Here's How to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain
By Virginia Laird
For many across the nation, holiday weight gain is a harsh reality, one that can be a struggle to reverse. If your holiday is anything like mine, you are sure to be surrounded by a plethora of treats that you may not be able to withstand. Health and wellness experts suggest that with careful planning, there are ways to prevent such weight gain. A few tips to try to help you keep away the weight gain which can accompany the holidays at bay, include:
- Consider the rule of the tablespoon
- Make sure to exercise routinely
- Consider giving up soda
Consider the Rule of the Tablespoon
Many health and wellness experts suggest that avoiding weight gain is mostly about portion control. It can be easy to head to the buffet to load your plate, thinking you are going light on the food. However, research proves that unless you are measuring your portions, you are likely consuming far too much. For this reason, many advise the use of the tablespoon rule. This is a simple guideline to help you keep track of your food while enjoying holiday food. The idea is that you can have one tablespoon helping of each dish you would like to enjoy. However, seconds are strictly forbidden. Following this rule can help you prevent holiday weight gain.
Make Sure to Exercise After Dinner
Although you may be spending some of your holidays away from home, there is no reason to skip out on your workout. Health and wellness experts advise that going for a walk or a jog can help you manage your weight while away from the gym you love. Before you head to the couch for a nice nap after consuming far too much food this Thanksgiving, invite some family to join you in a walk around the block to help burn off some of the calories you just consumed.
Consider Giving Up Soda
One tried and true way to shed a few pounds it to give up soda. Soda bloats the body, which can lead to some weight gain. Research suggests that those who give up soda can lose anywhere from 5-10 pounds. Health and wellness experts admit that soda, although tasty, offers few benefits to your health. For those who may struggle to give this habit the ax, begin by limiting your consumption.
Start the habits you need now to help you avoid packing on the pounds during the holiday season.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Surprise, Ariz.