Won't be able to stick to diet for 2 weeks. Should I increase intake to maintenance ahead of time?

Wegowego

Hi everyone,

I've lost 15.1 kilos over the past 3 months sticking to a strict 1500 calorie diet and am around 11% body fat. The problem is I will be traveling to my home country for the first time in over half a decade for a wedding and family gatherings meaning I will get a chance to indulge is some wonderful food I miss very much. While I do intent to keep portions under control, it is unlikely I'll be able to adhere to my 1500 calories ( unless I really wanted to, but I am ok with a quick break before the final stretch to 8% body fat). My question is, in order to not shock my system and pack on the fat for those 2 weeks, should I gradually increase my calorie intake before the trip? Will that make a difference? If so, how should I go about it? Or is it irrelevant? Your help will be much appreciated!

Spliner1969

I would not increase the amount of time that you'll be 'off' your diet by starting excess calories ahead of time, but that's just me. It sounds like, at 11% body fat, that you're doing pretty good and I simply wouldn't worry about it too much. Traveling generally means more time on your feet, and more physical activity than normal. Add that into your own knowledge of what is indulging and what is binging and you should come out just fine. I'd say stick with your diet as-is until you leave for your vacation, then don't sweat it until you get back. Even then, when you get back, go back on track, but don't weigh in for at least a week to let the extra sodium/etc. work out of your system. Then see how much you gained, I'll bet it won't be all that much unless you're planning on going completely off the rails and eating 6000 calories extra a day for two weeks. I doubt that.

SusanMFindlay

It won't make a difference. When you first start eating maintenance, you'll likely see your weight climb due to water retention (and the weight of more food in your system). That'll happen regardless of whether you "prepare" your body by slowing increasing calories to maintenance or not. That effect will go away after you're back to your normal routine after your trip.

Wegowego

Thanks for your answers! That's all really helpful.

CattOfTheGarage

I would just raise your calorie goal to maintenance on the day of travel, and back the day after you return - that's if you plan on tracking. Some people keep tracking in situations like this, others don't. I don't think you can do too much damage in 2 weeks.

Trish1c

Just pay attention to portion control. After eating smaller portions this entire time you will be shocked at how little you may want to eat. Try to get some exercise while you are away. Dance a lot at the wedding. Take a stroll around the old neighborhood. Enjoy!