10 Tips To Avoid Holiday Weight Gain.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, I’ve received several emails asking for tips on preventing weight gain as we indulge during this festive time. Let’s be clear that I’m NOT a nutritionist so the following weight gain tips are simply what I practice to ensure I don’t have regrets come January and have to dedicate even more time and effort in the gym. I’ve been killing it at the gym the last 7 months and trying my best to enjoy a more healthy lifestyle, so I’d hate to see so much of my hard work be undone.

The season is about FOOD and having a good time, so rather than just avoid the parties and delicious buffets you’ll encounter, keep these simple tips in the back of your mind:

1. Start your day with a little exercise! Try to make time preferably in the morning to get some exercise in. It does not have to be in the gym or on a treadmill in your basement. Go out for an early morning walk or run.. enjoy the outdoors – take a hike! You’ll be amazed at how motivated you’ll be the rest of the day.
2. I’ll skip breakfast and lunch so I won’t have that guilty feeling at dinner! Don’t starve yourself! Be sure to get you breakfast, lunch and a couple of snacks in. It could be something light – aim for lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
3. Get your protein in first! Load up on your proteins to satisfy that craving and appetite.
4. At dinner limit calorie dense foods such as gravy, butter and sauces. Pass on eggnog and sneak in as much vegetables as you can.
5. Leave the bread alone unless you prefer that over potatoes and stuffing.
6. Moderation – don’t overly sacrifice! Allow yourself small bites of things you know are not healthy.

7. Beware of booze (and COFFEE). Not only does alcohol add unnecessary calories to your diet, but it also gets you snacking and going back to pick at the dinner table.

8. Bring something of your own. Rather than try to guess what’s in every dish at the party or avoid eating altogether, bring a healthy side dish or dessert. You’ll know what’s in your dish, so indulging will not be a guilty pleasure.

9. Wait before grabbing seconds. Give yourself a bit of time so your brain can get the message that you’re full. You won’t have to deal with “why did I go back for more” feeling!

10. Sleep! The lack of sleep is directly related to cravings of high calorie / fatty  type foods.

Got a tip you’d like to share? Please leave a comment below!