If you make too many changes at once,  you are more likely to become  frustrated and throw in the towel. Those who focus on small gains may have the best chance  at long term weight loss success. It keeps you motivated as you move up from goal to goal.   

Sleep more  

Do you know sleep can play an incredibly important part in weight gain or loss?  People who forgo sleep and stay up late tend to consume more fattening foods  as the brain loses impulse control. That is why you tend to crave that microwave  mac n  cheese during the wee hours of the morning. Stick to a schedule, waking up and retiring at the same time every day, even on weekends.  

Losing weight is not a race. If you are  losing too much  weight too fast, you are doing it wrong.