8 Tips to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain
by: ffadmin

You’re watching what you eat, meticulously investigating ingredients, and staying strong through those late-night snack attacks. Unfortunately, not everyone in your world is following suit. On top of that, it’s the holiday season— a time when treats abound and the “spirit of giving” often materializes into gift baggies filled with naughty sweets. Then the holiday party invites start to come in and the pressure really starts to set in.

You don’t have to hide at home with your head under the covers for the whole season. Come out and join in on the fun! But tuck our tips in your back pocket.

Shop Smart.

Keep things within your control, under control. Your kitchen, for example— keep it stocked with your healthy faves for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack-time, and any time in between. Having healthy options will help you stay satisfied and less likely to give in when a well-meaning co-worker passes around the plate of cookies. Munching on the healthy stuff before going to a holiday party is also a great way to avoid overdoing it with treats once you get there.

Bite Lite.

At a holiday party, take a mental inventory of the menu. Making a deliberate effort to notice what is available will help you prioritize. You see a veggie tray (jackpot!)— now what to go with? Homemade Greek yogurt dip? Deal. Store bought salad dressing? No deal.

Produce Power.

Let’s face it, fresh fruits and veggies are a no-brainer. They’re the very source of vitamins and nutrients. Plus, no surprises like added sugars or preservatives— what you see is what you get. When in doubt, reach for some fresh produce.

Freezer Friendly.

Although it’s cold outside and all you can think about is warm, comforting foods, don’t forget your freezer! It can help you save money, time, and trips to the grocery store. Most fruits, vegetables, and even meats, can be frozen. Buy in bulk and freeze in serving sizes for easy use later!

Simple Swaps.

Making a few simple food swaps can really help you side-step a holiday weight gain landmine. Some of our favorites include Spaghetti Squash instead of pasta or rice and Mashed Cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes. (Get more ideas here!)

Dessert Delights.

Fruit has naturally occurring sugars and that makes it the perfect guilt-free dessert! You can enjoy that sweet kick without letting out a notch in your belt. Try baking it, eating it raw, or mix it up for a fresh fruit salad.

Portion Patrol.

It’s important to watch what you eat, but it’s also very important to watch how much you eat. Cutting back on portions can impact your body more than you think! At home, use smaller plates. Eating out, box up half the meal before you start eating.

Chin Up.

So you had a little crumb of a cookie, or a sliver of cake. Don’t beat yourself up about it! Did you enjoy it? Yes. Will continuing to make that choice keep you from your goal? Yes. If you’re gonna be bad, savor the moment then leave it behind. Dwelling on slip-ups will only bring down your morale and slow your momentum. Recommit to making healthy choices, then get out there and get to it!

 

 

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