By Monique Bartlett
December 18th, 2013 Edition
Do you ever say, “Christmas only comes around once a year, so I’m going to eat as much as I want?” Most of us gain at least a couple of pounds during the holiday season. Some even keep the extra weight on permanently. Gaining weight during the holiday season seems to be the norm but you shouldn’t let the holidays sabotage your weight.
Even though it’s the holiday season you still need to keep your regular routine. Since there are so many other things to do around holiday season you can also add to your routine as well. Go for a walk and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Take the family to an outdoor skating rink. Go sledding down a large hill so you can walk back up. Just get in some physical activity and enjoy the holiday together.
Make sure you eat your breakfast as it will give you more control over your appetite throughout the day. You don’t want to be starving when it is time for the big dinner. You can eat all of your favourite foods but in moderation. Have more fibre and protein and make your recipes healthier with less fat, sugar, salt and calories. Before you put food on your plate, decide what you’re going to eat first. Then you can choose reasonable portions of foods you want to eat.
Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, broth-based soups, salads, and other foods with lots of water and fiber add to the feeling of fullness. Enjoy alcohol in moderation. Alcohol contains empty calories that can add up quickly. Have a glass of wine or better yet, a wine spritzer. Drink water between your alcoholic drinks, it will lessen the amount of calories you drink.
You need to be realistic. The holiday season is a time for celebration. With busy schedules and so many extra temptations, work more on maintaining your weight instead of losing weight. Enjoy the time with your family and friends but remember that the holiday season is not just all about food. It’s about being grateful for what you have and spending time with the ones you love.
