How to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain

Holidays are a time when family and friends enjoy each other’s company and eat, so there is no surprise that maintaining a healthy weight can present even more challenges during the holidays than throughout the rest of the year. Below are a few tips to help you keep your weight in check without giving up your holiday traditions. 

1. Portion Size

With the holidays approaching it can be difficult to not overload your plate full of goodies. The best way to control this is to portion out your meal or to use smaller plates.

2. Skip out on seconds 

Holiday meals are sometimes served buffet-style, with several options to choose from in unlimited amounts. Plan to just have one plate and skip out on seconds.

3. Control Stress 

A high stress level can cause more cravings for junk food so it is critical to keep your stress under control, especially during the holidays when you might be busy and surrounded by unhealthy food.

4. Bring a healthy dish to share

You have control over what you consume. By bringing a healthy dish to share with others, it guarantees that you will have something to eat that is in line with your health goals. 

5. Starch intake

Starch is a very simple carbohydrate that is digested and broken down so quickly that it may as well be sugar.  Breads, potatoes, pasta and rice are examples. I’m not saying don’t eat these, just eat it in moderation during the holiday season.

I hope you found these tips to be helpful while you enjoy your holiday feasts and festivities. Happy Holidays!