Do you believe the stories about how much weight people put on during the holidays?
In a recent study conducted by The National Institute of Health, the researchers discovered that, in reality, most people tend to only put on just under one pound. However, a person who is already overweight will average a whopping 5 pounds extra after the last festive meal!
Unfortunately, its not all good news, even for those who put on the minimum because the study also shows that we all tend to keep the pounds we put on. In other words, over ten years, those not-so- much pounds, could lead someone to being overweight.
So, what can we do in order to keep those extra pounds off? Here's a few tips to get you through the holidays.
Just a Nibble! Have you ever noticed that when you start eating a rich dessert it tastes so good, but by the last bite, you've had enough? One way to keep the pounds down is to just enjoy 2-3 bites of that delicious cheesecake or chocolate fudge brownie. No one says that you have to completely deprive yourself of holiday treats, just limit how much you eat.
Enjoy the Company, Not the Brownies! Many people think of holiday parties in terms of the foods that they'll get to eat (or have to avoid) instead of the real reason for the celebration- the company and the conversation. If you keep yourself busy chatting with friends, you'll be less likely to go rummaging at the snack table.
Go Full. You've probably heard the grocery store trick; don't go shopping when you are hungry because you'll only end up buying more. Well, the same works for holiday parties! Eat a lot of raw vegetables, and other healthy foods before you go to the party as they will keep you feeling fuller longer, and you will be less tempted to binge on the bad stuff.
Drink Water. If you were to add up the calories that you've probably consumed in food and beverages at parties, you would probably be shocked. You can gulp down hundreds of calories without even realizing it if you are not careful. Try to remember to drink more water at the party and small sips during mealtime to help aid digestion and to stay hydrated.
Create an Eating Schedule. Instead of heading instantly to the food table and loading your plate and then suffering the rest of the party because you want more, try spacing out your snacks for the entire time of the party. Plan on taking a nibble of something every twenty to thirty minutes. Not only will it help you to eat less, but you can make it a fun game to play with yourself. It will also help you do rounds of the party and speak to more people!
Most importantly, remember that the holidays are meant for enjoyment. Try not to be too hard on yourself, and if you make a mistake, take a long walk to help work off those extra calories instead of beating yourself up over it!
I hope these tips help you through the holidays! Do you have some ideas to add? I would love to hear, use the comments box below!
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