Fit for the Holidays
- Details
- Published on Friday, 07 December 2012 22:57
It is that time of year again. A cookie here, a cookie there. An extra helping of mashed potatoes there. Experts tell us the average person gains seven to ten pounds between November 1st and January 1st. Whether your family celebrates Christmas or Hanukkah, keeping the "holiday ten" off can prove tricky. So how do you beat the odds and still enjoy all of the festivities of the season?
Your friends at Fall River Jewish Home share their best tips for keeping your waist line in check this holiday season.
· Watch out for liquid calories. This is the time of year when eggnog hits the grocery shelves and cocktails at parties flow more freely. Instead of choosing the fat-laden holiday drinks, stick with low-fat eggnog or a sparkling wine. Or consider something simple like Raspberry Vodka with club soda. Each of these is lower in fat and calories.
· Fill Up at Home. Let's face it, the healthy options at most holiday parties are few. We've all heard it many times over the years, but here it is again. Eating a healthy mini-meal or filling up on fresh vegetables before you head for a cocktail party, can help keep you from overeating.
· Consider Both Calories and Fat. When you are deciding between two choices of pie, for example, don't just look at calories. You may think because both choices have the same caloric content, that either would be fine. In fact, cream pies and nut-based pies are far worse. Both groups tend to be higher in fat and sugar than fruit pies.
· Make Time for Exercise Early in the Day. You may have the best of intentions when it comes to planning your activities for the day. But what are the chances you will really leave a holiday party to go work out? If you work it in to your morning routine, at least you won't have the extra calories from the event and have missed a workout.
· Monitor Medications and Alcohol. The holidays tend to be the time of year when those who rarely drink alcohol sometimes imbibe. They may fail to remember that some medications can't be mixed with alcohol. Before you head out to join the party this year, make sure you double check alcohol and side effects of any medications you are taking.
· Stick with Small Amounts. If you can't resist the treats of the season, limit yourself to small amounts of them. Use a small plate and only put a sample of each on your plate. Then be sure to leave the food area so you aren't tempted to go for refills.
Are you successful in keeping off the holiday ten each year? What are your best ways for managing your health during the holidays?
