As the majority of us know only too well, any attempt at healthy eating goes sailing out of the window during the holiday season. We tend to conveniently forget about our health and diet, and instead, take the opportunity to over-indulge in every way possible.
According to a recent Weight Watchers report, the average American gains around 7-10 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. In most cases, this is through pure over-indulgence. Moreover, much of this weight is maintained from thereon despite our promises (as we help ourselves to another dollop of pudding) to go on a diet in January.
It is not hard to understand why people fall into such bad habits during the holiday season. Everywhere you go there is somebody waiting to thrust a glass of wine or a box of chocolates in front of you. Surely it would be rude to refuse. And, anyway, it is the holidays... Your trip to the local supermarket turns into an adventure. You find yourself in a maze of aisles displaying a range of colorful, tempting goodies that are excitingly packaged and screaming at you to buy them and eat them... Even visits to friends and family are unsafe. You suddenly find the table laden with all manner of goodies, and as you hear the wine bottle cork being popped in the kitchen you resign yourself to the fact that you might as well give in. Here are some tips on staying on track:
- Don't go to a party hungry: we often eat faster and more when we are hungry - therefore eat a wholesome breakfast and lunch on the day of the event to avoid overeating at the party.
- Watch your portion: treat yourself a nice drink, dessert, chocolate or sweets without guilt, but always watch your portion. Go for small portions. This way you can sample all the different foods. Moderation is always the key.
- Make a conscious choice to limit high fat items: high fat food items can be found in fried food, cream-based soup, cheese-filled casseroles, pies, processed meats such as salami and sausages, some pastries and baked goods.
- Try different versions of egg nog: traditional egg nog is usually made with egg yolk and thick cream. Google "low fat egg nog" and you will find lots of low fat egg nog recipes. If you buy commercial egg nog, you will be delighted to find low-fat or fat-free egg nog out there - we can even find soy nog!
- Try other versions of alcohol: instead of beer, cider, Bailey's and Kahlua, try dry wine, Bloody Mary’s or spirits with diet mixer which have fewer calories. Remember: Calories from alcohol tend to be stored in the abdomen. People who are overweight actually gain weight more easily when they consume alcohol.
- Drink plenty of water: alcohol and coffee can dehydrate your body.
- Physical activity: take nice brisk walks with your loved ones and enjoy their company in the holiday season
WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?
Help your employees become empowered over their own health. Corporate Synergies is on your side and will work with you to provide the tools you need to provide your employees to become more able, skilled and confident manager of their family’s health. If you have any questions about healthy lifestyles, please contact Corporate Synergies at 1.866.CSG.1719 or click here to contact us.
|
