News and Features Editor
When
it comes to the holidays, they are full of family, festivities, and food. The
problem is that we typically stuff ourselves with rich food and delicious
sweets. The average person gains around 5 lbs. pounds during the holidays, with
most people never losing the gained weight.* Here are some tips to keep your
holidays a bit healthier.
There
is nothing wrong with enjoying holiday food, just be in control of the
portions. Be aware of what and how much you are eating so that you do not overindulge,
especially on sweets. If you are going to eat sweets, just limit yourself to
one or two treats a day.
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| Cookie temptations you should avoid |
Don't get lazy during the holidays; keep up with your normal exercise routine. You
might even want to bump up the exercise a little while you have the time.
Take
a brisk, half an hour walk for every two cookies or sweets you eat. This is not
hard exercise; it is light and fun, especially when you walk with your family for
a little company or alone if you need a break from the holiday madness.
Eat
light, healthy fruits and vegetables before a big meal. This may prevent overeating
at meals by taking the edge off your hunger. This also works if you plan on
going to parties, so that you don't overindulge on the available food.
While
at a party, don't continually pick at the food. Move away so that you can
remove the temptation.
In
preparation for a large meal, be careful of your food choices and reduce the calories
you eat the few days beforehand. Hold out and save your indulgences for the big
day. This does not mean starve yourself, just be mindful of what you eat.
Take
a chance to catch up on your sleep and remember to take some time for yourself.
You don’t need to go to every party. Take some time to sit on the couch and
watch a movie or read a book. Practice meditation or breathing techniques to
release some of the stress of the holidays.
If
none of these tips work for you, then there are always New Year’s resolutions.
*Source:
The New York Times
