Just one holiday meal can provide over 3,000 calories, and that does not include other meals and snacks you may enjoy the same day. And though the average weight gain from Thanksgiving to New Year-s is just 1 pound, 1 pound here and 1 pound there can add up to 20 pounds before you know it.
With a little planning and some mindful eating, you can maintain your weight and still enjoy the winter months and the holidays that come along with them. Here are some tips to help.
Make Healthy Substitutions
For example, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, serve turkey with veggies or cauliflower rice instead of sweet potatoes, and use stevia in desserts instead of sugar. Instead of cocktails serve mocktails (use seltzer water, fresh fruit, and sugar-free syrups to make some delicious creations). These small changes can help you cut calories and stay fit.
Select Lean Proteins
Always choose lean meats instead of cuts with more fat. Since proteins such as turkey, chicken, and roast beef often go on sale during this time, it is a perfect time to stock your freezer. If you are invited at a party, offer to bring a roasted chicken or a healthy dish from the Signature Patient Website to help everyone eat healthier.
Avoid the Stuff
Did you know that when dining in a social setting we may eat up to 44 percent more calories than we would when dining alone. When you are surrounded by friends and family, it is easy to lose track of what you are eating. Try eating before going to events. This will help make the gatherings and parties more about enjoying good conversation and good fun with friends and family and less about eating. As a bonus, you will not eat too much and feel stuffed.
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be an exhaustive examination of the subject matter nor a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your primary care physician or healthcare provider before beginning any diet or exercise program.
Active Medi-Weightloss® patients should consult the experts at their location on whether the foods and recipes mentioned are appropriate for their stage of the program.