So, I'm following up on my blog yesterday with some tips for destressing yourself during the holidays. I don't know about you, but they stress me out! Many of us become sleep deprived because of party's and family functions, we indulge in calorie-dense holiday meals and we drink way more than we should all in the name of the holidays!
Here are some ideas for making your holiday less stressful and remaining healthy through it all:
Hold Up Do not try to lose weight during the holidays. You are setting yourself up for failure. Instead, set a goal to maintain your weight. If you know you are going to a party with lots of goodies, eat a light meal before you go so that you don't graze. Make sure you drink a good 8oz glass of water prior to the party.
Alcohol Limit your alcohol drinks made with juice or soda or fancy syrups. These are full of calories. Alcohol causes inflammation, so moderation is key if you have any type of autoimmune disease. Try a calorie free non alcoholic drink to satisfy that thirst!
Physical Activity This is the time of year when families get together. If the weather permits find something that everybody can do like walking, hiking, biking or dancing.
Lower Calorie Party Foods Go easy on the fried appetizers and the cheeses. Try the raw veggies and just enough dip to taste. Instead of tasting everything, which we all do, choose several items that you just can't live without. Ask yourself....are these worth it? Mingle with the guest away from the food table.
Journal Many people eat because of stress. If you find yourself eating to cope, stop and figure out why. Keeping a journal can be an effective way to track how much you eat and how you are feeling at that moment. Make those list of all the things you need to do the following day so that you are not laying awake at night with more than sugarplums dancing in your head.
Make a Plan Last but not least, make a plan. Know what your schedule is like and what is on the menu for the day. Do something simple like add one piece of fruit to your diet each day. Drink plenty of water to not only hydrate you, but to keep you full. Don't go all day and not eat because of the big party! You will only overeat and feel bad.
Plan this holiday to be healthy and stress free! You can stay healthy and avoid gaining those few extra pounds over the holidays while still enjoying the festivities of the year!
