It’s the most wonderful time of year! The snow’s falling, the fireplace is sparkling and the food is plentiful. But year after year do you find yourself feeling bloated throughout the festive season? Maybe your pants are a tad bit tighter come New Years or you just don’t have the same energy level as you did going in. The average person gains about a pound between thanksgiving and New Year’s. While a pound or two doesn’t seem like a lot, if you put on just two pounds over the course of 10 years, you’ll be up 20 pounds – something experts refer to as “creeping obesity”. What if I told you that you can prance your way into the new year feeling energized AND enjoy the festive foods you love? (All while comfortably buttoning up those pants!) Here are a few of my eating habits to help avoid holiday weight gain:
- Drink a glass of water 20 minutes before your meals – it is common to confuse thirst with hunger and water helps with your satiety factor.
- Take a digestive enzyme with heavy meals – this will help relieve gas and bloating, especially with starchy meals which are abundant this time of year. (Try – Immediate relief digestive enzyme by FLORA)
- Use a smaller plate – something so simple can keep you from overeating. A smaller plate makes a smaller portion seem bigger. A larger plate tends to get filled and once it’s in front of you, you’ll be encouraged to eat more.
- Try to avoid seconds – or at least give yourself a 20 minute break before contemplating seconds. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain’s satiety signals to fully kick in. This goes for dessert too! On second thought, you might already be satisfied.
- Go for a half hour walk after dinner – this is a good way to spend time with family, the kids can burn off some energy and secretly you’ll be encouraging digestion and burning off some calories too.
- Go at least 12 hours from your last bite of the day until breakfast – that means only water! Intermittent fasting has many great health benefits including managing blood sugar levels and weight. Giving your digestive system a daily break does wonders for your metabolism. Trust me on this one.
These tips and tricks are not only to be used throughout the holiday season, they are daily practices that encourage healthy eating habits year round. Creating a healthy routine will boost energy levels, improve weight management and help you live a long and prosperous life. If you’re interested in learning more about how to optimize your health a Registered Holistic Nutrition, like myself, may be exactly what you’re looking for! Call the spa today to book a consultation.
