How to Keep Holiday Pounds From Finding Your Waist
By Virginia Laird
Are you already dreaming about your next holiday gathering and all the scrumptious food that will be there? Me too! This is my favorite time of year to cook, eat, and even host parties. It can seem as though all the rules for eating healthy go out the window (if only that were true). Research suggests that the holidays are when people report an increase in their weight. This can have several factors. However, most signs point to the neverending exposure to all things sweet. For those who fight this battle, healthcare professionals have shared a list of tips that can help prevent holiday weight gain, including:
- Walking can help burn calories
- Food journals can help you keep count of calories
- Don’t sit next to the dessert table
Walking Can Help Burn Calories
Personal trainers and fitness experts stress the importance of getting some routine exercise to help prevent holiday weight gain. This is a battle which many across the nation will face throughout the season. Since the holidays are full of treats, sweets, and delightful food, it is easy to understand how one might be vulnerable to gaining weight during the holiday season. Walking is a great choice for those who do not love to exercise or simply do not have the time to hit the gym. Research suggests walking as little as two miles per day can help manage weight.
Food Journals Can Help You Keep Count of Calories
For some, weight gain is not just a problem during holidays. It can be a daily battle, causing stress, depression, and a variety of other emotional issues. Dieting specialists recommend to those who want to lose weight, or take control of their weight, to keep a food journal. Food journals have a long history of producing success when it comes to weight loss. The simple commitment of writing down everything you consume can help to track your daily calorie intake. For many, the first few days of this can be very eye opening. Many simply do not realize the amount of calories being consumed daily. To help avoid holiday weight gain, begin journaling your food consumption today.
Smaller Plates are Your Friend at Parties
Are you heading to a party to celebrate the holiday season any time soon? Plan on choosing a smaller plate for your trip to the buffet. This can help limit the massive amount of calories you are certain to consume while enjoying the delicious array of snacks and desserts.
Now get out there and enjoy your party like the rockstar you are. Happy holidays!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Murfreesboro, Tenn.