Let’s admit It is extremely challenging to resist eating a range of junk and unhealthy foods while trying to lose weight. But there are times when it feels wonderful to let go, to stop fighting everything, and to simply go with your gut.
A cheat meal is a reward for eating healthily and staying active all week or all month. As a reward, you might be permitted to relax your food restrictions and indulge in everything you like. As a result, you eat anything you want to satisfy your appetite and then go back to your healthy diet with new energy and enthusiasm.
Cheat days and cheat meals are a great way to maintain balance in your life. Indulging in cheat meals can be helpful because restricting yourself every day can make you feel like you’re struggling. On the other side, going overboard with cheat meals will stall your progress and perhaps cause you to regress a few steps. Here are a few mistakes you should avoid with your cheat meals to keep your lifestyle goals active and steady
Mistake #1: Making Cheat Meals Too Frequent
One of the biggest mistakes people make with their cheat meals is making them too frequent. While it’s okay to indulge in your favorite foods every once in a while, having cheat meals too often can lead to overeating, weight gain, and even guilt. If you’re having cheat meals every day or multiple times a week, you’re not really “cheating” anymore. Instead, you’re just undermining all the hard work you’ve put into your diet and fitness routine.
The Fix: Schedule Cheat Meals Wisely
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to schedule your cheat meals wisely. A good rule of thumb is to have a cheat meal once a week, or at most twice a week. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite foods without overdoing it. Additionally, it’s essential to plan ahead for your cheat meals, so you can make sure you’re not derailing your progress.
Mistake #2: Overdoing It with Portion Sizes
Another mistake people make with their cheat meals is overdoing it with portion sizes. It’s easy to get carried away with your favorite foods, especially if you haven’t had them in a while. But eating too much of anything, even if it’s a “cheat” food, can lead to discomfort, bloating, and even guilt.
The Fix: Practice Portion Control
To avoid this mistake, it’s essential to practice portion control. This means taking the time to measure your food and being mindful of how much you’re eating. You can still enjoy your favorite foods but in moderation. Additionally, it’s a good idea to eat slowly and savor each bite, so you can truly appreciate the flavors and textures of your meal.
Mistake #3: Using Cheat Meals as an Excuse to Binge
The final mistake people make with their cheat meals is using them as an excuse to binge. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “I’ll start my diet again tomorrow,” and then eating everything in sight. But this mentality can lead to unhealthy eating habits, guilt, and a negative relationship with food.
The Fix: Change Your Mindset
To avoid this mistake, it’s essential to change your mindset around cheat meals. Instead of thinking of them as a “free pass” to eat whatever you want, think of them as an opportunity to enjoy your favorite foods without guilt or shame. Remember, one meal won’t make or break your progress, so there’s no need to go overboard. Additionally, it’s a good idea to focus on the quality of your food, rather than the quantity. Choose foods that are high in nutrients and flavor, so you can truly enjoy your meal.
Cheat meals can be a great way to stay on track with your diet while satisfying your cravings. Remember, a healthy diet is all about balance, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you slip up. Just get back on track and keep moving!
