Thursday, December 10, 2009

Happy Holidays, Without the Extra Pounds


From now until New Year's, it's a season of eating, drinking and, well, more eating and drinking. And worrying about how all those extra calories will translate into extra stomach fat the next time you dare to step on the scale.


Well relax. It doesn't have to be another holiday of nail biting between nibbling. All you need is the proper attitude and proven strategies that work to keep your calories-in, calories-out equation balanced.


Anyone who's fought with the scale over the holidays knows the basic tricks: Drink water or eat an apple before heading out to a party. But other strategies and perspectives may be new to you.


The holiday season is not the best time of year for weight loss. Focus instead on maintaining a healthy weight, not on losing. Keep that focus when you're faced with a huge buffet or Mom's homemade cooking. Don't deprive yourself, but don't give free rein to your gastronomic impulses, either.


Remember the "calories-out" part of the equation. Always look for opportunities to move. Make sure getting some daily physical activity during the holidays remains a priority. It can be challenging with shorter days and hectic schedules to keep physical activity on the calendar, but now is not the time to go sedentary.


If you have young kids, you can build physical activity into your day by suggesting a walk to the park or a snowman-building contest or other winter fun. Or you might buddy up with a co-worker and hit the health club or a walking path at least three times a week, after work or during lunch. Good luck all!

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