Holiday Survival Guide
Halloween is gone, but the candy still lingers in your kids’ plastic pumpkins. Then you get hit with the one-two punch of Thanksgiving and Christmas. While many people find joy in the holiday season, for those trying to lose weight it can be the most miserable time of the year.
Though you may be tempted (meal after meal) to throw in the towel on your regular healthy eating habits, it’s important to stick to your guns, focus on your goals and not implode. No good decision-making ever came after the three little words, “Yeah, who cares!” For example: “Should I eat another slice of pizza? Yeah, who cares!” “How about another drink? Yeah, who cares!” Trust me… that one phrase screams derailment.
The following are some tips to help you stay on track this holiday season:
Have a Plan… and Don’t Make Skipping Meals One of Them!
‘Tis the season to be jolly, not a hangry maniac! Skipping meals will guarantee your failure as it leads to increased hunger, binge eating and depriving your body of the necessary calories to convert to energy.
Instead, maintain a normal, healthy eating routine while continuing your daily water intake. Focus on filling your plate with vegetables and lean meats. Make sure you’re flushing out any extra sodium by throwing back a few Poland Springs.
Also, make sure you’re listening to your body – stop eating when you feel satisfied! That extra helping of mashed potatoes could mean the difference between feeling content and slipping into a food-coma.
Take Ownership:
If you gained five pounds at Thanksgiving, it’s your own fault. Don’t blame the Halloween candy, your cousin Eddie, or the pumpkin pie. It’s very possible to control what you eat this time of year but it’s ultimately your responsibility to stay on track. A great idea, if you’re not a fan of totally “taking the wheel” aka taking ownership, is to work with a trainer. They’ll make sure you feel accountable for your actions and they’ll help you stay strong during your moments of weakness.
Journal your food and be honest! Honesty is the best policy. If you think about having to write down that you’re three slices deep into a chocolate cake, you may rethink the whole scenario before it even happens.
Exercising is Not an Excuse to Raid the Fridge:
Many people think they can run the Manchester Road Race or hit the gym a few times during the holidays so they can indulge in the holiday feast. Working out and exercise is great, but it’s never a pass to load up on bad food at the holidays.
Wear Clothes that Fit to the Holiday Table:
Don’t wear something that fits loosely and hides any excess fat. And by all means if you are even thinking of donning sweatpants or Sponge Bob PJ pants (you know the ones I’m talking about) to the table – shame on you! Wear something that fits your body; something that doesn’t expand as your stomach does. Your clothes will be a friendly reminder to pull back on the reigns when you reach for that dessert, second serving of stuffing or the third glass of eggnog. Your stomach and jeans will thank you later!
Plan Ahead for Success:
Be sure to schedule your workouts just like you schedule the other important things in your life. Find our holiday hours and class schedules HERE!
