Ah, holidays! A time to relax, explore and… indulge a little too much. If you’ve gained weight during this period, don’t worry: you’re not alone. Many of us find it hard to resist delicious meals, drinks with friends and indulgent desserts. The good news is that a few simple tips and healthy habits can help you get back on track at your own pace. In this article, you’ll see why we put on weight on holiday, how to rebalance the way you eat when you get back and when to weigh yourself. Finally, you’ll find out how to enjoy your next holiday while keeping a few good habits.
Why do we put on weight on holiday?
Holidays are often about letting go a little, and that’s perfectly normal. Between meals with family or friends, drinks on the beach and local pastries, it’s easy to eat more than your body needs. But is that really such a bad thing? Not necessarily!
Weight gain on holiday is often linked to several factors:
- Overindulging: Between generous meals and snacking, it’s easy to eat more than usual.
- Less physical activity: We tend to move less on holiday, lounging by the pool rather than exercising.
- Stress and sleep: Oddly enough, some people feel stressed before going away, which can disrupt their sleep and lead to weight gain.
How can you get back on track after holiday indulgence?
If you’re wondering how to get back into good habits after your holiday, there’s no need to deprive yourself completely or to jump into drastic diets. Here are a few simple tips to help you find your routine again:
- Get back to a balanced diet: Focus on light meals with plenty of vegetables, lean protein and fruit. Cut back on foods that are very fatty or sugary.
- Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the day. It’s a simple habit to look after yourself once you’re home.
- Exercise regularly: Ease back into exercise gradually. Walking, running or yoga are ideal for getting your body moving again. Why not use the return to your usual routine in September to sign up for a new activity?
- Discover our programmes: If you like, you can discover our Cellublue programme.
Three cups a day, with plants that contribute to digestive functions
- Instructions for use
- Friendly advice
The post-holiday diet: a gentle rebalance
A post-holiday diet doesn’t mean severe restriction, but rather rebalancing the way you eat. You can try a lighter eating plan to get back into your usual habits gently. Here are a few tips for a balanced post-holiday diet:
- Cut down on refined carbs: Limit white bread, pasta, cakes and other foods high in simple sugars.
- Focus on protein: Protein has its place at every meal as part of a varied diet.
- Choose quality fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds and vegetable oils all have their place in a balanced diet.
Is it normal to put on weight on holiday?
Yes, it’s completely normal to put on a few pounds while you’re away. You’re out of your usual routine and treating yourself a bit more. It’s not the end of the world. In fact, most people put on weight on holiday, especially when the trip is all about relaxing and good food. The main thing is to get back into good habits as soon as you’re home and find your routine again, at your own pace.
When should you weigh yourself after a holiday?
You’re probably wondering: “When can I weigh myself after my holiday?” It’s best to wait a few days after you get back before stepping on the scales, as the number on the scales can still vary from one day to the next after all those festive meals. Don’t focus on the number straight away; focus instead on how you feel and your energy levels.
If you’d like to track your progress in detail, you can use the Cellublue scales with their app. They let you keep an eye on your weight as well as other measurements (body fat, muscle mass, etc.). It’s a handy way to see how things change over time and stay even more motivated!
If you want to keep track of your progress, weigh yourself once a week under the same conditions for more meaningful readings.
How can you keep up good habits on your next holiday?
Prevention is better than cure! To avoid putting weight back on during your next holiday, here are a few handy tips:
- Prepare yourself mentally: Plan your meals ahead and keep an eye on portion sizes.
- Keep up an exercise routine: Even on holiday, try to stay active regularly, for example with a stroll after meals.
- Choose balanced snacks: Avoid sugary snacks and go for fruit, nuts or homemade cereal bars instead.
Should you diet on holiday?
There’s no need to follow a strict diet while you’re away, and it’s likely to spoil your enjoyment. Holidays are a time to relax and enjoy good food. It’s better to keep a few simple habits in mind. Alternate indulgent meals with lighter ones full of vegetables and fruit, and drink water regularly, especially when it’s hot. The idea isn’t to control everything, but to find a balance that lets you come home feeling relaxed, without missing out.
Getting back on track at your own pace
A few little indulgences on holiday are completely normal, and it’s entirely possible to get back into good habits calmly. A balanced diet and regular physical activity can help you get back into good habits after the holidays. If you like, complementary products can also have a place in your routine. Don’t forget: the most important thing is to stay motivated and go at your own pace!
Frequently asked questions
How can I get back on track after the February half-term?
No strict plan is needed. The key is to return gradually to your everyday routine: balanced meals, water throughout the day and gentle activity such as walking or yoga. What matters most is to go at your own pace, without trying to change everything overnight.
I’ve put on a bit of weight on holiday. Is that normal?
Yes, and you’re far from the only one. A change of routine, moving less and a few more treats at the table all play a part. Rather than worrying about it, simply pick your good habits back up once you’re home, at your own pace.
When should I weigh myself after a holiday?
Give it a few days, as your weight can vary in the first days after you get back. After that, once a week under the same conditions is enough to give you a clearer picture of how things are going.
Do I need to deprive myself after a holiday?
Not at all. Think rebalancing rather than restricting: fewer refined carbs, some protein at each meal and quality fats such as avocados, nuts or vegetable oils.
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Useful categories: Slimming Tips, Weight Management.
