3 Simple Tricks to Prevent Holiday Weight Gain
Here are 3 simple simple tricks to prevent holiday weight gain this season. For many of us, it’s not just a joyful time but also an excuse to indulge in our favorite treats.
From stuffed turkey and meatballs to apple pie, temptation is everywhere. It’s no wonder why the average American gains about five pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. Canadians aren’t too far either.
Luckily, the holidays don’t have to equal weight gain. From portion control to smart food swaps, there are ways to keep fit without giving up dessert.
Start the Day with Protein
Just because you’re going to eat more later in the day, it doesn’t mean you should skip breakfast. Actually, it’s one of the worst things you can do.
A healthy, nutritious breakfast will suppress appetite and curb sugar cravings. It also keeps your blood sugar within normal limits and provides lasting energy.
Start the day with protein. Scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, frittata, and even chicken breast are all a great choice.
Make Smart Food Swaps
The holiday season isn’t an excuse to load up on foods that you wouldn’t normally eat. Green bean casserole, sweet mayo carrot slaw, pecan pie, and baked potatoes with toppings are among the worst choices from a health perspective.
To cut calories, swap starches for veggies. Eat steak, fish, or any other meat dish with salad or pickled vegetables.
If you’re the party host, cook roasted Brussels sprouts instead of green bean casserole, wild rice stuffing instead of sausage stuffing, and hummus instead of creamy dips. Pecan pie can be replaced with apple or pumpkin pie, which has fewer calories.
Choose Your Booze Wisely
Alcohol is one of the worst sources of calories. Actually, it has nine calories per gram. Liquors and cocktails are the highest in calories.
If you’re not willing to give up booze, stick to wine. A glass of red wine, for instance, has just 125 calories. Vodka, rum, gin, and whiskey boast about 97 calories per serving, so you can take a few sips without ruining your diet. Pina colada, on the other hand, has up to 500 calories per glass.
To stay hydrated and prevent a hangover, drink one glass of water for every glass of alcohol consumed.
Remember that this time of the year is all about family and friends, not food. Focus on socializing, eat mindfully, and stay active throughout the day.
The holiday season is around the corner. For many of us, it’s not just a joyful time but also an excuse to indulge in our favorite treats.
From stuffed turkey and meatballs to apple pie, temptation is everywhere. It’s no wonder why the average American gains about five pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. Canadians aren’t too far either.
Luckily, the holidays don’t have to equal weight gain. From portion control to smart food swaps, there are ways to keep fit without giving up dessert.
