How to avoid putting on weight during the holidays
Once again, the holidays are upon us. Translation: lots of shopping, lots of stress and, of course, a few extra pounds on the side.
At this time of the year it may feel like life is moving at a fast, never-ending pace, but remember, there are at least one or two things you do have control over. Before the madness of the holidays sets in, here are 10 suggestions to help fight off the dreaded holiday weight gain:
1. Stay active. Staying active and sticking to an exercise routine will not only help keep your weight down but will give you more energy for all that shopping. It will also reduce stress and help you control your appetite.
2. Don’t starve yourself. Starving yourself to make room for the big Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner will only make you binge. The best advice: eat healthy, normal meals throughout the day and have a snack before dinnertime to avoid overeating.
3. Record what you eat. Studies show that people who write down what they eat are more likely to control their calorie intake and make healthier food choices.
4. Choose healthier options. There are ways to eat food that is just as good as fatty foods but just a little healthy, such as white meat turkey, sweet potatoes, cranberries, vegetables not drenched in butter, mashed potatoes made with reduced fat milk or yogurt and salads not drenched in dressing.
5. Enjoy what you love. When there are lots of options, choose what you love most and don’t overindulge.
6. Don’t switch diets during the holidays. It will only throw you off and may also cause binging.
7. Holidays are days. So treat them as days, not weeks, months or years. Enjoy yourself that day and treat yourself to your favorite foods, but try to go back to a regular eating schedule after the holiday.
8. Take time for yourself. Don’t let the stress get to you. Schedule a massage buy a book or do yoga. Too much stress contributes to weight gain.. Find a good outlet for yourself that doesn’t involve eating.
9. Give or ask for healthy gifts. Healthy recipes, sports gear, running shoes…gifts such as these that will motivate you and others to reach a healthy goal.
10. Enjoy the holidays.