Hallmark Health

You’ve had your weight loss surgery, you’re on the road to weight loss and you’re ready to be the host or hostess with the mostest. To many of us, parties are one of the best ways to get together with friends, families and coworkers. It’s a time where you can gather all of your loved ones in one place and celebrate each other’s successes or catch up on what’s going on in your lives.

It will take a few little adjustments to your routine, but you can still enjoy yourself at parites – without falling short of your your post-weight loss surgery regimen. To help you stay on track, we’ve put together this list of basic tips and tricks that will help you host (or attend) parties successfully.

Drink plenty of water pre-party.

Drinking a lot of water will both help you stay hydrated and feel fuller, making the likelihood smaller that you’ll eat too much.

If you must have dessert, pick just one.
The dessert tray is always a tough temptation. But if you feel you must have a taste, check out the dessert table during the party and take time to decide which dessert you want most. Then choose just that dessert. It might seem difficult, but having one treat to look forward to at the end of the party (instead of going berserk on two or three) will give you a greater sense of fulfillment!

Don’t “save” calories.
You might be tempted to “save” calories day but the reality is, skipping meals and/or normal snacks may set you up to eat too much later on. You might end up feeling famished and deprived of nutrients when your party starts and then once the event is in full swing, you could overindulge on foods you may not eat under normal circumstances. Before you bank calories, remember – eat normally and you’ll feel better later.

Wear an outfit you feel good wearing.
Do you have an outfit that you’ve been dying to show off? Maybe you’re not a size 6 yet, but you have worked hard to get to where you are so don’t be shy about putting something nice on and showing off a little. Wearing something that looks good on you will help you feel terrific about your progress – and that helps you stay on track when you feel like indulging a little too much.

Work out if you can!
Exercise releases endorphines, increases circulation and feels good, so make it one of your goals to have a fantastic workout on party-day. Plus, setting a healthy goal and accomplishing it will give you sense of achievement you can carry with your to your social event.

Don’t disregard the veggies.
Better yet, make sure you serve tons of delicious veggies at your party. Or if you’re attending a social event, check out the whereabouts of the vegetable tray as soon as you arrive. When you fill up on raw veggie snacks, you will tend to eat less throughout the event.

Mind your alcohol intake.
Many of us like to have an occasional adult beverage, but remember there are healthier options you can choose to drink as an alternative your usual adult party beverages. Try adding some carbonated water or club soda to your wine, stick to calorie-free or diet mixers and try light beer as opposed to dark. Don’t forget, always enjoy your indulgences in moderation.

Don’t mind the comments.
Don’t let anyone’s negativity affect you. We’ve all heard the comments before: “Really? I can’t believe you won’t have a piece of cake!” You are working hard to feel positive and good about yourself. Don’t let the criticism and comments of others impact your course of action.

Keep things in perspective.
Did go hog wild? No problem. Wake up on a good note the morning after the party and tell yourself, “No worries. Today I’m going pick up where I left off.” Do this and you’ll feel better in no time.

Want more weight loss surgery tips and tricks?

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