Holiday Season Weight Maintenance

November 23, 2011

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Well, maybe not for losing or maintaining our body weight! Everyone has common sense enough to know that it’s o.k. to splurge in moderation, right? It’s not a good idea to set ourselves up for failure by saying that we will not participate in holiday eating extravaganzas! It’s just too tempting! So, my suggestion is to just set yourself a goal of maintaining the weight you are at right now until January 1st. That is very realistic and attainable. Make a few simple changes, and you’ll maintain-or even lose- weight in the coming weeks. No one expects you to count calories every day, but having a game plan going into the holiday season really makes sense.
Cut corners where you can. Here is a list of holiday favorites and suggestions on ways to cut calories by choosing other options.
Holiday Meal Choose Calories saved
1 mixed drink 4 oz. red wine 130
1 cup eggnog 4 oz. sparkling grape juice 220
½ cup mashed potatoes/gravy 1 baked potato w/ sour cream 200
½ cup green bean casserole ½ cup sautéed green beans 175
1 cup stuffing 3 cups salad w/ FF dressing 260
1 piece pecan pie 1 piece of pumpkin pie 300
Saved: 1,285!!!!
Remember also that you should “earn” your over indulging days my making sure you keep up with your physical activity! On days when you are not celebrating, stick to lean meats, whole grains, fruits and extra veggies. An extra 20 minutes of exercise will help too…..and YES, you do have time for it! Sneak it in by bringing your stability ball out into the open where you can see it! Make extra trips up and down the stairs, and walk around the mall a few times before you start holiday shopping! Make your New Year’s resolutions easier on yourself…start now and it won’t seem so hard January 1!!