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Surviving the Holidays
Tips to Stay on Track
by Patti Helsten Petrella
The Holidays are a challenge for those trying
average weight gain over the holidays is 12
pounds. Let's look at some ways to stay on
track during this tempting time of year.
Do- Have a strategy for eating less. Plan out
your meals, with a daily planner. Being
prepared if half the battle.
If you are going out of town, find a gym and
get a guest pass or find a good
running/walking path and make time exercise
everyday. Exercise a little extra on the days,
that you know you will be eating a larger meal
than normal.
If you don't have control of the menu or
cooking, plan on eating less. Better yet, bring
a dish or two that you know will be healthy.
Let your spouse, significant other or a family
member know that you are trying to lose
weight. They can help you stay on course.
Your support circle is important! Let others
assist you in achieving your goals. If you are
visiting your parents, enlist their help and you
will all eat healthier.
healthy snacks to keep your blood sugar level
and to avoid being tempted by high calorie,
high fat treats.
Below are some better choices to fill up on,
when given a choice:
1. Roast turkey-skinless turkey breast
2. Sweet potatoes are great without the butter
and sugar.
3. Cranberry relish, without extra sugar.
4. Potatoes-use evaporated skim milk instead
of cream to mash them.
5. Buy low fat eggnog instead of regular
eggnog. Go easy, though, it still has a lot of
sugar.
6. Use whole wheat rolls instead of white rolls.
7. Make low fat gravy for the potatoes and
turkey.
8. Take just a sliver or bite of dessert or, better
yet, go with fruit.
9. Drink lots of water to help fill you up.
10. Stuffing can be made with whole grain
bread and bouillon for flavor and moisture.
Make on the stove instead of in turkey.
11. Better yet, go vegetarian. It takes a lot of
the emphasis off food and your heart and
body will thank you.
If eating where you have no control, just use
utmost portion control and eat very slowly.
Give your brain time to know you are full. It
takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get
the message, so wait 15 minutes or so before
you decide on seconds.
Use creative visualization and bring up the
perfect image of yourself, when tempted by
that second helping or unhealthy dessert.
Weigh yourself and keep on track.
Focus less on food and more on fun and
celebrating with the family. Stay busy-bring a
game-take a walk with friends and
family-celebrate, but, remember, you are in control.
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