A Healthier Approach to the New Year’s Resolution

BY: DR JASON GRANZOTTO

In my practice, we are at the point in the year where the big changes are being reserved for January 1^st.  Of course, delaying the weight loss program or detox protocol is simply due to the holiday season.  Assuming your symptoms are relatively under control, these plans can wait until after the holidays.  Patients always ask if they’ll have to miss Christmas dinner or skip their office party because of the regime I give them.  Typically, I tell them to enjoy those events even if that means breaking some of our rules.

Enjoyment of the holidays, even if that means consuming aggravating foods or drink, outweighs the feeling of missing out.  However, on New Year’s Day that all changes.  The reprieve of holiday indulgence fuels the motivation to start fresh in the New Year.  I always give my patients their plan before the holidays so that they know what lays ahead of them.  Some of the suggestions that I give my patients leading to the New Year includes:

• Avoid buying groceries that are not allowed on your plan 2 weeks leading up to New Year’s. This way you won’t have these temptations in your home.
• Solidify your plan by making financial and time commitments. Don’t just buy a gym membership – purchase a series of personal training sessions and schedule them throughout the month of January.  Scheduling appointments in advance improves your compliance and will help build the motivation to keep going.
• Don’t be afraid to weigh yourself. If you are trying to lose weight, use your scale as a gauge on a weekly basis.  Don’t check everyday nor should you throw away the scale.  Never let your starting point deter you.  You got there somehow, sticking to a plan will help move that number down in due time.
• Spring clean your cupboards. But don’t wait for Spring.  If you have a few days off in December, get rid of any temptations.  If you’ve received treats over the holidays, give them away.
• Chart your progress. A daily diet diary, supplement pill box, notes on digestion, sleep, energy – having this info itemized daily will help monitor your progress.  Ultimately, this is about staying motivated until you hit your stride.
• Aim higher. Don’t see your health as a chore – but something you can take pride in.  The more you commit yourself, the faster you get results.  Results lead to positive feedback and more motivation.  Compliments from friends and family, physical results you see on the scale or in your clothes will give you the boost to keep going.  Trust me, others will look at you as a role model – they will ask you what you’ve been doing and how they can get started.

In summary, commit to yourself because you are worth it.  Don’t sabotage yourself and maintain a routine that will encourage your health goals.  January is a hard month, but buckle down, work hard and start seeing the results.