This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Iowa chapter.
With the holiday season looming it can be a scary time for many, especially the ones that still want to stay on track with a healthy lifestyle. Studies have found that an average person can gain up to five pounds during the holiday season, which isn’t hard with all the tasty temptations that the season offers. Being healthy does not mean giving up cheesecake and pumpkin pie, there are many options in order for one to still have fun and not feel hungry.
- Don’t Starve Yourself—A lot of people believe that if they save themselves for the holiday meal that they will be in the clear. Actually this can lead to eating more when it comes time for the main course. Instead, eat small-portioned snacks before the meal in order to stop yourself from overeating and starvation.
- Take Yourself Away from the Snack Table—When conversation is surrounded by the snack table this can be a trouble area for many. Separate yourself from the table and you will be less likely to keep getting handfuls of food. Instead grab a plate with a few nuts, crackers, and fruit and throw it away when finished. It will make you less likely to go get more.
- Stick with Healthy Options—Some examples of good food during the holiday season includes: nuts, sweet potatoes, pumpkin pie, and green beans. Turkey is a great choice for protein; so don’t be afraid to indulge in the main course.
- Keep up with your Fitness Program—More than likely if you keep with your same fitness pattern and don’t slack off during the holiday season, you will not gain weight, you will just maintain it.
Staying healthy is a good thing, but not the most important thing about the holidays; it is a time for family and friends. Take everything into moderation and enjoy yourself during this time.