Healthy Eating During the Holidays

Everyone knows that healthy eating during the holidays is tough. At work there's the grandmother or mother of the department who is looking for a reason to cook sweets and does a pretty good job at it. At home you or a family member want to try different recipes to prepare for Christmas or Thanksgiving. Then there's the leftovers! Even at the local grocer- there are enough food samples to get your tummy filled! Parties, parties, parties! Add in the cocktails and you are sure to gain 5-10 lbs within a month. So how do we avoid the 'holiday bulge'?

1. Continue the exercise. I know it's cold outside and jogging can be more difficult but joining a gym may prove to be truly beneficial if you can't tolerate the cold air. If you simply don't have the time to exercise, walk more frequently by parking further away from the store, taking the stairs, walking in the malls while shopping, etc. There are many ways to get the needed exercise and just 30 minutes a day can help keep away the unwanted pounds!
2. Limit the sweets and 'empty' calorie foods- Parties and granny's holiday goodies will surely help you pack on the pounds. Limit them. Just say no! You have to plan ahead! Impulsive eating will destroy a well planned day!
3. Limit the dips- Dips are usually packed with unwanted fat and calories. Eat it dry instead.
4. Have healthy snacks nearby- Almonds, nuts, fruit are all good choices that will help you avoid impulsive eating. The fattening foods won;t appear quite as appealing.
5. Arrive late to parties. Most likely the 'bad' foods will be gone!
6. Bring a healthy dish or host the party yourself- Being healthier is in style. With the rise in obesity rates in the US and the highlights on heart disease, strokes, etc, your family and friends will appreciate you keeping their well-being in mind.
7. Eat before you go to a party- You will be satisfied and less tempted to eat and inhale foods before you even think about the calories and fat content.
7. If you mess up, start fresh tomorrow and turn the week around- It is never too late to start over and try it again.