Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays

With the holidays upon us, it is easy to pack on a few extra pounds. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Even though we have a great time during the holidays, we still need to be accountable for what we eat.  During this time of year, there always seems to be an abundance of sweets sitting around—just one of the reasons it is so easy to gain weight during this time of year. Let’s not forget about the parties.  At parties there is alcohol and there is food.  When we drink alcohol (empty calories), we eat more food.  This is such a tough time of year for the waistline.  Don’t fall victim and gain weight because of the parties.  The older we get, the harder it is to lose weight so let’s not make it any harder on ourselves than it already is. Try eating before you go to Holiday parties.  Choose lean sources of protein and high fibrous foods before the party.  This will prevent you from pigging out!  Many of us tend to overeat and fill up on high-fat and sugary foods at parties.  This is a good rule of thumb for the whole year, but is an essential rule you should follow around the holidays. Don’t drink your calories. With so many beverage selections this time of year it is easy to drink our calories.  Instead of grabbing alcohol, sodas or juices try grabbing more water.  Instead of a cocktail go for a glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime.  Drink more water and skip the cocktails and sugary drinks. During this very busy and hectic time of year don’t forget to stay committed to fitness.  Don’t push off exercise until the first of the New Year.  When we get busy we often cut out exercise first.  Please don’t do this to yourself.  Exercise is the best thing we can do for ourselves.  Try scheduling your exercise into your daily routine ahead of time so that you stay more committed.  Plan workouts with a friend that will hold you accountable!  Not only will exercise keep the weight off but it will help you stay focused and less stressed.  Who wants to be stressed out during the Holidays? Don’t fall victim to the holiday weight gain.  Drink plenty of water and avoid all the other drinks.  Eat healthy before attending a party to prevent you from overeating.  And don’t forget to schedule in your exercise.  With all the temptations during the Holidays, it can be difficult, but with a few simple tips, avoiding the expanding waist line does not have to be impossible.