1. Make a calendar that includes holidays, parties, and other occasions that will tempt you or stress you.
2. Decide in advance how you’ll handle each event. Maybe plan to eat a snack beforehand, or only share a dessert with your partner.
3. Include on that calendar your workout plans– what you’re doing each day, and who you can turn to for extra accountability. Your trainer, workout buddy, even an app!
4. If you’re going on a long drive, pack healthy food so you don’t have to stop at an iffy restaurant or – gasp! – a fast-food drive-through.
5. Read the labels at the grocery store. It’s shocking how much sugar and sodium is found in packaged foods, including some things we only buy in November and December. So, search for the better options.
6. Ditch the Big Bads. That means, enjoy the pie without the whipped cream. Watch the alcohol consumption. Use low-fat versions of dairy and substitute healthy sweeteners for sugar.
7. Wait before piling on second helping. It takes our brains 10 minutes or so to understand that we’ve had enough. So, instead of springing out of your chair for another round of yumminess, wait 10 minutes and see if you really want it then.
8. Plan some physical activity before or after the Big Meal. Go for a walk around the neighborhood. Have a video workout ready. Throw the football around.
9. If you go shopping, be sure to eat something first. Then you won’t be as tempted by the mall’s food court or a barista’s high-fat concoction of calories.
10. Remember that, while food is great, the holidays are about celebrating our blessings, which include the ability to make smart choices and commit to our health.
So, enjoy moderately and think of a major holiday as just ONE SINGLE DAY on the calendar, not an excuse to give up hope for two solid months!
Hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving!