MAINTAINING YOUR WEIGHT OVER THE HOLIDAYS
What is one of the first things that comes to mind when you
think about the holidays? If you’re like most people, it’s the
food. Eating is an important part of the holiday season. It holds
sentimental value as a long-time tradition. A problem is that
most of the food we eat during the holidays high in fat and
calories and not much else. Many people gain a few pounds
between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. That is no surprise
when you consider how much eggnog, pecan pie, buttered rolls
and gravy we eat during this time. Here are a few tips on
enjoying the holidays and not gain those extra pounds.
Keep From Overeating at a Holiday Party
The first thing to remember is that it’s not necessary to avoid holiday festivities to
maintain your weight. Also, the holidays are not a good time to start a weight loss
program. Instead, try to maintain your weight. Plan ahead before going to parties or
dinners. Eat a healthy snack before you leave home. This may help curb your appetite.
Offer to bring food to a party or dinner. If you bring a healthy dish, you’ll be sure to have
at least one healthy food choice.
Enjoy Holiday Meals Without Feeling Guilty
1. Buy only those foods you intend to eat. Don’t stock up on holiday treats days or weeks
before the holiday and fool yourself into thinking you can avoid the temptation.
2. Give yourself permission to have festive foods on the specific holiday (Thanksgiving,
Christmas, and New Year’s). However, it is important to avoid making everyday
between Thanksgiving and New Year’s a holiday feast.
3. Eat, but don’t overeat. It’s hard to expect you to cut out all the fattening holiday foods,
so don’t try.
4. Watch the portion sizes and try to eat smaller portions of higher fat and calorie foods.
5. Eat slowly and savor the flavor of each bite. Eating slower gives your body time to
react and you are less likely to overeat. Stop eating when you are full.
6. Eat only when you are hungry. Remember, there is a lot more to a holiday than just
eating. It is a time of joy, family, fellowship, thanksgiving, celebration and love.
7. Share the holiday spirit – and your food. Save calories and double your pleasure by
sharing holiday treats with a friend.
8. Change your recipes to have less fat and more fiber when possible. Find ways to use
whole grains, and include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals.
The main thing is to be thankful, spend time with your loved ones and feel good during
and after the holidays.
UGA/COBB COUNTY EXTENSION