Holidays: Not Worth the Weight!

Yes, it’s almost that time of the year again when you’re more stuffed than your turkey and Santa is not the only one with a belly. How many times have you told yourself you have this under control because you plan to start January 1^st with your new year’s resolution and lose that holiday weight?

Holiday weight gain is actually, on average, only a pound, but some may gain up to 5-10 lbs. Research shows that the pounds tend to stay on until the next year. Then you inherit another pound the following holiday and so on and so on. It’s time to break the cycle!

If you go into the holidays with the mindset that you will “fix” whatever happens and get back on track after, it’s already too late and you will fall into the “free for all” trap that’s hard to come out of.

You know that Skinny Minnie that never seems to look like she gained a pound during the holidays? There’s also Uncle Joe who sleeps 13 hours after inhaling a 10 lb turkey while patting his belly. The main difference between the former and the latter is the former plans ahead. Don’t let the holidays get the best of you!

Think of a holiday meal as another typical day with better and more food that will not make you feel well if you indulge too much. Eating the same dish twice will not really provide any more pleasure to your palate. Some research shows that after the 5^th bite, food doesn’t get any more palatable or pleasurable. Carry on with your typical diet and exercise routine. If you don’t have one, start now with a short 20 minute walk, jog, or simple exercise video. Plan to lose a couple of pounds before the holidays if you’re worried about gaining weight. Stick to your typical breakfast and lunch so when the cake and treats come rolling through the office, it’ll be easier to say no or control the portion. Yes, it’s hard to say no to free food, but you’ll also be saying no to undesired weight gain and hello to a healthy New Year.

If you don’t already, avoid fast food, especially before the holidays. It also wouldn’t hurt to check in with your weight once a week so see where you are and if you need to be a little more mindful of your eating.

Tips to consider when at holiday parties/gatherings.

• Make sure you’ve eaten something before so you’re not starving when you arrive
• You don’t have to eat all of the food in one sitting. Save it for days to come.
• Donate extra food/desserts to a shelter
• Eat until full, not because it’s staring back at you
• Load your plate first with lower-calorie foods and then save a small spot for the high-fat treats
• Go for a holiday bike ride, ice skating, or window shopping with friends.

Remember, the holidays are about getting together with loved ones, not about gathering around the buffet table. If you start with a plan now, you will get through the holidays without the stress of added weight.