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How to Prepare Yourself for the Temptations of Holiday Overindulgance

Member
By psychonurse
User-Submitted Article
(1 Ratings)
Holiday Temptations!
Holiday Temptations!

Well, here it comes...the holiday season! It always revolves
around friends, family and food - and while all three are wonderful, it's easy to overindulge in the latter.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • a desire NOT to gain 10 pounds over the holidays!
  1. Step 1

    Plan your day. When you awake, think about all the gatherings and festivities you may be attending, and plan your eating around your functions. Resolve to eat healthfully and in moderation throughout the day, focusing on fresh, whole foods that are high in fiber and low in fat and calories. This will help to balance out any rich, high-calorie foods you may be served later. NEVER skimp on breakfast or lunch in preparation for a holiday dinner - you'll be ravenous and prone to overindulge by the time you sit down to eat.

  2. Step 2

    Be aware of the nutritional value of different foods. A plate with some lean protein, steamed broccoli, and a scoop of mashed potatoes is a relatively healthy option. But, (WHOA!) pouring gravy over the whole plate turns it into a high-fat, high-calorie meal.

  3. Step 3

    Minimize your alcohol consumption, by volunteering to be the designated driver. Stick to a glass of wine, or two,- avoid sweet mixed drinks, and even the beloved eggnog. Alcohol itself has calories, and mixing it with soda or juice adds even more.

  4. Step 4

    Portion out your foods. Limit fried or creamy appetizers, sauces, high-calorie side dishes, and desserts, and instead focus on whole foods, lean meats, and vegetables and fruits.

Tips & Warnings
  • Parties will bring out the most scrumtuous appetizers, drinks, and desserts. Indulgence is easy, but remember it's going to be a "pay now--pay later" deal. So, my belief is moderation will allow you a little taste of the goodies, without a significant weight gain.
  • When visiting dessert table,take a deep breath, count to 10 and grab something light !

Comments  

Limowreck said

Flag This Comment

on 11/3/2008 Wonderful tips. Step 1 really works for me. I always fail to account for how many places I'll be and how much food I will be expected to try. It's all about Pacing. I'll pass the alcohol info on to the man of the house. Super ways to stay fit during Christmas! *****

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