How to Manage Your Weight during the Holidays

The hardest time of the year to stay on track is during the Holidays. Everywhere you turn, you find temptation lurking in cream puffs, cookies, and cakes. If you put a little thought and apply these tips into your routine, you will be able to manage your weight despite the temptations.

How to Manage Your Weight during the Holidays

Meals

To stay on track you should eat 3 meals a day, every day of the week. Skipping a meal, such as breakfast, will trick your body into thinking you are starving, which causes your body to hang onto fat. Nourishing your body will help you maintain your weight.

Portions

Not getting enough of a food group, or getting too much of one will throw everything off track. To size your portions you should reference the size of a deck of cards when dishing up your plate. As always, feel free to eat any amount of vegetables. Increasing your veggie portion will help you stay fuller longer.

Fiber

Fiber is a great way to keep hunger at bay. Try replacing the lettuce in your salads and meals with fresh spinach, and try squeezing it in to your regular recipes as a filler. Stay away from canned and frozen spinach, the flavor is MUCH better when eaten fresh.

Stay Hydrated

It is just as important to stay hydrated during the winter as it is in the summer. Since it is so cold in the winter it can be challenging to get the water your body needs every day. Keep a water bottle by your side throughout the day so it is easily accessible. You can also spruce your water up by adding cucumbers, lemon, or oranges.

Temptation

You will have to use self-control to curb temptation. One way to help with this huge challenge is to allow yourself to have a little bit of the treat. The key is to not over eat. Think about your long term goal of staying on track through the Holidays. Find the strength and stick to your plan.

Stay Moving

Physical activities decrease tremendously during the winter months. You must keep moving regardless of the weather. If you do not have a treadmill or elliptical to use in your home, try using a workout routine on a video game. That way you can still stay active without having to face the elements. Chances are you will get the kiddos off of the couch and join you too!

Above all, try not to stress over the Holidays. Slow down, enjoy the moment, and encourage yourself to stay on track this Holiday season. Please share your weight management tips with us!

More Holiday Fitness Tips

Holiday Diet Tips: 10 Calorie Bombs to Avoid this Holiday Season

Making Healthy Food Choices During the Holiday Season

5 Ways to Stick to Your Holiday Diet Plan

Indoor Exercises for When the Weather is Bad

Amanda Murphy’s other passion in life, besides writing, is spending time with her family. She’s a married mother of three boys! They are 12, 7, and 18 months old. Her hands stay full 100% of the time, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.