Amber Clemens, a weight loss coach from Wisconsin, has shared four tips to help people navigate the stressful holiday eating season. She recommends focusing on moderation in daily life, slowing down when eating, de-emphasizing holiday foods, and forgiving oneself for slip-ups. Clemens, who lost 160 pounds from 2018 to 2020, believes that incorporating these tips can help individuals maintain a healthy relationship with food during the holidays.
In her journey to overcome binge eating, Clemens realized that denying herself certain trigger foods only led to more cravings and potential binges. Instead, she started incorporating these foods into her daily life in moderation. By planning to have sweets regularly, she was able to reduce the food noise in her head and maintain a balanced approach to eating. This shift in mindset allowed Clemens to navigate her triggers without feeling restricted or deprived.
One of Clemens’ strategies for mindful eating is to slow down when consuming food. She explains that eating too quickly can prevent the body from recognizing when it is full, leading to overeating. By taking the time to chew food more thoroughly, individuals can better tune into their body’s signals of hunger and fullness. Clemens also references studies that suggest a decrease in caloric intake when individuals chew more slowly, emphasizing the importance of attentive eating habits.
In addition to moderation and mindful eating, Clemens encourages individuals to de-emphasize the importance of holiday foods. She reminds her followers that these dishes are not inherently special and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. By shifting the focus away from indulging in holiday treats as a rare opportunity, individuals can approach them with a healthier perspective and avoid feelings of guilt or restriction.
Another key aspect of Clemens’ advice is the importance of self-forgiveness. She acknowledges that progress on a weight loss journey is not always linear and that slip-ups are a natural part of the process. Clemens emphasizes the importance of forgiving oneself for overeating on holidays or special occasions and moving forward with a positive mindset. She reassures her audience that occasional indulgences will not derail their overall progress, encouraging them to focus on consistency and small, sustainable changes.
Overall, Amber Clemens’ tips for navigating the holiday eating season revolve around moderation, mindful eating, and self-compassion. By incorporating these strategies into their daily lives, individuals can develop a healthier relationship with food and approach holiday events with a balanced mindset. Clemens’ personal experience with weight loss and overcoming binge eating serves as inspiration for those looking to prioritize their well-being during the festive season and beyond.
