Ten Triumphs over Temptation!
Let’s face it. When we look forward to Thanksgiving and the December holidays, one of the first things we think of is the food, right? It all goes back to our warm childhood memories of sharing meals with family and friends. So it’s no wonder that gaining the “Seasonal Seven” pounds has become yet another holiday tradition.
The Seasonal Seven is one tradition you can ditch. Here are 10 ways you can do it:
1. Practice portion control. You don’t have to deprive yourself of your favorite holiday specialties, just concentrate on quality, not quantity. Split a piece of pie with a friend. Take a half helping of stuffing, and savor every bite.
2. Fill up before the party. Have a big salad or portion of steamed vegetables before you leave for a holiday party. While you’re there, make up one small plate of your favorites, then step away from the buffet!
3. Work off the calories. If you take in extra “fuel,” burn it off with an extra session on the treadmill and by having lighter meals the next day.
4. Limit your alcohol intake. Many people forget how quickly the calories in alcoholic drinks add up — and the stronger the drink, the more calories it contains. Stick to a glass of antioxidant-rich wine with dinner and enjoy a sparkling water or diet soda during the cocktail hour. Better yet, offer to be the designated driver and have a good excuse to forego completely!
5. Beware of mindless eating. If you tend to “sample” while you’re cooking, pop a piece of your favorite gum into your mouth before you start or keep a bowl of raw veggies nearby that you can grab when you’re tempted to nibble.
6. Really taste your food. We’re so used to rushing through meals that we rarely stop to enjoy what we’re eating. Slow down, chew your food and be mindful of the delicious flavors.
7. Use low-fat substitutions. There are low fat versions of all your holiday favorites, such as dips, cheese, eggnog and more without much sacrificing of taste.
8. Make your freezer your friend. If you make or receive batches of cookies, don’t just leave them sitting around. Freeze them so you don’t have access to them. They just might last the entire holiday season this year!
9. Make holiday parties active. It doesn’t have to be all about eating. Instead, carol around the neighborhood, dance, go ice skating or take a sleigh ride.
10. Forgive yourself. Don’t let one slip up give you permission to blow the rest of the holidays. Each day is a new opportunity to practice moderation.
Question: How do you ward off holiday weight gain?
