Keep the Pounds Off During the Holidays

07 Nov Keep the Pounds Off During the Holidays

Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, oh my! The holidays are filled with indulgent foods, family gatherings, and consequently weight gain.

It happens to the best of us. We begin the holiday season with our best intentions only to check the scale at New Year’s and wait! Where did those extra ten pounds come from?

But the holidays don’t have to be a bittersweet time. With proper planning and cautious measures, you can enjoy them with glee and zeal (and pumpkin pie)! Here are a few tips to keep you on the right track.

• Sleep, beautiful sleep: We love sleep. We adore sleep. Not everyone has the same affection for sleep as we do. Some lose sleep in order to get to work earlier or get an extra workout in, but not getting enough sleep can actually backfire. Losing sleep causes your body to overproduce the stress hormone Cortisol which can cause weight gain. Be sure to catch some Z’s this holiday season.
• Plan ahead: If you know you are going to indulge in some fabulous pumpkin pie after an extravagant meal, eat really well during the rest of the day. You can also throw in some extra cardio to offset the extra calories.
• Be aware: Don’t just shovel food into your face. Be conscious of what you are consuming. Even tasting the food as you make it can add unwanted calories.
• Watch the booze: Alcohol has a very high sugar content, so four glasses of wine could equal a large amount of calories. Did you know that eggnog can be close to 1,000 calories? True story.
• Strategy: There are a few things you can do to trick your mind into eating less. Try using smaller plates. You will convince your mind of larger portions since the plate is filled. Also, take your time when eating. You will realize you are full if you aren’t inhaling the food. If you are trying to avoid seconds, try socializing instead.
• Exercise (obviously): So many people make the mistake of not exercising during the holidays. Don’t do that! Try to get as many workouts in as you can. It is better to work the extra calories off now than after the New Year.
• Don’t be too hard on yourself: You are going to have a slice (or two) of pie. It’s okay! You haven’t ruined anything. Just start fresh the next day. After all, tomorrow is a new day.

We hope these tips will keep you slim(ish) during the holidays! Contact Cory Lee if you would like to start those New Year’s resolutions early at 662-282-4949.