09 Dec Tips to avoid holiday weight gain

When food is seemingly everywhere during the holiday season, fighting the battle of the bulge can be an extremely difficult challenge.
While some we might not think it’s a big deal to gain a few pounds during the holiday season, the trouble is that as many people get older and older they never lose that extra weight.
And after a period of years, that extra weight gain can really add up.
The best thing to do for many is to find a “happy medium.” Enjoy some of the holiday food and drink, but take safeguards to avoid overdoing it. Strive to simply maintain your current weight, but if you gain a pound or two then make sure to work in exercise and really watch what you eat afterward.
Here are some more tips to avoid holiday weight gain:
* Continue regular eating and exercise patterns as best as you can during the holiday season.
* Don’t skip meals in order to over-indulge at a big family gathering such, as a Christmas meal. That can actually lead to more weight gain.
* Eating a good breakfast and lunch before your holiday dinner will discourage you from filling up too much at night. Also, eating a healthy snack before the big meal is a key – don’t arrive hungry.
* You don’t have to try everything. Pick out reasonable servings of a few favorite “fattening” foods to eat (ie: turkey and mashed potatoes with gravy), but limit portion size and also make sure to eat fruits and vegetables.
* Wait at least 20 minutes to re-fill your plate. That will let your brain register that you’re full.
* Don’t view the party as just about food, even though it may seem to be everywhere and the main topic of discussion. Enjoy some conversation with family and friends.
* Limit dessert and alcohol consumption — that’s where calories can really start to add up.
* Walk it off. Recruit a group to go for a walk after dinner – and maybe even beforehand if there’s time.

When food is seemingly everywhere during the holiday season, fighting the battle of the bulge can be an extremely difficult challenge.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com