Much like the Christmas tree and the jingle bells, holiday parties are as much a part of this time of year as Santa Claus and reindeer. Although many people use this as an excuse to over indulge themselves, it doesn't have to be that way for you. Get ready, because you're about to discover the 10 best ways to eat during this holiday and actually loose weight.
10) If you are planning on eating a few foods that may not be on the health menu at your local fitness club, you may think about drinking a glass of water before you eat. Being properly hydrated will immediately cut your appetite in half and boost your energy levels.
9) Rather than starve yourself all day long to save room for every holiday treat you know you shouldn't have, why not chow down on a couple of pieces of fruit first before arriving at the party. This way you are not as hungry and you've also eaten healthy for the day so you don't have to feel guilty after the holiday gathering.
8) Eat smaller portions. Rather than going through the buffet line with a normal plate, why not take a moment and grab one of the smaller cake plates. The reduction in plate size will limit how much you can pile on and will still allow you to enjoy without feeling bloated and heavy.
7) Never miss a meal. I realize this may sound strange but it is so true. Many people think they are doing themselves a favor by skipping lunch or breakfast because they feel they are saving room for the big dinner party that night. This is so far from the truth it is not even funny. Keep your daily routine and consider a doggie bag if you are too full by party time.
6) Change the recipe. Rather than giving up the foods you love, why not make the foods you love healthy. Did you know that by shifting one ingredient for a healthier one, you can take a formally unhealthy dish and turn it into a healthy alternative?
5) Get active. Don't see this time of year as a time to rest, relax and take it easy. No, you should take the opportunity you have with your family to get in some good physical activity. Let me ask you, when is the last time you took your kids ice skating or sledding? If it doesn't snow where you are, why not take the kids to the park or on a paddle boat ride.
4) Stick to your normal workout schedule. Many times, during the holidays, we feel like there is just not enough time and the workout is easiest to skip. Don't skip it!
3) Create a plan of attack. Going to a holiday dinner or party without a plan is like going into battle without a strategy. Before you arrive, think about the types of foods that you like and decide ahead of time what one delicacy you'll delight yourself with. This way you will not feel bad about eating what you like but you will know exactly when you've gone too far.
2) Add resistance training to your day. We all know that muscle helps you burn more fat calories but many of us have not added a weight training routine to our healthy lifestyles. Now don't run out and get a fancy gym membership this year, but you can start doing a little extra. As an example, rather than getting the grocery store clerk to help you to your car with your 15 pound turkey, you might consider taking on that task yourself.
1) Take time for you to relax and meditate. This is the time that depression is at a high. Depression can lead to overeating and then more depression. Beat the blues this year by relaxing and not letting worry and frustration overtake you.
Well, now you know how to maintain your weight even while attending holiday parties. Maybe you won't do all of these tips but how much better would you feel about yourself if you could do just 3 or 4 of the ten? - 15995
10) If you are planning on eating a few foods that may not be on the health menu at your local fitness club, you may think about drinking a glass of water before you eat. Being properly hydrated will immediately cut your appetite in half and boost your energy levels.
9) Rather than starve yourself all day long to save room for every holiday treat you know you shouldn't have, why not chow down on a couple of pieces of fruit first before arriving at the party. This way you are not as hungry and you've also eaten healthy for the day so you don't have to feel guilty after the holiday gathering.
8) Eat smaller portions. Rather than going through the buffet line with a normal plate, why not take a moment and grab one of the smaller cake plates. The reduction in plate size will limit how much you can pile on and will still allow you to enjoy without feeling bloated and heavy.
7) Never miss a meal. I realize this may sound strange but it is so true. Many people think they are doing themselves a favor by skipping lunch or breakfast because they feel they are saving room for the big dinner party that night. This is so far from the truth it is not even funny. Keep your daily routine and consider a doggie bag if you are too full by party time.
6) Change the recipe. Rather than giving up the foods you love, why not make the foods you love healthy. Did you know that by shifting one ingredient for a healthier one, you can take a formally unhealthy dish and turn it into a healthy alternative?
5) Get active. Don't see this time of year as a time to rest, relax and take it easy. No, you should take the opportunity you have with your family to get in some good physical activity. Let me ask you, when is the last time you took your kids ice skating or sledding? If it doesn't snow where you are, why not take the kids to the park or on a paddle boat ride.
4) Stick to your normal workout schedule. Many times, during the holidays, we feel like there is just not enough time and the workout is easiest to skip. Don't skip it!
3) Create a plan of attack. Going to a holiday dinner or party without a plan is like going into battle without a strategy. Before you arrive, think about the types of foods that you like and decide ahead of time what one delicacy you'll delight yourself with. This way you will not feel bad about eating what you like but you will know exactly when you've gone too far.
2) Add resistance training to your day. We all know that muscle helps you burn more fat calories but many of us have not added a weight training routine to our healthy lifestyles. Now don't run out and get a fancy gym membership this year, but you can start doing a little extra. As an example, rather than getting the grocery store clerk to help you to your car with your 15 pound turkey, you might consider taking on that task yourself.
1) Take time for you to relax and meditate. This is the time that depression is at a high. Depression can lead to overeating and then more depression. Beat the blues this year by relaxing and not letting worry and frustration overtake you.
Well, now you know how to maintain your weight even while attending holiday parties. Maybe you won't do all of these tips but how much better would you feel about yourself if you could do just 3 or 4 of the ten? - 15995
About the Author:
Author Dorthy Weatherbush sees everyday famous people like Kristy Swanson of Knots Landing fame use these tips plus diet programs like Medifastto trim unwanted pounds. Take a look at Dorthy's review of the Medifast Diet by visiting the site above.
