December…the most hectic time of year for most of us, and its almost half over already! Are you stressed about getting everything done? Having a hard time fitting in your regular exercise routine? At Saratoga Health & Wellness, this is the month when we see our attendance drop a bit. Do you find yourself eating foods that you don’t normally eat? It’s almost as if we give-in to the fact that we’re going to gain weight each holiday season.
Celebrating the holidays doesn’t have to be synonymous with weight gain and poor lifestyle habits. It may not be a time to lose weight but it doesn’t have to be a time to lose your health!
Here are some tips to help you “survive” the holiday season and maintain your health.
#1: Stock Your Kitchen
Now, more than ever is the time to keep your kitchen stocked with healthy food and snacks. The busier we become, the more likely we are to grab whatever is most convenient. Some healthy snacks to have on hand: Fruit (fresh or dried), Nuts (1 oz), Low-fat cottage cheese (1 cup), and Yogurt (6 oz).
#2: Plan Your Exercise
Your exercise may not be what it is the rest of the year. Plan to schedule your exercise (at least 3 times per week) just like you would any other appointment during your week.
#3: Just Say No
Many people aren’t aware of how many extra calories they consume just from people offering it to them. This time of year, there are always extra goodies around the office, samples at the grocery store, candy at the retail shops. Think twice before you accept every offer and decide if you really want it!
#4: Hydrate
As always, you should be drinking eight-8 oz glasses of water everyday. Be sure to fill up your water bottle and bring it with you when you’re out shopping. Try flavoring it with lemon, lime, or cucumber – it helps with digestion!
#5: Don’t Skip Meals
This is a rule anytime of year, but especially now when your schedule is more hectic. Have a light, healthy snack before attending holiday parties, to curb your appetite. You will be less tempted to over-indulge.
#6: Be Careful with Beverages
Too many alcoholic beverages can lessen your inhibitions and cause over-eating (never mind the additional calories)! Even some non-alcoholic beverages can be filled with sugar and empty-calories. Try having a glass of water in between every other beverage. Enjoy your holiday beverages on the rocks, the ice will help to dilute the drink. Soda water is a good mixer for alcoholic beverages.
#7: Eat until you are Satisfied, Not Stuffed
Don’t be afraid to enjoy your favorite holiday treats. But, do so by eating small portions and sampling everything. Don’t rush to eat, sit down, socialize and enjoy!
#8: Sleep Well & Enough
Studies have shown that people who sleep less tend to be heavier. Have a late night and an early morning? Try to catch-up on your sleep throughout the rest of the week. Your body probably needs some extra rest after a late night holiday party!
#9: Enjoy Good Friends & Family
Food doesn’t necessarily have to be the focus of the holidays. This is a time of year to spend time with friends and family, laugh, reunite, celebrate and give thanks. Enjoy the tastes of the holidays in moderation and remember what this season is all about!
#10: Keep Perspective
It’s OK to eat too much once in awhile (or even for one whole day). It’s not going to make or break your healthy lifestyle, nor will it make you gain weight! It takes several days of overeating to gain weight. If you over-indulge at a holiday party, put it behind you and resume with your regular eating patterns the next day.
Enjoy the holidays with your friends and family. Incorporate some healthy meals, make time for activity and stay hydrated. By implementing a few simple tips, you CAN stay healthy this holiday season!