It's the time of year for feasting and fun. Unfortunately, for some folks this time of year can be highly stressful, especially for those trying to maintain their weight.
Keep in mind that it is quite normal to gain a little weight when the weather gets colder - it helps the body naturally insulate and protect itself against the harsh winter elements. A five to seven pound gain is considered normal, but anything above that may not be.
Below are seven simple steps to help you experience the holidays healthfully:
1. EAT REGULAR MEALS
Skipping meals in an attempt to save calories leaves your body in a state of starvation. If you arrive at a party or family gathering famished, you may be more likely to gorge on anything and everything in sight. Eat normally and sensibly throughout the day and your body will be satisfied nutritionally with no physical need to binge.
2. EAT A NORMAL SIZED PORTION
Holiday time brings a wide variety of rich and delicious food to the table. It’s easy to overfill the plate. Treat a holiday meal as you would any other meal; enjoy a little bit of everything, but remember to take human bites!
3. EAT MINDFULLY
Be conscious of your food, slow down, and savor every mouthful. Use your senses to guide you. Visually, look at the food on your plate. Is it colorful? Does it look appetizing? Use your nose to inhale the aroma. Is the scent appealing? Place a small amount of food inside your mouth and feel its texture on your tongue and teeth. Is it creamy or crunchy or somewhere in the middle? Finally, it's time to taste the food; is it sweet, salty, bitter, pungent, or spicy? If you allow yourself to experience food more intimately with your senses the first time around, you may have no desire for second or third helpings.
4. FREEDOM
Give yourself freedom to eat anything you want. Do NOT forbid any specific food otherwise you might create an unhealthy obsession for it! Forbidding food oftentimes causes overeating of other foods in search of something to satisfy that initial craving. And then, you may wind up eating the “forbidden” food anyway - egads! Let yourself fully enjoy whatever you want. Remember to slow down and mindfully eat a normal sized portion (re-read tip #3).
5. BRING A DISH
Make your favorite holiday dish using the best quality organic, natural ingredients, and add an extra dash of love! Sharing food with friends and family is a great way to express your creativity and affection for those you care about. For delicious holiday recipes check out my Whole Truth Eating and Recipe Guide. http://www.andreabeaman.com/theWholeTruth_ERG.html
6. EXERCISE, EXERCISE, EXERCISE
Even though you may be away from home and your regular exercise routine, it’s wise to get your body moving wherever you are. Take a walk with a friend or family member before or after dinner. You could even ask if they belong to a gym and want to go for a workout with you. Exercising with family and friends is a great way to bond during the holidays while keeping your physical body healthy at the same time.
7. ENJOY YOURSELF!
This last healthy tip is self-explanatory. Happy Holidays!