All though we try not to admit it, we know that one of our favorite holidays each year is Thanksgiving Day. We also know that it is not for our family but for the food!
The unlimited array of meat, bread, and desserts can make the most resilient workout person weak in the knees. Studies show the average person gains between 8-16 pounds from Halloween until New Year’s Day.
But have no fear. Here are some friendly reminders taught by the nutrition team at Live In Fitness weight loss camp on how to survive the Thanksgiving table and holiday season.
Remember To Exercise
It is already going to be hard to work off the calories you are already trying to lose, so don’t add to them. Keep active, even if it is just a walk in the morning.
During the holiday season, take full advantage of being out and about to work off any excess calories gained from holiday parties, sampling at the grocery store, or the Thanksgiving table this season.
Eat Breakfast
This is tempting as we were raised to skip breakfast on Thanksgiving day as children. We were told holiday eating is far better on an empty stomach! This poor teaching however encourages overeating and not maintaining portion control.
Start the day off by eating a small meal and sticking to your portions throughout the day. This will keep you satisfied and less likely to go overboard in the calories.
Slow Down
The food is there, in fact, food is everywhere. There is a strong desire to want to pig out, but please resist. Slow down, and drink water in between your bites.
Give your body time to realize that it is full. If you eat slowly, you will savor it and your body will enjoy it a lot better with fewer calories. Besides, what’s a holiday full of gas? Yikes.
Drink In Moderation
I know that there are good reasons and bad reasons during the holidays to drink. We all view drinking in a different light. But resist the urge to drink excessively.
Drinking makes you thirsty, increases your desire for other foods, and piles in 500-900 unnecessary calories per drink. A celebration drink is ok, but try to stay focused on consuming water and staying hydrated.
Remember What The Holidays Is All About
Remember the holidays and specifically Thanksgiving Day are not about food. Though it might not be about the family either, it is a time for you to reflect and be thankful for what you have and whomever you have it with.
Yes, the food is a bonus, but let it be a small amount of icing on your cake of a great life.
If you remember to observe these thoughts through the holiday season, you will not set yourself back but get closer to achieving your weight loss goals.
