Most people gain between a 1/2 to 1 1/2 pounds over the upcoming holidays. It doesn't sound like a lot of weight, but the unfortunate thing is that people don't usually lose the weight they gain over that period of time.
Getting together and eating with friends and family are some of life's pleasures, so enjoy them! There are lots of things to do to fill your senses at this time of year: smell the ubiquitous evergreen branches, potpourri and candles; look at the creativity of store windows and other decor; listen to the sounds of holiday music and the feel of hustle and bustle. Let food be just a part of a holiday experience.
Here are some useful ideas for helping you to wear the same size in 2011 as in 2010:
- buy a pedometer; work up to taking 10,000 steps a day - inexpensive helper.
- start walking regularly; it's what you want to be doing for your health anyway - 45 minutes of brisk walking burns 300 calories.
- don't have your lunch delivered - walk to pick it up.
- If you live in suburbia, continue or start to park your car as far from your shopping destination as you can - you can build a 10-15 minute walk into the trip a few times a week.
- Consider a meal replacement drink with a green salad for lunch - these high-protein drinks are filling, and while tasty, won't tempt you to over-indulge.
- Does it have to be said? Never go to a party hungry.
- No good choices? Champagne is better than any mixed drink; a brownie is better than fudge; almost any cake is better than cheesecake. These kinds of choices are the reason for never going to a party hungry.
- If you go to a gym, now is the time to shake up your work-outs. Try a new group class or gift yourself a personal trainer for the next month.
- Make your sandwiches open-face, cut the pasta servings in half and add more vegetables to the bowl starting NOW.
- If you don't care about alcohol - skip it; t can add 300 calories to an evening.
- Try the Japanese art of hara hachi bu - eating until you are 80% full!
- Eat mindfully - that is, pay attention to every bite; smell, chew, taste and enjoy!
- Refuse your friends if they want to send you home with yummy leftovers.
- Buddy up with a friend who shares your goal and exercise together; it's more fun, less lonely.
- Add 5-7 minutes to your work-out.
- have an ounce of almonds or walnuts in your car, desk or purse for hunger emergencies: they're healthy, filling and boost your metabolism.
- Oh, and does it have to be said? NEVER go to a party hungry!
Each of has our own challenges at holiday time. If the tendency to gain some weight between now and January 1st is one of yours, try some of these ideas, you've nothing to lose but weight.