So the holidays are in full swing now and I am hoping you are not stressing out but rather enjoying this special time of year with friends and family! As the gatherings continue I hope to inspire you to think ahead and stay on track with your fitness goals without depriving yourself of partaking in the fun, food and drink!
Here are my top tips to keeping it in balance.
#1 Start your day with exercise! Even if it's only 15 minutes of burst training, it will help stabilize your blood sugar and hunger. Exercise also helps with stress and of course burns calories. Starting your day with exercise also motivates you to eat healthy. It really sets you up for success.
#2. Stay hydrated! Drink water throughout the day. Make sure you are drinking at least 64 oz. of water. This will keep you from overeating and misinterpreting hunger for thirst.
#3. Re-gift boxes of cookies or candies to a neighbor or food shelter.
#4. Don't show up to parties starving! Eat an apple or a cup of broth before you go.
#5. Use small plates and start filling up on veggies and fruits first.
#6. Limit alcohol to 1 or 2 drinks and hydrate with a cup of water between drinks.
#7. Enjoy your dessert. Eat it slowly so that you can really savor the taste and texture. After 3 bites, put it down and walk away.
#8. Remember the real reason for the season, you are there to spend time with friends and family so focus on that and not the food!
Wishing you all a healthy and happy holiday and remember you don't want to start the New Year with 10 extra pounds!