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Getting Through the Holidays Without Gaining Weight




Enjoy the Holiday Feasts wisely
When the holiday season arrives, holiday foods and meals take center stage. And this is one of the joys of the season. Food is a terrific part of the celebration of friendships, of family and of love. But these celebrations do not have to lead one to unhealthy eating habits. By doing a little advance planning, you can enjoy your food and the holidays. Consider that the mental attitude you bring to the table is as important as what's on the tablecloth.

1. Plan Ahead. Think about what is likely to be served at holiday meals otherwise the best intentions Can fall by the wayside faster than you can shake a drumstick. If you cannot pass up the cornbread or cinnamon buns warm from the oven or Aunt Mary's amazing apple strudel, then decide ahead of time what and how much you will eat. So you can sample the delights without being stuffed with them. If you're going to eat the apple strudel, that's fine, But remember to cut back on the quiche and pastry puff appetizers when you arrive. Pace yourself throughout the meal.

2. Strategize. So if you're not eating puff pastry appetizers, what are you going to eat? If you're going to someone's house for the holidays or if it's in your home, serve something that is good to eat like a salad, lots of vegetables and maybe shrimp cocktails Take larger portions of those foods and smaller portions of the rest of the meal. Eat your vegetables first. They'll fill you up, leaving less room for the more calorie-packed stuffing, mashed potatoes and pumkin pie.

3. Relationships first, food second. Yes, the holidays have wonderful foods, everywhere. But the reason you're gathered together with relatives and friends, rather than eating alone is to socialize. Focus on the people and what you're doing instead of thinking about how to get those last potato puffs before Aunt Tracey does. Let Aunt Tracey have it. Besides, if her mouth is full, it will keep her from gossiping and give you the opportunity to connect with people you care about.

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4. Eat small meals throughout the day. Don't make the mistake of eating virtually nothing during the day to "save" extra calories for the big meal. Your body will think it's never going to eat again and you will end up devoring things you don't particularly like. Eat high-fiber mini meals for breakfast and lunch with a snack (think whole fruit) in between to prevent an all-out binge.

5. Slow down. It takes 20 minutes for your brain to register fullness. Put down your fork and talk to your neighbor.

6. Water, Water, Water. We often eat, when we are really thirsty. Drink water before, during and after the meal to ensure you are well hydrated.

7. "Let's toast the Holidays!" Although it is important to drink liquids, alcohol dehydrates you and loosens your resolve to eat healthfully. Calories can really add up when one drinks and it is not just from the alcohol. Studies show that when we imbibe, we eat almost 20% more than our teetotaling friends. For an easy option, consider a wine spritzer or save the first toast for when the turkey is served, and sip four ounces instead of the usual eight.

8. Go for a walk. Instead of watching football on the couch all afternoon, munching on chips and dips, why don't you gather everyone for a long walk? Taking a 45-minute walk can burn up almost 250 calories. This is a wonderful holiday tradition you could start. If nothing else, you're not home eating the leftovers.

9. Talk kindly to yourself. Banish the mantra, "I always gain weight over the holidays." Instead say to yourself, "I am giving myself the gift of health. I can eat and enjoy any food I want in moderation." Or as the diet Dr. Gullo says, "Thin tastes better."

10. Enjoy the season of celebration. Remember the holidays are about coming from a place of gratitude. And we have a lot to be grateful for. Treat yourself well with friends, with loved ones and yes, with foods.

About the author:  Helene Haber, HHC, is a board certified health counselor who specializes in nutrition and whole health. She designs personalized wellness solutions for women of all ages looking to enhance their lives, get their bodies back in shape and their health back on track. You can contact her at TopCatHelene@aol.com.








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