It’s that time of year again where we overindulge in the foods we love. Pumpkin pie, Christmas cookies, eggnog, wine, the list goes on. The holiday season is nearly two months long and is a delicious recipe for unwanted weight gain. Although it’s important that we enjoy our time and food together with our families, it’s also important to know these 7 helpful tips that will help you stay trim heading in to the New Year:
1) Don’t stop working out!
Although it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season remember that working out does burn calories, and when you stop working out and eating more it’s a recipe for easy weight gain.
2) Eat what you like, but watch how much
The holidays are time to relax so enjoy eating the foods you like. Instead of eating 5 or 6 cookies try two or three instead. Often its not the certain foods themselves that lead to weight gain but rather the amount.
3) Plan ahead!
Never go to a party hungry, try to eat something healthy beforehand so you don’t head straight to the cookies and appetizers when you get there.
4) Don’t stand by the food at the party
Especially while socializing it is easy to keep eating without really paying attention to how much you are eating. If you find yourself hungry, try to eat vegetables as they are low in calories yet very filling.
5) Eat slowly
It takes about 20-30 minutes for your body to realize it is “full.” Try eating slower by chewing more and you will be less likely to overeat.
6) Eat less prior
Weight gain is due to an excess of calories consumed related to calories burned. If you know you will be going to a party or a big dinner, eat less earlier in the day. Instead of having your normal sized breakfast and lunch, try to decrease the portion sizes so you won’t be eating excess calories.
7) Get sleep!
Although it is great to spend time with friends and family it can also be a very stressful time so be sure to get a good night’s rest. During sleep your body releases a powerful fat burning hormone called growth hormone; this will also leave you less stressed and less likely to overeat.
There you go! If you follow these simple steps you will keep holiday weight gain at bay, and you may even lose a few lbs if you stay active!
