Science says cheat days are actually good for your diet

Good news dieters, an occasional doughnut here or there may not be as bad for your diet you as you think.

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology, found those who plan a cheat day every now and then, are more likely to stick to their diet and lose weight in the long term.

Researchers surveyed 60 students in a simulated diet environment and 30 people dieting in real life.

They found that those who planned in advance to treat themselves to their guilty pleasures had more control over impulses to indulge and were more motivated to keep on track to achieve their long-term goals.

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Basically, you needn’t feel guilty for biting into your birthday cake, nibbling on some hot chips or chowing down on a juicy burger as it “may be beneficial for long-term goal-success to occasionally be bad, as long it is planned,” the study revealed.

What is life anyway without the occasional treat day?