picture courtesy Hoosier Homemade
Oh, no the holidays are fast approaching! I've been seeing pictures and recipes for pumpkin cookies, pumpkin pie, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cupcakes, pumpkin bars, pumpkin bread and the list keeps going! And this is just for Thanksgiving! I think we all need some help to keep from gaining weight over the holidays.(Most Americans don't lose the weight they gain over the holidays, even with good intentions.)
So here are 12 ideas for you to try to keep your svelte girlish figure or in my case, to still fit into my jeans after Christmas!
1. You Are What You Eat
Read labels and think about what you are eating. If you're going on an all day shopping spree at the mall, consider bringing along your own healthy snacks. Offer to bring a healthy dish if you are a guest. If you're the host, you'll want to prepare some healthy dishes for your guests.
2. Watch Your Portion Size.
You've heard it before--portion control. Use smaller plates or visualize only filling your plate 1/2 full.
3. Outsmart the Buffet.
Use a small plate and don't stack your food. Limit your helpings to one of each food. Choose veggies, fruit and the shrimp cocktail. Watch the dips and sauces.
4. Shift the Conversation Away From the Table.
When you are done eating, move to another room. Sitting around the table after the meal is over just invites trouble.
5. How Much to Prepare?
Figure out how many people are expected to eat and then prepare enough food to satisfy them and have a few left-overs for the next day.
6. Choose Your Sweets
Be selective. Only take the ones that you really, really can't live without. (anything chocolate!) Limit your portions again.
7. Cheat A Little
After all, it is the holidays. Sticking to a strict diet and not having any fun can sabotage your diet later.
8. Divert Your Attention
When at your holiday festivities focus on something other than the food. Find someone to chat with away from the food.
9. Limit Alcohol
Lots of calories in alcohol. If you feel left out without a drink, sip water or Club Soda so that you have something to carry.
10.Never Arrive Hungry
Have a snack before you leave home. If you arrive hungry drink some water first to fill you up before you start eating.
11. Don't Skip Meals to Save Calories
'Nuff said.
12. Exercise
After you feast-walk! Get moving and burn off those extra calories. Start a new tradition the "Family Walk". Get everyone involved and it will be more fun.
Anything to add to the list? Ways you've found to keep the pounds off during the holidays?
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