Be Active With Family and Friends
Sedentary activities, such as sitting on the couch watching sports, are common holiday traditions for many families.
Inactivity may contribute to weight gain, especially when lounging around is accompanied by eating excessive amounts of food.
Doing some type of physical activity while on holiday with your family may prove to be beneficial for weight control.
An activity as simple as a family walk can provide benefits, as it will get your mind off food and allow you to bond with your loved ones.
You can also be active during the holidays by signing up for a workplace or community fitness competition or event. Running races are popular options.
Choose Desserts Wisely and Savor Them
Dessert is everywhere during the holiday season. This often leads to excessive sugar consumption, a common cause of weight gain.
Instead of eating every treat in sight, it can be helpful to focus on your favorites. Eat the ones you really want and ditch the rest.
Another trick is to savor the desserts you do indulge in, which may leave you feeling more satisfied and less likely to overdo dessert.
To savor desserts, eat them slowly and mindfully so you can really taste and enjoy them.
Limit Liquid Calories
The holidays are a time of year when alcohol, soda and other sweetened beverages seem to be unlimited.
These beverages can contribute a significant amount of sugar and empty calories to your diet, which can cause weight gain.
Additionally, alcohol consumption is often linked to increased appetite and is a risk factor for weight gain.
If you're trying to control your weight, it is best to limit liquid calories during the holidays — and all year long, for that matter.
Use a Smaller Plate
Dinner parties and potlucks are common occasions during the holiday season.
While people often think of these as diet disasters, they don't have to be if you eat from a smaller plate.
This is based on the fact that people tend to consume larger portions off of large plates, which may lead to overeating.
By using the simple trick of choosing a smaller plate, you can control portions and therefore reduce the likelihood of holiday weight gain.
Use the Buddy System
Many people report success with their weight goals when they have a partner to pursue them with.
Finding a health buddy who has similar weight goals may be useful over the holidays, as this person can keep you motivated and accountable.
Reach out to friends, family and co-workers to find someone willing to partner with you in your effort to prevent weight gain.
Avoid Processed Foods
The hectic holiday season has led to the increased availability of processed holiday convenience foods, such as boxed mashed potatoes and stuffing.
While these may be quick and easy, they often contain excess sugar and unhealthy fats that are not good for weight control.
To prevent weight gain, opt for whole foods this holiday season. Focus on making meals and baked goods from scratch instead of a box.
That way, you can control what goes in your food and stay on top of your weight.