It's cold outside, and for some reason everyone feels the need to hibernate. Human nature perhaps? All you want to do it put on some cozy socks, get under a warm blanket, lay around the house and fill your belly with things like pancakes, hot chocolate, and chili. But it is possible to have that comfort and continue (or begin!) making healthy choices to help curb that winter weight-gain.
1). Drink hot tea instead of hot chocolate or Egg Nog
Adding a little milk and honey to some green or black tea will warm your belly just as much, but the antioxidants are a huge benefit, and you won't have the extra calories.
2). Eat a small meal before those holiday parties.
For some reason, when friends and family get together, they really load up on the comfort foods and sweet treats. Eating a salad, a piece of fruit, and half a turkey sandwich (on whole grain) will give you the nutrition you need, fill your belly, and make you more hesitant to reach for seconds (or thirds!) at a social gathering.
3). Substitute the ingredients of your favorite cold-weather meals.
It IS possible to make your favorite dishes healthier, without compromising the taste. Buy whole wheat pancake mix (make sure you add cinnamon, yum!), and replace ground beef with ground turkey. Shane makes an AMAZING turkey chili without adding any ketchup or sugar of any kind. (recipe coming soon!) If you're making potatoes, make it a sweet potato, and only eat half. Replace any other starchy vegetables with green leafy vegetables. (Always eat a side salad with your meals!)
4). Kick up your water intake.
Drinking the recommended amount of water (64 ounces) every day will not only hydrate you, but it will also give you energy and curb your appetite. (Did you know one of the first signs of dehydration is fatigue??)
5). Get those workouts in--early!
NOT having a gym membership is NOT an excuse... Brave the cold and go for a walk or run, make up your own workout, or find some workout videos. Getting your body moving and your heart rate up will not only burn calories, but it will also give you more energy throughout the day. Think you don't have time? THINK AGAIN. I promise you that getting that last hour of sleep will NOT give you more energy than a workout!!!
Don't let it go this month, telling yourself that you will "start next year". START TODAY! You will be MUCH happier with yourself, and you will enjoy your holidays more knowing you are making those healthy choices (and maybe even lose a few pounds!) before New Years.
Happy Holidays everyone!!!
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