Avoiding Holiday
Weight-Gain Hurdles

The holidays can be the culprit for as much as 10 pounds of weight gain between November and the New Year. Holiday shopping and other seasonal activities can cut into time previously used for exercise and can impact our ability to make healthy choices for meals and snacks. You can prevent holiday weight gain by planning ahead to avoid compulsive food choices.

• At the office, avoid the pitfall of holiday baked goods left in the break room. If a small bite could lead to a return for second helpings, don't take any to begin with.
• Alcoholic beverages not only have more calories than other beverages, they can also trigger hunger by lowering blood glucose. Beware of beverages served in large glasses garnished with fruit or those cute little umbrellas. These are typically high in calories due to their juice or creamy content.
• Beware of passed appetizers . . . they can typically rack up 100 calories each! To avoid overindulging, don't go to parties hungry. Eat a small snack beforehand.
• Buffets are an invitation to overeat. There are two ways to handle them:
  • After looking at the entire buffet table, choose only 2 or 3 foods and keep the portions small. Remember, the high priced items like shrimp are at the end of the line when plates are full.
  • Take a small spoonful of everything. Choose three items and go back for a moderately sized second serving.

You can enjoy the holidays without paying for it later. Plan ahead and avoid those food temptations to prevent weight gain once the party's over!

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