There’s nothing like the holiday season to throw off all plans of leading a healthier lifestyle. All the parties and extravagant dinners are breeding grounds for overindulging and sedentary behavior, which can lead to holiday weight gain. But there are steps you can take to help yourself keep off the pounds this season.
Before you ask, no, you don’t have to healthify your holiday dinners to keep off the weight, because what would the season be without those heavenly, calorie-rich foods? So here are 6 practical tips to help you avoid the holiday weight gain that doesn’t include swearing off your favorite foods!
1. Eat healthy, low-calorie breakfasts.
If you know you’re going to be throwing down later in the day with more indulgent foods, then start your day off on the right foot with a healthy breakfast. This way, you can enjoy all your favorites guilt-free later on.
2. Get active.
Does your family typically sit around all day until dinner is ready? Then switch things up this year by getting up and active. Take a stroll to walk off your dinner in the evening, or find ways to move your bodies during the day.
3. Avoid drinking all your calories.
The calories in your sugary or alcoholic drinks add up more than you think. So go easy on the soda, wine, and eggnog this year, and save those calories for the good stuff.
4. Use a smaller plate at dinnertime.
The bigger the plate, the more room you have to fill it up. Opt for a smaller plate because it makes it easier to portion control.
5. Plan ahead.
It can be helpful to know what’s on the dinner menu, so you can plan ahead for what and how much you’ll eat.
6. Be kind to yourself.
Restrictive food rules often lead to overeating or even bingeing, so remember to show yourself some grace. It’s the holidays, and you should be busy enjoying time spent with your loved ones and not obsessing over every little thing.
Just keep active and eat mindfully, and you can keep off the holiday weight!
