12/06/2025
I love this article from our Health Educator No Bad Foods, LLC. You are in control, if you cannot resist something. It is not the end of the world. Enjoy yourself!
According to recent studies, during the holidays, on average, a person can gain 2 pounds. Doesn’t sound like much but with winter closing in and outside activities curtailed, it might take a long time to drop those 2 pounds, especially as we get older. So, I checked a few reputable health sources and put together a compilation of their recommendations, adding my own comments. Here you go:
• When faced with a buffet table, don’t pull your chair up to it. Keep the portions small and keep moving!
• Don’t save yourself for the meal. Make sure you eat a healthy breakfast and/or lunch before you head out to the holiday gathering. This way you won’t be starving when you get there and want to eat the Formica off the counter!
• Go light on the doctored-up foods – the ones with lots of sauces and gravies. Keep the plate heavy on the veggie side instead. This way you can enjoy a bit of everything while being mindful.
• Drink a lot of water during these food heavy weeks. Even mocktails have lots of calories, let alone the alcohol and soda. Stay hydrated.
• If you want to go for seconds, wait 15 minutes before you head back to the food. By waiting those few extra minutes, your body has time to do a little digesting which will help you feel fuller. If you go back too quickly, you may start feeling like a bloated tick after the extra helpings!
• During these high calorie days, weigh yourself every morning. This way you will see very quickly that you are on track and managing the season well or need to pull back a little and adjust.
• If you “fall off the wagon” food wise, resist the urge to throw your hands up, put on stretch pants and say you will take care of it after New Years. Get back on track. You will be glad you did!
