Tips to Survive the Holiday Season By: Christie Griffin

The holiday season is here and many of us usually find ourselves surrounded by copious amounts of sweet treats, “carb-heavy” comfort foods, and holiday themed beverages and cocktails. During all these festivities our gym schedule may fall by the wayside. The average American can gain five or more pounds Thanksgiving until New Years, but this year can be different with these few tips to keep in mind between holiday party-hopping.

1. Exercise before the big meal! Participate in a Turkey Trot Run or an Ugly Christmas Sweater Run. Check out the websites below for holiday 5K runs in Memphis, TN.

• https://memphisturkeytrot.racesonline.com/
• https://memphisturkeytrot.racesonline.com/
• http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=111114

2. Mingle away from the buffet table. This will prevent the unconscious nibbling and grazing.

3. Offer to bring dish to party and make it a healthy one:

• Use Pumpkin puree instead of using fat or oil. This keeps baked goods moist and cuts the fat, not the flavor.
• Use Greek yogurt or hummus for dips – fill up on protein and not unhealthy fat
• Use half whole-wheat pastry and half all-purpose flour. There are 12 grams of fiber per cup and party goers won’t notice a difference.

4. Don’t skip meals in an attempt to “save up” calories for the holiday party or dinner at grandma’s. This causes you to arrive starved and more likely to over eat. Instead of skipping a meal try to eat a light snack or meal prior to arriving.

5. Sip Smart! Limit alcohol consumption to one or two drinks or instead sip on sparkling water with a splash of cranberry and a lime.

6. Avoid the holiday “sirens”. During the holiday season “limited edition” foods, flavors, and drinks are offered. Most of these treats are loaded with extra sugar, fat, and salt. We can often to succumb to temptation because these treats are only available for a short time. Instead, opt for adding cinnamon or peppermint extract to coffees. Also if you must indulge in a holiday treat, split it with a friend. Sharing is caring!

7. Above all, be realistic. Having a weight loss goal during the holiday season may be self-defeating. Instead strive to maintain your weight. This way you can have your piece of pecan pie and eat it too!

Happy Holidays!