It's clear Eating Season has begun. For me this is the time when I really need to increase my workouts and try to stay on track with eating. If you are like me then maybe you could use some tips to help you avoid looking like a Snowman by the time New Years Eve rolls around!
Tips to help avoid the dreaded holiday weight gain:
1) Buy Halloween candy you hate. For me it's Tootsie Rolls, Blow Pops or Pixy Sticks. If you don't like them you won't be tempted to stuff your face with them after dinner.
2) Stay on track with working out. It might be tough but schedule time to get it done. Commit to just 20 minutes of cardio at least 3 or 4 times a week. I guarantee if you just say you will workout for 20 minutes you will end up going longer. And if you can't go longer, go stronger. Meaning if you walk on a treadmill, raise the incline several degrees. If you run, add short sprints, etc.
3) Bring a healthy dish to holiday gatherings. Be "that person" who always shows up with the veggie tray or the salad. And fill your plate with such items. When it comes to carbs and starches, don't deny yourself a roll, mashed pototes, gravy, etc just choose one instead of all of them!
4) Beware of the liquid calories. Watch those egg nog drinks, apple cider concoctions and chocolate drinks. Those calories do indeed count! Hydrate with water in between and limit yourself. Wine or light beer is a lighter option.
5) At a party, step away from where the food is displayed. It's easy to want to hang out and socialize near the dessert table but this can be dangerous. We tend to get caught up in conversation and before we know it, we've just devoured 4 cookies and a piece of pumpkin pie.
Most of all, don't stress if you have a bad day. Just become aware and correct it the next day.
What tips do you have to helping to avoid holiday weight gain?