Another round of the holidays are upon us where temptation runs rampant and will power disappears. It stars with the sugar rush of candied apples, popcorn balls and chocolate miniature goodness during the month of October and that just begins the downward spiral to dieter's hell. What's to follow gets increasingly more alluring with turkey and trimmings, sweet potatoes covered in toasted marshmallows and of course pumpkin deserts in all their glorious forms.
It is months of special homemade treats in the workplace and cocktail parties every week.
It's difficult during ordinary times to keep your fitness goals, so how do you stick with them during the holiday season?
Eat: Don't starve yourself all day so you can binge at a holiday party. Eat a light meal before heading off. If you're not hungry when you arrive, you'll be able to taste just a couple of O'dourves without overindulging.
Variety: Be sure to balance your dinner plate with salad and vegetables, fruits and whole grains, not just calorie-rich, high fat holiday specialties. Give your body the nutrients it needs so it won't crave all the wrong choices.
Low Calorie Treats: The work place is often filled with homemade cookies, pies, cakes and candies and it's difficult to avoid. Bring a low calorie treat to work such as a cereal bar, a couple low-fat cookies or a few dark chocolate Hershey's kisses and when you're feeling the urge to indulge, eat your healthier substitute.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Often we confuse thirst for hunger leading to unnecessary calorie consumption. And with holiday festivities the alcohol pitfall is sure to follow. Drinking a glass of water between high calorie concoctions will not only keep the calorie count down, it will aid in avoiding the following day hangover.
Stay Active: Make a special effort to stay moving over the holidays. Use the stairs instead of the elevator. Take a fifteen-minute walk during your lunch hour. Throw some fun music on and dance while your cooking dinner. These small efforts will make a big difference in your waistline come the New Year.
Avoid Deprivation: Dieting doesn't have to mean deny, but instead quantity and quality control. Enjoy your favorite delights but limit them to just a few bites. Science says food tastes best in the first three bites. Give your taste buds the enjoyment of much loved flavors without charging it to your thighs.
The holidays are a special time about coming together with family and friends. Avoid obsessing about the food and enjoy the people and festivities, focus on the special moments and this season will be sure to leave you feeling guilt free and healthy.
Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2325272/keeping_fitness_goals_d...