With December now upon us, you may be spending extra time with loved ones, looking forward to special gatherings, and planning big holiday meals. While all those things are fun (and hopefully relaxing), they can also be challenging if you’re on a weight loss journey.
At Great Lakes Health, Wellness, & Aesthetics in Wyandotte, MI, serving the Grosse Ile and Downriver areas, Dr. Anne Abrahamson and our dedicated team help patients maintain balance through individualized wellness and weight management programs. Many of our patients lose a couple of pounds a week when working closely with their coach and taking a GLP-1 medication.
The holidays don’t have to derail all your hard work, either. Here are some simple strategies can make the season more enjoyable and productive while taking a GLP-1.
Plan for Success, Not Perfection
Holiday meals often revolve around tradition and abundance, which normally make moderation tough. The good news is that GLP-1s make it much easier to focus on mindful choices because you’re not constantly hungry.
Eat balanced meals leading up to gatherings, and start your plate with lean proteins and vegetables before enjoying smaller portions of indulgent treats. You might find that just one piece of chocolate or a very small slice of your favorite dessert is plenty to satisfy thanks to the built-in appetite regulation of GLP-1s.
Because GLP-1s slow stomach emptying, eating too much could leave you feeling painfully full for hours, along with possible bloating, nausea, or even vomiting. Keeping that in mind can help you curb urges to overindulge.
Don’t Skip Exercise
It’s easy to skip workouts during the busy holiday season, but staying active helps maintain your metabolism and mood. Even short walks after meals can improve digestion and support stable energy levels. If you’re traveling, plan quick bodyweight workouts or stretch breaks to stay consistent.
Activity also improves how your body uses insulin and glucose, making your GLP-1 medication even more effective. Whether it’s a stroll around the neighborhood or a family hike, every bit of movement adds up.
Stay on Top of Hydration
Staying hydrated helps prevent constipation and nausea, supports fat metabolism, and helps maintain steady energy levels during exercise.
Because GLP-1 medications can reduce your sense of thirst, it’s important to drink water regularly to maintain healthy digestion and protect your kidneys.
Prioritize water throughout the day, even with late-night events. If you indulge in alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, be sure to alternate those drinks with water, as both can act as diuretics.
Expert Weight Management in the Downriver Area
At Great Lakes Health, Wellness, & Aesthetics, we’re dedicated to helping you thrive through the holidays and year-round. Schedule your consultation or contact us by calling 734-287-3000 today.
