Keeping the Holidays merry and fit
Holiday season is enough to scare even the most dedicated of dieters. As the season approaches, they feel a sense of panic, knowing that meatballs and eggnog are literally around the corner. It’s difficult to resist, especially in social atmospheres, and the fact that some of the fantastic-tasting foods are only available during the season. Numerous studies show people can gain 5-10 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Make a resolution to keep your wits about you, and not lose yourself in the bread pudding.
Use our tips to keep yourself fit during the seasonal festivities.
The most important strategy is to approach your celebrations with a positive attitude. Instead of being fearful, which means that you are ‘scared’ the food will be able to influence YOU to eat it, take the approach that you are sticking to your regimen because it is healthy long-term. When you think about your diet as something positive and not something you’re forced to do, saying no to extra frosted cookies is easier. Realize that when you eat too many junk foods, you ultimately end up feeling sick, bloated or lethargic anyway.
A positive attitude makes all the difference-instead of making yourself feel deprived, you are enabling yourself to make healthy choices. This way, dieting isn’t a punishment around the holidays, and you can attend those office parties with less anxiety.
Cut out the alcohol- there are so many empty calories to be had in an alcoholic beverage, and the fancier it is, and the more liquors, the more calories! Did you know that a margarita has over 350 calories and a long-island iced tea can have over 700 calories? Think about how hard you’ll have to work on the treadmill to compensate for imbibing these holiday drinks. Not to mention the dehydrating effects that alcohol has on your system.
Try sticking with one glass of wine or beer throughout the night, and switching to a cranberry juice with lime, or even a soda water with lemon. Also keep in mind that alcohol can be a ‘gateway’ to crashing your diet. You will definitely have impaired judgment when it comes to the dessert bar, if you’ve had a couple of martinis. Keep your wits about you, and say ‘no’.
Feeling guilty that you won’t be eating your mother’s famous chocolate pie at the Thanksgiving table? You don’t have to totally shun your loved-ones’ foods, but do keep in mind that they should be aware of your weight-loss efforts. Remind them gently before gatherings that you are on a healthy plan for weight-loss and to not be offended if you don’t partake. Alternatively, you can always ask for a ‘mini slice’ of whatever pie or dessert is being served. Instead of a whole piece, get a small 1-2” serving that satisfies your cravings without the major calorie commitment.
Stave off dangerous cravings by filling up on nutritious or calorie-light foods before you head out the door. A small, but balanced meal can help you tackle pumpkin-pie cravings later on. Have some oatmeal with fruit, or a small salad with grilled chicken. Your body will get the nutrition it needs and you’ll be fuller. There’s nothing worse for your diet, than to show up at a party starving, only to be presented with tray after tray of calorie-dense hor doeuvres.
If you don’t buy it, it won’t be there to tempt you. If you live with others, try buying healthier snacks for everyone. Otherwise, keep their tempting tidbits in a separate place so you won’t snack on their crackers and cupcakes. If you are the sole consumer, just don’t purchase snacks such as high-fat ice cream or sugary items. Choose healthier replacements for moments when you crave a snack or pick-me-up. Replacing ice cream with a low-sugar sorbet or frozen fruit is just one of your options. Some nutritionists recommend eating Medjool dates instead of cookies; the dates are naturally higher in natural sugar and can curb cravings for sweets. Buy rice cakes instead of chips- there are so many fun flavors and varieties other than the ‘plain ole’ rice cake’.
Do you have some ‘skinny’ pants? Wear them to the party or gathering! You’ll be less inclined to partake in foods or alcohol that could show bloating or a full stomach when you wear slimming clothes or clothes that cling to the body.