Holiday Weight Gain and the Obesity Epidemic
I've written about this before, but with Canadian Thanksgiving coming up this weekend, it's time for a little talk about holiday weight gain. Studies have been done on the reality of how much weight people actually gain between Thanksgiving and New Years. The GOOD news is that the average holiday weight-gain (which most people seem to believe to be around 5 lbs) is exaggerated. Most people actually gain between 1 to 2 pounds over the holiday season. The BAD news is that that weight is usually never lost again. So, while a pound or two might not feel like much right now, year after year, that weight adds up! Studies now suggest that "holiday weight gain" may be an important contributor to the rising obesity epidemic.
I'm not suggesting you turn down the pumpkin pie this weekend (blasphemy!). I'm just suggesting that you don't abandon all your healthy eating habits from now until January 1st. So, what can you do to avoid falling into the Holiday Weight Gain Trap? A few tips:
Drink plenty of water.
Move your body. Try to get out for a walk, run, bike or swim most days or do whatever type of exercise you ENJOY and make it a regular part of your life.
Watch portion sizes. I know that seems obvious, but really start paying attention to how much you put on your plate. Try taking a little less than you normally would and then see if you're still hungry. I bet you're not.
Use a smaller plate! Simple. You'll eat less.
Eat more vegetables.
It all pretty much boils down to eating mindfully. Slow down, taste your food, enjoy it, relax and listen to your what your body is telling you.
If you feel like you'd like to learn more about healthy eating and healthy weight loss, come on out for one of my Healthy Eating for Life groups. I've pushed the start dates ahead until AFTER Thanksgiving weekend! Good idea, right?
10-week sessions
Starting on Tuesday, Oct. 11th, 12 - 1PM
OR
Wednesday, Oct. 12th, 10 - 11AM
More details on under "Services".
