The Holidays 101: 3 Tips to Stay on Track!

There’s nothing like spending quality time with family during the holidays. However, the holidays can come with its challenges. This time of year marks the time when you may ditch the healthy habits and splurge a bit. Research shows that although people don’t gain 5-10 pounds a year as originally thought, even a slight increase of 3 pounds over time makes a difference. Just think, 3 pounds over 10 years and you’re 30 pounds heavier! Don’t let the research discourage you; there are creative ways to enjoy your turkey day and stay on the wagon.


Tip #1 - Exercise. If possible, schedule your workout first thing in the morning. You’ll rev up your metabolism and give yourself an edge on caloric burn throughout the day. I recommend a strength training routine along with a short high-intensity interval run. If you can’t get your workout in early, do something - a post dinner walk or playtime with the kids.

Tip #2 - Use a small plate. Chances are high that you’ll have large plate to enjoy your food but don’t use it! A better choice is to eat mini-meals. Make your first plate a veggie platter, next enjoy some protein and veggies. By the time you get to plates three and four, you’ll have less room to load up on the calorie traps that can derail you.

Tip #3 - Talk more. The holidays doesn’t just have to be about food. Take the time to talk more to your loved ones. Do a service project together or play some board games. Studies show that the more interactive people are during meal time the less likely they will overeat. This phenomenon has to do with the amount of time it takes our brain to register that we’re satisfied - about 20 minutes.

Enjoy your day and remember to be thankful and enjoy spending it with family and friends - that’s what the holidays are all about!