TIPS TO AVOID WEIGHT GAIN

While losing weight year round requires focus and discipline it is almost impossible to see the pounds go away during the holidays. In fact, in the span of 6 or so weeks the average weight gain is about 11 pounds. Ask any one who is trying to make a fitness/health LIFESTYLE change and most likely they will, however, during the holidays the stress of not only losing weight but not gaining weight is almost impossible. While I personally have kept off 140 pounds for over 30 years, even I feel and see the temptation every day. Here are five tips that have not only helped me but have helped my clients to get through the holidays without gaining weight.

1.       MOVE, MOVE AND MOVE I cannot say it enough times that exercising should be a part of anyone’s daily routine and that during the holidays that should not change... Exercise will not only help to burn calories but more importantly it will help with sleep and stress. Stress is usually at an all time high during the holidays, especially for women, a workout 3 times a week will not only make you look good but you will feel so much better.

2.       Drinking- during the holidays usually goes along with overeating and that will a recipe for catastrophe come the New Year. Alcohol has empty calories and will pack on the pounds. Drinking things like eggnog and fancy mixed drinks are not great choices so stick with a glass of wine and the white liquors with either club diet soda or if you must a diet soda. Pick special parties or occasions and stick to the plan. 

3.       Overeating during the holidays is almost a ritual with some people. To avoid a total disaster, make sure that you are eating a good first meal of the day that is packed with vitamins and nutrients. Do not go all day without eating as you will surely give yourself permission to eat everything in sight. Try to have fruits, yogurts, eggs, turkey bacon, and whole grain cereal. You will feel better and not set yourself up for binge eating.  

4.       Binge eating is at an all time high during the holidays. Make it a point to pace you out and eat meals that have fruits and veggies in them. Have a salad that is packed with healthy foods. This will prevent that starving and binge way of life that some have during the holidays.

5.       Get back on track, if you have good intentions and still start to overeat and binge, take a deep breathe and know that tomorrow you will get back on track. Do not keep saying that I will start again in January, do it right now. If you tell yourself you can you will? You can do this, you are more powerful that any cookie, candy or cake any day of the week. I hope you have a great holiday and remember you can do this.

Debra Mazda, M. Ed,. CPT is a trainer, speaker, author, fitness instructor and creator of ShapelyGirl Fitness DVD’s., workouts that are motivating and inspirational.  Debra’s mission is to get women off the couch and moving because “fitness comes in many sizes”. Debra’s new book “EATING MY SHAME” will be published Spring 2018. Mazda’s fitness DVD’s and newsletter are available at www.debramazda.com