Instead of waiting until the New Year to start on your resolution to lose weight, why not start now? There is no better time than the present to hop, skip, or jump on the road to a healthier lifestyle.
Here are some tips to get you started:
- First of all, remember that it is a holiDAY, not week, or month. Your healthy eating plan will not be ruined by one day if you choose your indulgences wisely. If you over-indulge at a holiday meal, put it behind you. Return to your usual eating plan the next meal without guilt or despair.
- Eat a light snack before going to holiday parties. It is not a good idea to arrive at a party on an empty stomach because you are more likely to overeat.
- Choose your beverages wisely. Alcohol is high in calories. Liquors, wines, and sweet mixed drinks are also very calorie dense. Select wine spritzers and light beers and use a non-caloric mixer, such as water or diet soda. Also, beware of eggnog! One cup typically has 350 calories!
- Keep in mind that the holidays are about friends and family, not the food! Socialize away from the food table or kitchen and focus on good conversation.
- Keep moving! Dancing is a great way to burn calories and add some physical activity to your day. Also, any physical activity is a great way to beat the stress of the holiday season, so grab your holiday tunes and start your day with a brisk walk.
- Be prepared. If you are traveling or on the go all day, pack some healthy snacks to take along with you. This will decrease your chances of eating high calorie fast food on the run.
- Try making healthy substitutions in your holiday baking and cooking. Modify recipes to trim the fat and calories.
- If you are hosting a party, make sure to offer nutritious, low calorie items. Try a Christmas tree veggie platter: Use broccoli and celery sticks to make the outline of a tree and trunk. Then use cherry tomatoes, cauliflower, carrot sticks, and more broccoli and celery to “decorate” the tree. Place a small dish filled with a low fat dipping sauce at the top to serve as the “star”!
- Remember, the holiday season may not be an ideal time for weight loss. Consider weight maintenance to be your goal.
By incorporating these tips you will have a head start on achieving those New Year’s resolutions. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!