People gain an average of 5 – 7 pounds during the holidays, don’t let it happen to you!
Treat yourself but don’t over indulge
Eat protein with each meal Protein helps keep you satiated and it’s key for preserving muscle mass.
Sneak in exercise Make all that running around work for you. Walk briskly, take stairs & take the long way around the mall. Instead of meeting a friend for coffee, chat while you power walk together.
Eat before you go Have something healthy and low calorie before you head out to that Christmas party. You wn’t be starving so you’ll likely eat less.
Fill up on the good stuff Enjoy the treats and special main courses but pile your plate with lots of fruit and veggies to help fill you up.
Give Yourself 20 minutes I know, everyone is extra busty right now so one of the first things to go by the wayside is your workout. But we all have 20 minutes. Do an interval training session a few times a week, studies show interval training is an effective way to burn fat. Get your heart rate up for 4 minutes by jumping rope, doing some squats & lunges then recover for 1 minute. Get your heart rate back up for another 4 minutes by doing some burpees, pushups and tricep dips. Then recover for 1 minute. You’ll burn fat and work your whole body. Repeat this sequence until your 20 minutes is up, go for 30 minutes if you have the time.
Bring a healthy contribution If you’re going to a potluck, make something healthy and delicious to bring so you know there will be at least one thing at the table you can enjoy that won’t pack on the pounds.
Watch the alcohol consumption I’m not sayin’ don’t drink, I’m all for boozin’ it up but choose wisely. Mixed drinks can be loaded with sugar and calories so stick to wine, simple drinks without sugary mixers or drink it neat baby.
Party hearty, just don’t drink all your calories
Moderation is key Don’t go hog wild just because it’s the holidays but don’t completely deprive yourself either. Have your moms famous Christmas cookies but don’t overindulge. Balance with small portions and eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. Sounds simple but it works. You’ll be happy when you’re not faced with trying to lose 5 pounds come January.
