It’s that strange time of year when you don’t really know what the weather is up to – one minute you’re freezing cold, and the next you’re wondering why you’ve got so many jumpers on! And there’s a snow warning on the horizon – let’s hope it doesn’t come here! It is winter though and that means it’s time to change our weight loss tactics. This week we’re going to look at how to plan for that long journey until the warmer weather arrives.

Hot Tips for the Cold Weather

  • Regular meals are important during the cold weather. Hot food helps you to feel warmer and it’s much more nourishing to have a meal instead of using precious calories on cakes and biscuits. Toasted crumpets, muffins and fruit loaf are all delicious with low sugar jam, lemon curd or Philly light cheese. The small pots of Ambrosia Light Rice pudding or custard are delicious warmed and served with stewed apples or over your favourite frozen fruit (I always keep a bag in the freezer for a convenient way of having my 5-a-day!).
  • Always eat a hot breakfast – there are lots of ideas in the Lifestyle Plan. Porridge is great as it provides you with your own central heating. Like porridge, Weetabix or bran based cereals sustain us longer and help prevent those mid-morning mood swings. Why not take advantage of the split breakfast – have a bowl of porridge first thing, then a thick slice of granary toast topped with canned or grilled tomatoes mid-morning. Not only does this stop those hunger pangs, it also helps to rev up your metabolism.
  • Pop the sandwich ideas for lunch onto your health grill. A toastie is far more satisfying on a winter’s day than a cold sandwich. Serve it with a cup of Slimtone soup or canned tomatoes and you’ll have a filling lunch in minutes.
  • Make up a selection of the curries or casseroles from the Lifestyle Plan and freeze them. These are really convenient when you get in from work or shopping and want something quick. I always pop a portion of leftover chicken in a dish with gravy and stuffing and freeze it ready for a quick evening meal with vegetables. Or why not try the cans of potatoes at approximately 100 calories – they’re really tasty when roasted or “fried”!
  • FILL up your plate with lots of “free” vegetables. Remember, they can be boiled, stir fried or roasted with your low calorie cooking spray, so lots of variety and texture. And why not cook a few extra to add into an omelette.
  • Make up Slimtone Butternut Squash soup and keep it in the fridge or freezer to have as a starter or in-between meal snack. The Serve-and-Store bags are really useful and can be found in most supermarkets.
  • Always have a glass of water wherever you are – on your desk or in the kitchen. Remember 6 glasses a day will keep the flab away! For a real winter warmer on a cold day, make it into a hot drink with sugar-free squash (my favourite is sugar-free Ribena).

These are some quick and easy ways to make sure you keep warm and still on the right track to lose weight. I’d love to hear about your favourite winter warmers – share your ideas here or on our Facebook page.

Marie x

P.S. Remember, we’ve got a brand new plan for members – the new Slimtone Choose and Lose Plan is only available in January, so don’t miss out and come along this week. I look forward to seeing you!