Halloween might be over, but the yearly assault on healthy eating is just getting warmed up. While we face the piles of leftover candy in our homes and offices, shops are stocking up on all our favourite holiday treats; the holiday parties are already being marked on the calendar; and we’re heading into 2 solid months of celebration mode. Wonderful for the spirit, yes, but less so for the waistline.
How do we get through the next few months without adding on the pounds? Here’s a list of my top five suggestions for the season:
#1. Weigh yourself or take measurements weekly. If you really don’t want to gain weight, then you need to be aware if your holiday eating is getting you into trouble so you can nip it in the bud right away. Knowing that your weight has gone up might just give you the self-discipline you need to prevent turning a 2 pound weight gain into a 5 or 10.
#2. Have a snack before you go to a party . This is an old standby, but it bears repeating. There’s nothing worse you can do for yourself than to arrive at a party starving. Please don’t “save your appetite” for the party, because you’ll only end up consuming hundreds of calories on appetizers or simply overeat the first time food appears. A snack including a little protein about 30-45 minutes before the party starts should be just right to take the edge off and restore self-control.
#3. Spend your calories wisely. There are always loads of appetizers and desserts to eat, but how many of them do you see as really special? Chips and peanuts, you can get them anywhere. The same goes for store-bought cookies or smarties or ice cream. Eat only the few items you can only get at this time of year and savour them (like my cousin’s exceptional butter tarts…yum!). The only thing you’ll be missing is an upset stomach and a few extra pounds!
#4. Keep an eye on the liquid calories. A can of regular Coke (or other regular soft drink) has about 140 calories. A 6oz glass of wine has about 120 calories. A 12oz bottle of beer has 130 calories. And most fruit juices have about 120 calories for an 8oz serving. Over the course of a night, these can really add up! One way to keep the numbers down is to alternate caloric drinks with water or another calorie-free alternative.
#5. Ditch the elastic waistband. Or the loose-fitting dress. And under no circumstances undo the top button of your pants! Your stomach will always try to tell you when you’ve had enough to eat, and if you’re clothes are too comfortable, you’re more likely to ignore it when it tries to signal that it’s time to stop. Listen to your body. It will never lead you astray.
Good luck with the season! If you would like more suggestions or insights, then I would love to meet you one-on-one for a consult. Click here to book an appointment.
Do you have any favourite holiday eating tips? If so, I’d love to hear them!
Happy holidays!
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