Worried about overindulging this festive season? Here are some valuable tips from experts on how to avoid overeating and prevent weight gain while still enjoying the holiday festivities.
Will restrictive eating work?
It is not easy to completely avoid the special delicacies served during the holiday season. And, even if one restricts them, can they help?
According to Bonnie Taub-Dix, a registered dietitian from Long Island, a restrictive diet during holidays often leads to binge eating afterward. She recommends enjoying the uniqueness of this time of the year while being mindful of the portions.
“After counseling thousands of clients over the years, I have found that those who allow themselves to enjoy the beauty of the holidays along with all that it brings, feel the best once the New Year arrives. Restrictive dieting often leads to bingeing afterward, keeping you from being a part of the festivities and feeling guilty in the long run,” Taub-Dix told Medical Daily.
“It’s best to enjoy the uniqueness of this time of year by choosing smaller portions of your favorite foods and beverages, like eggnog. Don’t skip meals to ‘save up’ for a big dinner and have a light but valuable snack before going to parties (like Greek yogurt and fruit). Be mindful of how you’re physically feeling, and be sure to drink a tall glass of water for every alcoholic beverage you consume. It also could help to not sit right near the buffet table!” she explained.
Kelly Schmidt, a registered dietician and health coach from Columbus, Ohio, says restriction may not work for long, so the key is to be calorie aware.
“Restriction doesn’t often get us very far, but knowing what your goals are, visualizing how you want to enjoy a gathering, and being calorie-aware, can be very helpful. A small plate of some cheese, meats and almonds can QUICKLY add up to 700-1,000 calories,” Schmidt said.
“Eat mindfully and slowly and be aware of portion sizes instead of total avoidance of foods that are unique and reflective of the holiday season. Sampling instead of over-indulging in your favorite foods will keep you from feeling deprived and different than everyone else. If you are able to eat less of highly sugary foods and beverages (like drinking a glass of wine instead of a dacari) and limit those candy canes and Christmas cookies…you’ll still get to enjoy the spirit of the season without making any weight loss resolutions that usually get ditched before Valentine’s Day!” Taub-Dix added.
Stay active during holidays
Holidays should not be a reason to quit all forms of physical activity and exercise, Schmidt said. However, one should aim to keep it simple and realistic, taking every chance to stay active amid the festive indulgences.
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