4 Tips to Avoid Crazy Holiday Weight Gain

When you think of the holiday season, you think of beautiful twinkling lights carefully hung on a beautifully decorated tree. Wrapping up the perfect gift to surprise someone special. And – if you’re anything like me – you definitely think of holiday dinners and cookies and treats too! And while festive foods are always going to be a part of celebrating the season, you don’t have to let all of that holiday excess lead to a bigger you in the New Year. Follow these tips to help keep your weight under control, without feeling like you’re missing out on all of the fun…

How to have your fruitcake and eat it too….

It’s not hard to prevent holiday weight gain – while still being able to indulge a little, and enjoy your favorite flavors of the season. I’ve put together a few of the tips that help me from overindulging, while still allowing me to feel like I’m part of the fun. And it’s not just about what you eat or don’t eat – there are a few other lifestyle choices to think about too. Read on to learn my best tips…

Slim down your recipes: Don’t skip the holiday dinners and treats, just make a few swaps to make them healthier. If you’re in need of better choices when dining out, the Food Swap Guide can help you make better picks. And use the Best Diet Substitutes list to make your favorite dishes slimmer by making swaps like sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes, or a surprising substitution for mayo!
Healthy lifestyle choices: It’s not just what you eat that will keep your weight in check – it’s the other lifestyle choices you make too. So be sure to get enough sleep, get more active {try using a cool tool like the FitBit to track your daily calories burned}, and try to keep that stress level down by scheduling in some “me time” between all of those holiday chores and obligations.
Don’t fight it: If you try to stick to a super strict diet during the holidays, you’re going to end up feeling deprived – which leads to a break down in motivation and willpower, and big splurges. So, just keep things in moderation. If you know you’ll be spending time at a food-centered evening event, eat a light lunch, take an afternoon walk, and make sure to fill up on something healthy before heading to the party. Chew some sugar-free gum while you’re there to keep cravings at bay. And then feel free to indulge in just a small portion of your very favorite dishes, so you still get to be a part of the fun!
Add a supplement: If you’re really struggling with your weight, and want a little boost – there are a ton of supplements, diet aids, and other potions that claim to help you lose more. It can be confusing to wade through them all, and most sites that offer info are also earning a commission on those same products that are being promoted. For a guide to help you determine which ones are really the best diet pills, and learn the pros and cons of any that you are considering, search a reputable review site. These can be a great way to boost weight loss results when you combine them with a smart diet plan, and a healthy lifestyle!

These tips will help you stay happy, healthy, and feeling great year-round, but are definitely very relevant at this time of year. By making some smart choices and changes, you’ll still be able to enjoy some of your favorite holiday traditions and treats, while still fitting into your favorite festive dress to celebrate New Year’s Eve!