2009-11-03
Savvy Holiday Eating
Written by: Noga Sachs
Woe is me, my waistline! Halloween leave you feeling ghoulishly guilty about your diet? Unfortunately, it’s not over yet. The series of tempting treat occasions has just started. Don’t ruin this holiday season with feelings of regret. Be festive, be merry -- but be wary and watch those indulgences! Check out these tips to put you on guard for that festive figure!
1. Don't let things get out of hand. And no, I don't mean with the egg nog. Party it up, but be careful not to let this holiday season force grandma to knit you a whole new wardrobe! Weigh and measure (waist, hip, thigh) at least once a week to give yourself a wake up call when it’s time to pull the reigns on holiday gathering goodies.
2. Build Boundaries on the Bounty. A lot of my clients tell me about that one meal of the year they won’t hold back on and I think that’s a great idea. Occasional indulgences are essential for weight maintenance, but grazing on the goodies brought in by co-workers, neighbors, well meaning friends equals extra belt notches. Eat sensible, healthy meals and save up for the real feast!
3. Stay Away from the Kitchen. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Even more difficult than controlling portions in the face of decadent delights is staving cravings when overcome by aromas. Take your plate of favorites and step away from the table (if you can) and stay clear of the kitchen!
4. Take a Step Back - Pick your favorites! Even if you didn’t particularly like it, that lick, sip, or taste can add up to pound packing. When approaching the meal or holiday party, slow down the excitement for a minute. Survey the selection and be choosy. Gather only your favorites and savor. And remember, if you don’t like it, Mom won’t scold you if you don’t finish it!
5. Slow and Steady Wins the Race. This can’t be more true when it comes to eating habits, especially when enjoying high calorie holiday foods. Give your selections a minute in your mouth so you can fully enjoy, give your body a chance to tell you you’re full, and avoid overindulging.
6. Beware Egg Nog Gut!. Don’t think that, just because you didn’t chew it, cocktails, beverages, and spirits don’t count as “eating.” Alcohol and creamy beverages in fact, have some of the greatest impact on weight gain during the holiday season for the very reason that you don’t feel full consuming them. Sip slowly and resist going back for seconds!
Noga Sachs M.S. Health & Wellness Science and Motivation
Health and Life Coach
www.nogacoach.com
@nogasachs
Photo Credit: Self.com
1. Don't let things get out of hand. And no, I don't mean with the egg nog. Party it up, but be careful not to let this holiday season force grandma to knit you a whole new wardrobe! Weigh and measure (waist, hip, thigh) at least once a week to give yourself a wake up call when it’s time to pull the reigns on holiday gathering goodies.
2. Build Boundaries on the Bounty. A lot of my clients tell me about that one meal of the year they won’t hold back on and I think that’s a great idea. Occasional indulgences are essential for weight maintenance, but grazing on the goodies brought in by co-workers, neighbors, well meaning friends equals extra belt notches. Eat sensible, healthy meals and save up for the real feast!
3. Stay Away from the Kitchen. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Even more difficult than controlling portions in the face of decadent delights is staving cravings when overcome by aromas. Take your plate of favorites and step away from the table (if you can) and stay clear of the kitchen!
4. Take a Step Back - Pick your favorites! Even if you didn’t particularly like it, that lick, sip, or taste can add up to pound packing. When approaching the meal or holiday party, slow down the excitement for a minute. Survey the selection and be choosy. Gather only your favorites and savor. And remember, if you don’t like it, Mom won’t scold you if you don’t finish it!
5. Slow and Steady Wins the Race. This can’t be more true when it comes to eating habits, especially when enjoying high calorie holiday foods. Give your selections a minute in your mouth so you can fully enjoy, give your body a chance to tell you you’re full, and avoid overindulging.
6. Beware Egg Nog Gut!. Don’t think that, just because you didn’t chew it, cocktails, beverages, and spirits don’t count as “eating.” Alcohol and creamy beverages in fact, have some of the greatest impact on weight gain during the holiday season for the very reason that you don’t feel full consuming them. Sip slowly and resist going back for seconds!
Noga Sachs M.S. Health & Wellness Science and Motivation
Health and Life Coach
www.nogacoach.com
@nogasachs
Comments
Or you can just do what I do - make disgusting food that even I don't want to eat. Done!
Thanks for the awesome tips! I needed that reminder to keep my awareness levels on track. No measuring body parts for me though, that is toooo much.
Good to keep in mind. Also helps me to come to parties *after* eating dinner :)
More tips! I need help to survive holidays with wardrobe intact..
Thats a good point about the drinks! thanks for the emotional and practical support :)
The "tasting" part is what always gets me! Great idea to save up for the faves and nix the guilt trip on not finishing. Either fat on your tushy or food in the trash-it's still waste!
Great article! You're totally right, it's very easy to forget how many drinks of something really sweet (or alcoholic) you've had, and that stuff adds up fast.
Just have lots of sex, then you won't pig out on sweets.
I vow to step sloooowly away from the food table..
Ummm so you're the best writer out there NOGA! love the creativity and motivation. keep it coming babes
Good Reminder's and just in time before we start putting those holiday habits in motion!!!
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