This new study shows how ‘cheat days’ can actually be very good for you

Occasionally…

Those of us who have tried manfully to stick to a healthy eating plan know that you need a release every now and again. If you know that, at a certain point of a week, you can look forward to eating what you want and not have to worry about the consequences, it makes it easier to stomach all the stuff that might not taste the best, but you know is important to get you into shape. That said, the concept of a ‘cheat day’ doesn’t always sit well with people who can’t help but feel guilty about stuffing their faces with junk food, even if it is only once a week. If you’re one of those people, then a little bit of science might put you at ease. According to Men’s Health, scientists in Portugal recently put participants in a study on a diet consisting of just 10,500 calories per week (a man’s average weekly calorie intake is approximately 17,500 calories per week). Half of those on the diet plan, meanwhile, were allowed to eat anything they wanted on Sundays. At the end of two weeks, the difference in the weight lost by both groups was minimal, but those who had indulged on Sundays were significantly happier and more motivated about continuing a plan of healthy eating going forward. While the study helped illustrate the effectiveness of including a ‘cheat day’ in a healthy eating plan, participants did not go overboard in terms of portions of ice cream, pizza etc. on their Sundays off. Study author, Rita Coelho do Vale, Ph.D, said that planning ahead and designating a specific cheat day is of crucial importance, as knowing that you can look forward to some indulgence might just help you resist ordering that pizza on a weeknight, however tempting it may be. It's certainly food for thought. Read more: