Sierra Blogging Post Archives

The holidays are notorious for over indulgence... and the subsequent weight gain that follows it.

Between mashed potatoes, gravy, and pie at Thanksgiving and Christmas and all the party food in between, it can be difficult to maintain your weight over the holidays. But it is possible to enjoy your favorite foods without sabotaging your fitness. Here are a few easy ways to be sure you maintain - and don't gain - this holiday season.

Tips to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain



1. Eat a small, nutritious, filling meal before heading to a holiday party. This way, you'll eat less of the rich stuff that's sure to be covering every table in sight.

2. Keep moving. This is no time to sacrifice your fitness routine. Working out is essential during the holidays to reduce stress and burn calories. Make your workout a priority. Many fitness centers and gyms even have holiday weight maintenance programs, complete with weigh-ins, to help you stay on track.

3. Treat yourself in small doses. Instead of denying yourself dessert or appetizers, just limit the amount of these things you're eating. Try a little bit of everything to satisfy your craving.

4. Scan the food table for healthier alternatives. Fill up on shrimp cocktail or the veggie tray. If you can't resist the dip, consider dipping a carrot instead of a chip.

5. Don't underestimate the power of the liquid calorie. It's easy, with all the festive holiday drinks, to consume more in liquid calories than you would ever eat. These empty calories are the ruin of many well-intentioned party goers. Try sparkling water with a splash of juice instead.

6. Don't linger near the food at holiday parties. Studies have shown that your proximity to snacks directly correlates to your consumption. Stay as far away as possible.

7. If you're the host or hostess, look for reduced fat versions of holiday treats and use light or reduced-fat ingredients in the kitchen. No one will notice you didn't use full-fat mayo in the artichoke dip.

8. Spice up your holiday dishes with hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Recent studies show that capsaicin, the chemical in chili peppers that creates the heat, lowers insulin levels and burns (instead of storing) more fat.

9. When you sit down for a big holiday meal, try to eat slowly. The faster you eat, the more you eat. Take the time to savor every bite and you won't leave the table feeling like a stuffed pig.

10. Get mentally prepared to resist temptation. Tell yourself that you don't want to gain five (or more) pounds this holiday season and the only way to accomplish that is to watch what you eat (and drink) and to remain active in between parties and celebrations.