The holiday season is in effect and we all know that means festive food overload. A lot of eating followed by weight gain is a typical pattern for most people. The good news is you don’t have to deprive yourself of your favorite holiday foods in order to maintain health during the last seasons of the year. These 6 tips will help you indulge your favorite foods while reducing the impact of negative consequences:
- Portion Control
Portion size is important throughout the entire year, but especially during the holidays. Opportunities to eat festive snacks and desserts will happen often. Eating smaller portions and lessening how frequently you eat holiday treats can help gear you away from weight gain.
- Eat when you’re hungry
Holiday parties and potlucks happen recurrently and it’s important to indulge only when you’re hungry. Don’t treat yourself only because the food is available.
- Pace yourself
Eat slowly and savor every bite. Wait 10 minutes before going back for seconds to see if you really are still hungry.
- Do not skip meals throughout the day
Skipping meals throughout the day to prepare for a big holiday feast may lead to overeating. It is especially important to have breakfast, as research shows that those who eat this important morning meal tend to consume fewer calories throughout the day.
- Strategize
There are many strategies to help you avoid overeating. For instance, using a smaller plate allows you to serve yourself less food. Also, eating vegetables and a salad before entrees and desserts can help you become full faster and prevent you from overeating on foods with higher calories like desserts, pasta, and bread.
- Stay active
Chilly weather tends to give people the urge to want to stay indoors, but don’t worry there are plenty of indoor activities that allow you to get a workout done while staying warm. There are plenty of options to choose from like walking up and down the stairs at home or at the workplace, working out at the gym or even joining an indoor sports team like basketball.
Eating healthy and staying active during the holiday season is achievable by being mindful of your food intake and ensuring you are continuing your workout schedule.
Nova Medical Centers specializes in occupational health. Attending to your health and safety needs is our number one priority. We proudly offer onsite health fairs that provide employees with health tips, blood pressure checks, BMI and much more. Contact us today to schedule a health fair or for more information on any of our other services.
Written by Nayda Sanchez
