Don’t even think about going to that family holiday dinner without knowing in advance what you are going to eat and how much. In other words, do not anywhere this holiday season without planning. We all look forward to the holidays when our family and friends make all those wonderful dishes that we do not get any other time of the year. While an occasional indulgence is ok, splurging from Thanksgiving all the way through to the New Year’s is not. Most people gain an average of 7-10 lbs over the holidays because they failed to plan how they would handle all those temptations and pressures. Well meaning family members can be the worst; “I spent all day preparing this meal and that is all you are going to eat?” or “Can’t decide between the pumpkin and the apple pie?” Worst, “Just have a slice of both; after all, it is Christmas!” This is why having a plan beforehand is so important:
1. Decide that you will NOT overeat or consume certain foods.
2. Do not wait until you are starving to sit down to eat. Sometimes we are so busy getting ready and preparing the food that we actually forget to eat until we sit down to a huge meal and then we stuff ourselves.
3. Make sure that you eat a healthy breakfast and snack on some fruit before the big feast.
4. Limit consumption of alcohol, punches, eggnog, and lattes. They can really add up in extra calories. Some people actually drink about as many calories that they eat. Choose to bring healthy snacks such as cut vegetables or fruit or a “lighter” low fat” version of some of your favorites. There are many great low fat cookbooks that offer good alternatives to your favorite recipes.
5. Choose a smaller plate and remember to chew well and eat slowly.
6. After you fill your plate walk AWAY from the buffet table and engage in conversation with family and friends. Do not consider the “food” to be the central theme of the party.
7. Do not have seconds!
8. Drink plenty of water. It will help to fill you up and keep you hydrated.
Just because it is a holiday you don’t have to just sit around all day after eating. Some families incorporate outside activities, such a family walk and outdoor sports or games. After you have had time to digest your food, it is always a good time to take the dog for a walk as well. Just because it is the holidays season, doesn’t mean you should skip your regular workouts either. Try as much as possible to keep your normal routine. It makes it much easier to ease back into regular routine after the holidays. Although I do not usually recommend “dieting” per se over the holidays, your goal should be to not gain weight. You will feel good and it will keep you motivated in January.
Remember, God said he would never let us be tempted without providing a way of escape. He cares about your health and well-being and he wants you to be successful. He will give you the strength you need to make wise food choices if you just ask. Moderation and planning is the key to success! Be in health.
