How to Lose Those Five Holiday Pounds Fast

We all know that the holiday season is not the greatest time to begin a new diet or exercise routine, as a matter of fact it's usually the time when many people take a break from eating healthy or going to the gym. If you already notice your jeans are getting just a tad snug, and there is more food-friendly socializing to come, here are a few ways to take off those pesky pounds and keep from gaining more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. When parking at the mall, grocery store, or local restaurant for the company party, park your car as comfortably far as you can. Walking briskly through a parking lot you will burn at least 35 calories and boost your metabolism (a very important benefit when your outing includes food and drink). Also, when you increase your heart rate, you take the edge off your appetite so you are less likely to snack or eat an appetizer before a main meal.
2. Since the nights of socializing get long, you may not be too anxious to hit the elliptical the next morning. Plan B for getting in any exercise: take the stairs at work instead of the elevator. No stairs? Take a quick walk at lunchtime. Or, if you work in an office with its own mailroom, offer to pick up everyone's mail throughout the company and drop it off for the mailroom staff. They'll love you and it's a great way to wish lots of work associates a happy holiday season.
3. Carry a bottle of water with you and drink up. We all know the value of getting enough hydration. An 8 oz. glass of water will help flush out the toxins from too much imbibing and fill you up a bit before happy hour begins.
4. Choose your snacks wisely. Whether at a friend's home or a restaurant for holiday cheer, you know all kinds of food will be passed around. Choose the shrimp cocktail over the quesadillas, or the guacamole dip instead of chips and ranch. You'll still be getting your fair share of calories, but much more healthy ones!
5. Once you're out the door in the morning, your healthy food options dwindle fast! Make sure you get a great start and have a protein packed breakfast. Have your oatmeal but add chocolate protein powder and blueberries for an extra "punch".