Holiday Food: How to Enjoy It and Not Gain a Pound
By Virginia Laird
Oh how I love holiday food! The pies, candies, dips, cheese balls, pumpkin and banana breads and everything that goes with it. Just the smell of these foods seem to pack on the pounds. It can be difficult to enter a holiday gathering without indulging in a majority of these tasty treats. Although, cutting yourself off completely from a little treat can be setting yourself up for failure. If this describes you, there are some things you can do to help avoid the impending weight gain. One of the best recommendations, provided by fitness instructors, is to allow yourself a small amount of leniency during the season of sweets and treats. Other tips provided by various health care professionals include:
- Control portions
- Opt out of seconds
- Get plenty of rest
- Step on the scale often
Control Portions
It is wise to invest some time researching the appropriate portion size of each dish you may encounter over the holidays. While a heaping pile of sweet potato pie may be just right for your appetite, odds are it is well over one serving size, meaning double or even triple the calories. Protect your waistline by discovering what is the correct portion size for your favorite treats and try to stick to the recommended serving.
Opt Out of Seconds
With all the luscious food sweet talking your taste buds, it can be quite tempting to head back in for seconds, knowing full well you could stop after the first plate. It is important to remember all the food does not need to be eaten during one meal. Holiday leftovers are some of the very best. Avoid eating a second helping just to satisfy the need for something tasty. If you are full, stop!
Get Plenty of Sleep
The body needs sleep to function properly. This remains true during the holiday season. Although it can be tempting to pull all-nighters to play a family game of monopoly, it is advised to get plenty of sleep. This allows the body to heal and repair itself from the day.
Step on the Scale Often
Go ahead and step on the scale often. Although the scale tends to be no one’s friend, it is vital to use the scale as a tool during the holidays. The scale can be a gentle reminder of the goals you have as well as what you accomplished the day before. As the scale moves in the wrong direction, remains the same, or maybe moves in your favor, it may help you keep a tighter grasp over your cravings.
Now find your best looking holiday attire and head to your gathering with confidence that you can beat your cravings while enjoying the succulent holiday spread!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.