How to avoid the holiday weight gain

The period of time between Thanksgiving and New Years is often a time of celebration and usually includes large amounts of food. Many people find that they gain lots of weight during this time.  This weight gain, however, doesn't need to happen. 

How can you avoid holiday weight gain?  There are many ways to still enjoy the holidays but maintain your weight. 

The first step is to be extemely mindful of what you are eating.  There is so much food available and it's important to know what you are eating and what your hunger level is.  Try to eat vegetables for appetizers.  This will fill you up without eating lots of calories.  When the main course comes around, have one serving and pick what you know you will really want.  Have small servings and eat slowly.  Don't get caught up in the conversation while you are eating.  Think about what you are eating.  The more mindful you can be, the less you will overeat. 

Holidays are family times.  Spend time with your family.  This doesn't mean that you need to sit on the couch to enjoy your family time.  Take a walk as a family.  Go outside and enjoy the fresh air together so that you aren't sitting for a long period of time.  Not only is this great for family time, but also helps you burn calories. 

Dessert is something that we all look forward to.  I always tell my patients to enjoy dessert, but again, think about what you really want to eat.  Take a little piece of dessert and share it with someone.  Or just have a small piece of dessert and enjoy it. 

Enjoy the holidays.  Make it a great family time and stay healthy by making good food choices.