Hi collegiettes! The past week has been a whirlwind, but I’m finally home from New York. I didn’t realize the end of this program was so swiftly approaching (only ONE week left – what?!) otherwise I would’ve worked harder to stay on track while on my trip. Whoopsie. Now I have approximately seven days to cleanse my body before the final weigh-in for Round 2 of the DietBet “Lose the Freshman 15” challenge. And by cleanse I don’t mean trying some ridiculous all-liquid diet for the next week… I like real food! I just want my body to re-adjust to eating fresh, healthy foods and smaller portions with plenty of water and exercise. Here are some tips to make the most of your last week:
- Commit to the next seven days. One week really isn’t that long – promise! I know how easy it is to slip-up, but remind yourself of how much better you’ll feel after the week is over (and think of how far you’ve come since we started!). This week is the perfect time to try any of the SELF Drop 10 recipes you’ve been craving and to switch up your workout regimen!
- Make water your new best friend. Cut out sodas, coffee, teas and other caffeinated drinks. The ladies at Tone It Up recommend drinking half your body weight in ounces of water a day! Water with lemon is a great option because it has tons of benefits for your body. The citric acid in lemon will help with detoxification and also aids in digestion, so drink up!
- Nix the fast food and eat fresh. Fresh fruits and vegetables should become a staple during your “cleanse.” French fries don’t count! Snack on apples – one of SELF’s superfoods – and get creative with your meals. The Drop 10 Lentil, Beet and Goat Cheese Salad and Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs have everything your body desires!
- Eat lean protein and whole grains. That means grilled and baked chicken, turkey, fish, and sirloin (steak is a superfood, too!) are all perfect options as well as whole grain pasta, quinoa, rice, etc (I recommend trying the Drop 10 Chicken and Quiona Tossed Salad!).
- Focus on good fats. That’s right, some fats are encouraged! Nuts, avocados and olive oil (another superfood!) will help to burn fat. The Drop 10 Bacon-Avocado Sandwich uses good fats, vegetables and lean turkey bacon to create the perfect lunchtime meal.
- Stop eating 2-3 hours before bedtime. Your body needs time to digest, so make sure you’re not going to bed on a full stomach by giving yourself some leeway before bedtime.
- Be sure to get in a workout. Wake up early if you have to! Just as you’re committing to eating “clean” over the next week, focus on your workouts, too. Staying active and sticking to the Drop 10 workout schedule will help you to burn more calories than dieting alone.
Good luck, ladies!
Xo,
Morgan