Tips to Keep Off Holiday Weight
Posted on December 14, 2017 under healthy holiday eating, holiday preparation, holiday tips, holiday weight, holidays
Filled with festivities, friends, and family, the holidays are a wonderful time of year. Unfortunately, they can also take quite a toll on your waistline. But don’t fret! We’ve got some helpful tips to keep your food and appetite on the level this holiday season.
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Drink lots of water
One glass of water between every alcoholic drink will not only help you cut back on your calorie intake, but will also keep your body hydrated (no headaches!). Or try drinking a glass of water before your big meal to curb the desire to over-indulge.
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Never attend a party hungry
Eat a nutritious meal that’s high in protein to avoid over-snacking at holiday parties.
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Freeze leftovers
Avoid the “I’ve gotta eat this before it goes bad” scenario. Freeze your leftovers or send guests home with a container of delicious snacks for later.
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Eat slowly
Studies have found that it can take your brain up to 20 minutes to get the message that your stomach is full. The faster you eat, the more you’ll devour before the tank finally reads full. Chew slowly and savor your tasty holiday snacks.
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Cut out butter and salt
Use liquid stock or bouillon & seasonings to give your recipes a flavorful punch without the extra calories.
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Give in to cravings
This isn’t an excuse to eat whatever you want, of course, but a small slice of that pie you’ve been looking forward to is totally acceptable.
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Eat healthy fats
Not all fats are bad! Your body needs fats in order to absorb certain vitamins such as E, K and D and to provide energy. Avoid animal fats like butter, and get your daily fat intake from avocados, nuts and olive oil.
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Let go of stress
The hormones your body releases when you’re stressed have the adverse effect of storing more calories than you normally would. The holidays can get busy fast, so make sure that you’re getting an adequate amount of sleep and planning ahead to avoid stressors.