Have you heard those reports that say you are likely to gain as much as 10 pounds during the holiday season? This doesn’t have to happen to you. Let’s do the math and review some holiday weight control tips.
One pound of fat is about 3,500 calories. This means that to gain a pound a week, you would have to consume 3,500 more calories than you burn off in one week. If you add those high-fat traditional holiday foods to your regular diet, gaining those extra pounds may not be as far fetched as it seems.
It is true that holiday weight gain may seem inevitable for those of us who can’t resist temptations at the office and at holiday gatherings, or while baking special treats at home. Regardless of the news reports, however, actual weight gain is far less among most Americans, averaging about one pound during the holiday season.
This holiday season, try the following tips to help you cut the calories from your holiday celebrations:
Minimize the fat
* Use skim or 1 percent instead of whole milk, low-fat sour cream, or low-fat cheese.
* Trim visible fat from meats and remove the skin from poultry before cooking.
* Saute, steam, or grill meats, fish and vegetables.
* Reduce oils in cooking.
* Experiment using applesauce or prunes in place of fats in cakes and brownies.
* Use only egg whites when eggs are called for.
Cut back on the carbs
* Reduce the sugar and add some vanilla or cinnamon to enhance flavor of baked goods.
* Use sugar substitutes like Splenda, which works well in cooking.
* Avoid sugary alcoholic drinks and replace them with sugar-free options.
Plan ahead for holiday parties
* Don’t arrive at the party hungry.
* Limit your portions.
* Start the buffet line by loading your plate with low-calorie veggies and fruit.
* Go back for seconds only if you are still hungry.
* Send leftovers home with family and friends.
* Exercise throughout the season and before parties to keep you in a healthy mindset. Take a walk after meals or add on extra sessions at the gym.
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