The holidays are a time for celebration, going all out to make sure you enjoy yourself. You might go overboard on the food and drinks, or maybe you’ll indulge in some treats that aren’t so good for your health. Regardless of what it is that tempts you during this season, there’s no need to let it ruin your body by piling on the weight! In this article we’re going to explore how making a few small changes can help keep those holiday pounds at bay.
Make Healthy Swaps
One of the easiest ways to avoid packing on the pounds is by making healthy swaps for some of your favorite unhealthy foods. If you’re a fan of sugary drinks, swap out soda for sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea. If you love snacking on potato chips, try some roasted chickpeas or air-popped popcorn instead. There are tons of healthier alternatives to your favorite unhealthy foods, so take advantage of them and you’ll be well on your way to avoiding weight gain.
Watch Your Portions
Another key to avoiding holiday weight gain is to watch your portion sizes. When you’re indulging in a festive feast, it’s easy to overdo it and consume way more calories than you need. Try to pace yourself and only have a small portion of each dish. If you’re still hungry after finishing your first plate, go for a second but make sure it’s a smaller one this time. You’ll be glad you did when you don’t wake up the next day with a bloated stomach and extra pounds!
Fill Up On Healthy Foods
Be sure to make time for healthy foods during the holidays as well, not just the unhealthy ones. Studies have shown that people tend to eat more when they’re stressed or anxious. Which makes sense given that many people feel these emotions during the holidays. To avoid eating too much, fill up on healthy dishes full of protein and veggies. So your stomach feels full but you don’t have room left over for anything lacking in nutrition.
Get Active
If all else fails, one of the best ways to avoid gaining weight during the holidays is to get active. A little bit of exercise can go a long way when it comes to preventing weight gain. Take a brisk walk after dinner, dance around your living room to your favorite holiday tunes, or go for a light jog. Anything that gets you moving is beneficial. So try to fit in as much activity as you can during the holidays.
