Eat Well During the Holidays
The holidays offer many
opportunities to enjoy special, once-a-year foods and treats. But if you’re
trying to maintain a healthy weight, navigating the sometimes calorie-laden
season may pose a challenge.
Enjoy your food, but take
smaller portions. Take a small portion of favorite foods that may be high in calories or
salt and enjoy each bite.
One way to reduce
portion sizes is by using a smaller plate, bowl or glass, and serving spoon, It makes smaller portion
sizes seem larger.
Research shows that the typical holiday weight gain is not as large as
popularly believed, probably averaging around one pound.
There is evidence that people who are already overweight, or who have
lost a good deal of weight in the past, may be more susceptible to dietary
changes over the holidays when food is more readily available.
Busy holiday schedules may also contribute to weight gain by making it
more difficult to find time for regular exercise and physical activity.
If a holiday buffet or potluck is in your future, be aware that when a greater variety
of foods is offered, people tend to eat more. The potluck or the buffet with
many high-calorie foods may set the stage to take in extra calories.
Take a mindful approach to eating during
the holidays and throughout the year. Think before you eat…is it worth the calories? Stop
eating when you are satisfied, not full.
Make time for healthy activity in spite of a
hectic holiday schedule. Bundle up for a walk with a friend, go dancing or ice
skating or treat the dog to an extra trip around the block.
Source: Beth Olson, Beth Olson, UW-Extension Nutritional
Sciences Specialist and Gayle Coleman, UW-Extension Nutrition Specialist
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