Andy’s Nationally Published Articles :: Christmas Party Survival Tips
ALERT! It is estimated that the average American will gain SEVEN pounds
from Thanksgiving to New Years day.
It is easy to lose focus and let holiday parties become a celebration
of eating, rather than a celebration of family and friends. Don't resolve
yourself to gaining pounds this holiday season. Holiday parties do not
have to mean gluttonous eating or deprivation. This article provides
strategies that will allow you to enjoy the season and not end up with
a belly like a bowl full of jelly.
1. Talk More, Eat Less
It's time to bring the focus back to the purpose of the holiday. Bring
into focus your friends and family, the time off and the traditions of
the holidays.
2. Choose Your Poison
You have choices when it comes to holiday fare. Don't waste a splurge
on a food that you don't absolutely love. You know what will be on the
Christmas dinner table. Plan ahead and skip the foods you can live without.
3. Bulk Up Your Plate, Not Your Body
Party guests will draw attention to your food choices if you have an empty
plate. You can be part of the party and win the battle the bulge if you
fill your plate with vegetables and fruit. Start with these foods and
then finish with a little of the "other." Eat the fruits and veggies
first so you will be less hungry when you get to the calorically dense
foods.
4. Skipping Meals Will Make You Fat, Especially During the Holidays.
If you miss breakfast or lunch you will find your hand in every bowl of
candy and your head stuck in every holiday gift basket. Eating three
solid meals each day is a must. If you want to be ahead of the game,
plan and pack a 10am and 3pm snack.
5. Eat to Boost Your Willpower
Going to a party on an empty stomach is a recipe for disaster. A key
strategy is to have a healthy snack before you go to a holiday meal.
Eating before you go will take the edge off you hunger and you will be
less likely overdue the fondue.
6. Exercise is the X Factor
In my experience, people who exercise on the day of a party typically
desire fattening foods less and will make healthier choices. By taking
a walk before the party you will boost your metabolism and fortify your
willpower.
7. Dessert is Stressed Spelled Backwards
The holiday season can be a tiring, stressful and even depressing time.
Comfort eating is a problem for many of us. The problem is like paying
minimum payments on high interest credit cards- the eventual cost is too
high. In place of eating to feel better, make time for relaxation and
exercise. Exercise has been proven to be as effective for reducing the
blues as anti-depressant medication. If exercise is not an option then
try sitting down with some hot tea and relaxing music.
8. Damage Control
If you lose motivation and eat too much figgy pudding, don't shift into
training for the Obesity Olympics. Most of us tend to eat out of control
after we give in to that initial temptation. If you blow it, don't take
it so hard, everyone blows it now and then. The key to overall health
is to eat healthy overall. A few meals with less than healthy choices
will not lead to your downfall.
Overall, remember the meaning of the holidays and, this year, focus on
giving and not receiving!
©2003 Core Wellness All Rights Reserved
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