Battle The Holiday Bulge And Win

How to Keep Yourself From Starting The New Year As Round As Santa

Okay, here it is ? part 3 of our ?Battling The Holiday Bulge (and winning)? series. The Average American gains 7 - 12 pounds between Halloween and New Years and studies show that most will abandon their fitness programs. Yes, I know, I've already said this but it bears repeating. Between the parties, high fat foods, alcohol and hectic schedules who has the time (or the inclination for that matter) to worry about exercise, never mind healthy eating? Most people are busy putting off their healthy eating and exercise programs "until the 1st of the year." That is, until they try to get into their clothes or get a good look in the department store mirror. There is still time to formulate a plan that will have you closer to the fitness goals on the first of the year instead of looking at an extra 7-12 pounds of ugly fat. These easy tips will help you get through the holidays with a minimum of stress and weight gain. If you missed parts one & two, drop me an e mail at [email protected] and I will be happy to send them to you.

1.Don't try to 'diet? during the holidays- Set a goal of trying to maintain your present weight. This way, you have a realistic goal. Since , as I have previously mentioned, the Average American gains 7-12 pounds, you will still be ahead of the game. You can allow yourself to indulge here and there, but you won't go over the edge

2.Pay attention to how quickly you eat and exactly what you eat and drink- Chew your food slowly and focus on your companions and the social aspects of each event

3.Remember that alcohol is packed with calories - Choose light beer and wine over mixed drinks." A holiday-sized mixed drink can have as many a 300- 500 calories or more.

4.Offer to bring a favorite low-calorie dish to holiday parties, so you know there will be at least one "safe" item

5.Make the effort to continue a regular exercise program ? Find a buddy or consult with a professional to help you keep yourself on track. Aim for 2 ? 3 30 minutes sessions per week (remember - a little bit is better than none)

6.Never go to a party or event on an empty stomach- Before going out, snack on protein, like chicken or cottage cheese. Protein satisfies and will help you eat less

7.Keep an eye on your portion sizes - In the heat of celebration, portion sizes can be quite excessive

8.Don't Skip Meals ? Many people think that if they skip breakfast and lunch, that they can 'save? enough calories for later. This almost always leads to binging

9.Don't let a hectic holiday schedule force you to eat fast food - Prepare and freeze several quick, healthy meals. That way, you have an option other than high-fat, fast-food meals.

10.Remember what the Holidays are about ? Focus on friends and family. Although most holiday events focus around food, the point is to enjoy the company of your friends and family not to see how much dessert you can eat before you actually pop the buttons on your pants (or dress)

11.Avoid Tasting While Cooking ? You will be appalled at how quickly the calories add up ? Get a family member to taste the food for you

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