BY MONIQUE BARTLETT
The holiday season is here so here is some food for thought. It’s interesting to note that most people will take a few seconds to check out a food label in the grocery store but yet, very few check the calorie content of their beverages. Why is that? Is it the assumption that just because it’s liquid it can’t have that many calories? The truth is juice and alcohol have more calories than most would assume.
If you’re looking to keep your waist line trim over this holiday season, I would suggest that you might want to just take a quick look at those labels. It’s important to remember that food and drink labels are done by portion size, not the actual amount that’s in the container, so beware! Many people have been fooled to believe that they’re not drinking and eating as much as they actually are.
Water is a good alternative for your weight management compared to sugared or alcoholic beverages, which may contain up to 160 calories and 40 grams of sugar per 12 ounce serving. Drinking water is a simple way to keep well-hydrated and as a consequence help maintain concentration and alertness.
Take a water break. Busy days at work, home, or even running errands can keep you from meeting your food and fluid needs. A lack of water can leave you dehydrated. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy. Remember this, if you’re thirsty then it’s too late, you’re already dehydrated.
Make sure to stay hydrated while working out. Before you begin, drink eight ounces of water, and then during your workout, drink about four to six ounces of water (about five to seven gulps) every fifteen minutes. After the workout, follow-up with another eight ounces of water. Your body and your skin will thank you for it.
I’m sure there will be lots of parties and family get togethers over the next few weeks. Have a glass or two of water before you head out to your holiday festivities. It will fill you up and keep you from eating too many of the temptations that will be placed in front of you. Enjoy, indulge….a little, and remember to watch those hidden beverage calories.
