Park Tudor Blogs

On average, Americans gain 1-2 lbs of weight during the holiday season and it takes 5 months to shed that weight gain. Some never lose the weight and gain year after year. Following are some tips to help you stay healthy during the holidays:

• Eat a light, high fiber snack before you go to the party to avoid overeating. High fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains.
• Right before eating, fill up first with a glass of water. Keep sipping throughout a meal or party.
• Most holiday parties include family, friends, coworkers, decorations, and entertainment. Focus on the experience and your conversation and less on the food.
• Before just digging in at the next potluck party, take a look around at your food options. Choose one or two less healthy options for your plate and fill the rest up with lighter fare, such as veggies and fruit.
• Volunteer to bring a low-calorie vegetable, fruit or whole grain dish to the holiday party.
• Keeping a glass of water in one hand makes it difficult to mindlessly reach for more food. Take a sip when you have an urge to grab for more.
• Eat your veggies first. Low in calories and high in fiber, vegetables will help fill you up, and the antioxidants will help fight disease, too.
• Don't feel obligated to eat when offered food. If you feel guilty, ask to take it home.
• Avoid hanging out around the food and beverages. Out of sight, out of mind.