It isn’t uncommon to experience weight gain over the holiday season. In fact, current studies report average weight gains from 1 to 1-1/2 pounds between mid-November and early-January.  Try these 15 tips to keep you in your best health this holiday season:

1. Don’t wait for January 1st for healthy change resolutions, instead start now!
2. Get your exercise on. If you don’t already have a routine – now is the time to start.  Its ok to start slow, even just get walking 3x/week is a good start.  If you already have a routine – keep it up; don’t let the holidays derail you.
3. Watch your Hunger Scale.  Be mindful of not getting too hungry. By skipping meals and getting excessively hungry, you are more likely to make poor;
4. On the other end of the hunger scale: do allow yourself to get excessively full by over-portioning and overeating all the wonderful holiday treats.
5. Going to a holiday party or potluck? Bring a healthy option to share, set a good example – make it something healthy-delicious. Eating Well has some great ideas.
6. Watch out for Grazing.  Check it all out, choose your splurges, then make yourself a plate, enjoy, and move away from the food table.
7. Take some time to consider your splurges and choices.  Scan the buffet or menu and make thoughtful choices.  You will be less likely to overindulge or cheat yourself of favorites. 
8. Cocktails… they may be part of your holidays.  Just watch out for them, check out this post showing exercise required to “burn off” common holiday drinks.
9. WATER. Drink plenty of water to help you curb the cocktails and overeating too.
10. Load up on the veggies – leave less room on your plate for the higher calorie holiday dishes.
11. If you are going somewhere where you will have little control of your food choices, then eat a healthy meal before you go.
12. It’s ok to have a treat, just make sure it’s in moderation and worth it (something you truly enjoy).
13. SNACKS. Have a supply of healthy snacks in your car or bag for holiday shopping. If you have options planned, that will keep you out of the food court or drive-thru.
14. Participate in holiday activities with a healthy mindset: consider doing a Turkey Trot, a 5K, going dancing, taking a holiday walk with your family and/or friends – make some NEW traditions.
15. Make an appointment with one of our Registered Dietitian/Nutritionists today. We can help you with more personalized ideas, tips, and customized nutrition therapy that will lead you to a healthier you!