Christmas Island
Five Tips to Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays
With the holiday season fast approaching, it's easy to fret about gaining
back the weight you've spent significant time and effort into losing. Here are
some tips to help you avoid putting on much, if any, weight during your holiday
celebrations.
1. FILL UP ON MORE SENSIBLE FOODS
Foods that are high in fiber or water fill you up quickly and help keep you from
overindulging on the "bad" stuff. Take an extra scoop of vegetables and fruit
when filling your plate, and by the time you finish, you won't have room for the
other foods which are higher in calories and more likely to cause you to gain
weight.
2. EAT SMALLER PORTIONS
No doubt, everything at the table looks good, and it's all you can do to keep
from filling your plate 2-3 times so that you can sample everything. An easy way
to combat this urge is to simply take a smaller portion than you normally would
of those dishes you're most interested in, especially belt-bursting desserts.
Split a piece of pie or cake with your spouse, child, or another family member
who may be watching his or her waistline.
3. DRINK AROUND, DURING, AND BETWEEN MEALS
Drink a fair amount of water or other unsweetened beverage before each meal, as
well as during and between them. The liquid in your stomach will help trick your
mind into not feeling as hungry, which reduces the tendency to gorge yourself on
potentially fattening foods.
4. POSITION YOURSELF AWAY FROM THE SNACKS
If you take a seat within an arm's reach of the snack table, you're going to
have a tough time keeping yourself from unconsciously grabbing handfuls of party
mix, candies, and the like and picking at them all day. By sitting on the other
side of the room, getting to the snacks involves a conscious effort into getting
up and walking over to get at the snacks.
5. TAKE AN EXERCISE BREAK
If the weather permits it, go out and take a quick walk around the house or
block. If your celebration is taking place in a colder climate, you'll be more
inspired to quicken your pace and burn a few extra calories in the process. If
the weather is bad, do 10-20 squats, stretches, or other brief exercise each
time you go to the restroom. You only want to do just enough to elevate your
heart rate, but not break out into a sweat. Chances are, no one will know what
you're doing, and you won't have to feel self-conscious about trying to maintain
your figure.
Finally, if you still manage to put on a few extra pounds, don't stress over it.
If you've been following a sensible diet and exercise plan, the chances are good
that any weight you do gain is going to come off shortly after the holidays are
over.
