How To Avoid Holiday Weight Gain

By Susan Megge

Don't eat. Starve. Relax; I'm just kidding. Believe it or not, you really can enjoy the holidays and the goodies that come with them - all without gaining that dreaded weight. Just remember these few words: Moderation and Portion Control. You see, it's usually overindulgence that leads to weight gain during the holidays. If you can control your portions and not overindulge, you'll be amazed how the weight will stay off.

If you happen to work in an office, whose employees are the recipients of many holiday treats never arrive at work hungry. First of all, you should always eat breakfast anyway - not just during the holidays. But, if you're not in the habit of eating breakfast, start doing so now. Not only do you want to arrive at work with a full stomach, but keep this in mind for each and every party or event you'll attend this holiday season. Perhaps have a nutritious snack or a small meal before you go out. This should help you to avoid eating too many goodies. Yes, you'll still enjoy a few treats, but instead of reaching for many, you'll simply reach for a few.

It's also important to remember that you're going to parties to enjoy yourself, and food isn't the only way in which you can do so. Socialize, dance and focus on great stories and good friends. There's so much more to the holidays than food and it's time to start enjoying all of the wonders that the holidays bring. And when you do decide to enjoy a treat, be sure to eat slowly and savor each bite. As you probably know, chewing more slowly will help to fill you up with less food.

If you're going to an event where dinner is served, you'll want to fill your plate with a single layer. You see, you'll still be enjoying the foods that are served, but if you're not stacking your plate sky-high, you will also be exercising the portion control that I mentioned earlier. While you may want to enjoy some of the rich foods that will be served, be sure to also add fresh fruits, vegetables and shrimp cocktail to help you fill up before you can eat too much of the "bad" food.

Also, if you should drink alcohol, limit your intake of this, as well. You see, once you start drinking you're less likely to have control - or care to have control, for that matter - over the foods you put in your mouth.

If you find that you're eating a little bit more than usual, simply exercise a bit to burn some extra calories. Weight training is a great way to build muscle and burn extra calories.

I'm all for having fun and eating holiday treats during this wonderful time of the year, but it's so important to remember to do so in moderation. If you can put these simple reminders into gear you're sure to have a fulfilling holiday season without all of the extra weight. Remember, don't stress over what you eat, rather enjoy holiday treats by using portion control.

About the Author: Susan Megge is a health and fitness expert started experiencing symptoms of perimenopause several years ago and researched various avenues to deal with these symptoms naturally.

Source: www.isnare.com