Are you constantly being bombarded with tempting foods and drinks this holiday season? Are you too busy to keep up your exercise routine. How about planning ahead by buying a few healthy tools you can incorporate into a healthy you after the first of the year. I just got a Fitbit and an Instant pot and am excited to use both as I kick off 2019. These are great gift ideas if you want to give a year of health to your loved ones. For other suggestions check out NY Times writer Melissa Clark's many favorite tools including the Instant Pot. In the interim though here are some tips to manage through this holiday season.
How about making a New Year’s resolution before the New Year? How can you maintain your weight if constantly surrounded by your favorite high-calorie goodies and holiday drinks? Of note, the average American gains five to ten pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Read on for some tips on how not to become a statistic.
Dieting is near impossible this time of year, thus your goal should be to maintain not reduce your current weight. Plan and assemble several quick, healthy meals that can be readily available for reheating to avoid relying on high-fat fast food when your days become chaotic.
Avoid attending a holiday party on an empty stomach. If you plan to drink cocktails be sure to have some food first as the side effects of alcohol are felt much more quickly and can lead to overeating and over-drinking. If you do drink alcohol, it is recommended to drink one glass of water before each glass of an alcoholic beverage.
If attending a party, offer to bring a favorite healthy treat to be assured there will be at least one "safe" item available to snack on. Stand far away from buffets so you're not tempted to nibble constantly. When selecting hors d'oeuvres choose the ones that contain whole grains and/or legumes while staying away from the high fat, high sugar options. Instead of totally cutting out high-calorie favorite holiday dishes, take a small portion of each and load up on healthier options like vegetables, fruits and breads.
Remember to continue your regular exercise program through the holidays as best as possible. Even if this means extra long walks with your dog or doing a 15 minute yoga routine this is the key to maintaining good health and alleviating holiday stress.
Lastly be sure to get enough sleep and be mindful of spreading germs. Wash your hands frequently and be avoid sharing drinking glasses or utensils amongst friends.
As the year wraps up I hope you will make the most of these tips to enjoy a happy, healthy season and launch a newer version of this self as you approach the new year.
Wendy is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Needham. She enjoys blogging about things near and dear to her lifestyle. You can check out her Pinterest page to learn more about recipes she is trying with her new instant pot.
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