Good morning,

How are you? Have you had a good week?  

When you go on holiday or have a night out and eat more than you should do, or try that lovely dessert, drink that extra glass of wine, do you feel guilty? If not fab, but for most of us, including me I was always beating myself up. Not anymore. Since running Kick Start which is a clean eating programme I have become more in tune with my body, and I always say everything in moderation. I work to an 80:20 rule that I try and stick to as much as I can. Some people may prefer 70:30 etc whatever works for you.

I have just returned from two weeks off and I have drunk alcohol most nights, enjoyed afternoon tea, fish and chips by the sea, had scones with cream as well as other desserts and had a fab time. I have done a lot of walking so kept up with the exercise. Now I am home I am not thinking why did I do that? I have simply gone back to what I call my normal lifestyle.

My message is don’t beat yourself up, enjoy yourself and then get back into your normal healthy routine when you are ready.

Here are some of my tips to get back on track. As always, I would love to know your thoughts.

1. Plan and prepare your meals. Try and cook from scratch. Be organised so you don't reach for that ready meal in the freezer. 
2. Alcohol reduction - try and reduce your alcohol intake for eg if you drink every night try and alternate or cut out a glass or 2.
3. Water - 2 - 3 litres a day, this can include fruit/herbal teas. 
4. Be active everyday - you will feel so much better. Workout, walk, jog, try getting out in the fresh air. 
5. Chill out time for you - do something you enjoy, take time out for YOU, might be read a book, bubble bath, speaking to a friend, do something that makes you feel good.
6. Fasting is a great tool to help reduce your calorie intake without even counting your calories….try to go 16 hours with no food just LOADS of water. I normally fast 1 to 2 times a week and love it. I feel so much better after it.
7. Dark chocolate is a great alternative and lower in sugar than milk chocolate…higher the cocoa percentage the better. This is my treat if I get a chocolate urge.

Have a good weekend.

Paula xx