The average American gains one to two pounds during the holidays. Don’t let the numbers fool you into thinking you can abandon your healthy eating and fitness routines; these pounds add up quickly year after year and contribute to weight gain and obesity.
Make your gatherings about spending time with the ones you love and less about loading up on high fat and high calorie foods. Follow these tips to help you maintain, and not gain this holiday season:
- Start each day with a 30 minute walk and include another walk after big meals.
- Know your weight maintenance calories. For women this is 10 calories per pound of body weight; for men it is 11 calories per pound of body weight. If you go over your maintenance calories add in more exercise to compensate.
- If hosting a celebration, provide healthier food and drink options. Include a few simple veggies on the menu like baked sweet potatoes, and look for lower calorie options of your favorite dishes. Always have zero calorie beverages available.
- Choose single crust pies instead of double crust and cut small portions when serving. This helps reduce the amount of calories and fat you and your guests eat without feeling like you are sacrificing or missing
out on anything.
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