Get-togethers with friends, family, and coworkers are common this time of year to celebrate the holidays. It is quite easy to gain undesired weight with all the dinners and parties, holiday cookies, and less exercise. To make it through the holiday season with little to no weight gain, it is a good idea to have some healthy strategies in place. Below are some ideas for you to consider through the holiday season:
- Bring a healthy dish you can enjoy to potlucks or family meals. Some ideas could be salad, vegetable tray, fruit tray or fruit salad, roasted vegetables, healthier dip such as hummus.
- If the party will consist mostly of appetizers, plan to eat a small meal prior to the party so that you are not hungry when you arrive. When it is time to eat – pick 3 or 4 items you really want and fill your plate only once with these items.
- Do not hang out near the food. We tend to graze when we stand near food at a party chatting with friends.
- Stick to your exercise routine (or start an exercise routine) as best as you can. Walk after dinner with guests, or walk your dog earlier in the day before the party. If the weather is cold or wintry – try exercising in the house with some pushups and sit-ups, try an exercise video on YouTube, or simply walk up and down the stairs a few times!
Happy Holidays!
