How
does a celebrity fitness coach instruct her clients on how to keep the calories
off during the holidays? Just like this:
1.
If
you are going to a holiday party do not go on an empty stomach. Eat a
small healthy and filling snack or meal before you go. Choose from lean
protein, whole grains, fruit, vegetables, or non-fat dairy or dairy
substitute. This will allow you to focus on socializing with the guests
rather than zeroing in on the food.
2.
When
given the option at a buffet always choose the salad size or smaller
plate. A full smaller plate is more satisfying than a half empty larger
plate. Since we tend to finish everything on our plate start with taking
just a few tablespoons of each dish to taste and enjoy.
3.
Indulging
in alcohol as you socialize and celebrate the holidays is customary, so plan
your strategy in advance. Wine has fewer calories than any of those
creamy or frozen mixed drinks. Alternate a glass of wine with a glass of
water topped with a slice of lemon or lime, or seltzer. Be sure to drink
plenty of water daily to stay well hydrated.
4.
Do
not simply graze your way through the holidays. Be mindful, eat three
meals a day and try not to change your schedule during this tempting
season. If you start with a filling breakfast and don’t skip lunch you
are less likely to overindulge by dinnertime. Count a holiday party or dinner
out as one of your three daily meals.
5.
When
bringing an appetizer or dessert to a party, prepare a healthy, filling, low
calorie dish that you will also enjoy. Crudités with hummus, fresh fruit
with fat-free yogurt or cubes of low-fat cheese, oatmeal raisin bites,
sugar-free Jell-O. Choose from your favorite lower fat recipes.
6.
Don’t
forget time for exercise and keep moving to burn those extra holiday calories:
Park farther away in the parking lot; take the stairs instead of the elevator;
don’t load your arms with all the grocery bags for just one trip into the
kitchen; and suggest a walk with your family after a large meal. Change
it up, try a different form of exercise to keep your enthusiasm. If you
swim try Spin or a Group Exercise class. Instead of aerobics try a weight
bearing class such as a Bodypump or Bodysculpt.
Thanks for all of these handy tips. I've lost a lot of weight over the past nine months and the holidays scare me because of all the tempting foods, candy, and desserts I have to dodge. This year I'm making low-cal dishes and exercising after our Christmas meal to combat the weight.
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