How To Avoid Gaining Weight This Holiday Season
, 8 min reading time
How To Avoid Weight Gain This Holiday Season
The Natural Alternative would like to wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!
From Halloween to New Year’s, many in the Western world engage in a series of celebrations centered around food. This isn’t surprising, as food has been integral to gatherings and festivities throughout human history. Even more solemn occasions, such as Ramadan and Yom Kippur, culminate in significant feasts.
Having grown up with various spiritual, cultural, or secular celebrations, we often associate specific days or times of the year with particular foods, aromas, and flavors that evoke feelings of warmth and joy. These associations are generally positive, helping to strengthen social and family bonds and create cherished lifelong memories.
However, if you’re working on managing your weight, the holiday season can present several food-related challenges. Halloween candy begins appearing as early as September, and from that moment, it’s hard to enter any store without being confronted by tempting displays of seasonal treats.
Once the candy is gone, pumpkin and pecan pies quickly take their place, followed closely by eggnog and gingerbread.
These indulgences are often prominently displayed at the front of stores or placed alongside the healthy foods you’re purchasing for yourself or your family. They seem to be everywhere—at coffee shops, in break rooms at work, and in neighbors’ kitchens.
Additionally, the holiday season brings other changes. Your social calendar fills up with open houses and festive parties, and friends may bring treats to share. You might find yourself spending time with family or friends who have different eating habits than you do.
If you live in a place where the weather turns cold, wet, or snowy, combined with earlier sunsets, your activity levels might decline as it becomes more challenging to go for that morning walk or make it to the gym in the dark.
Given all this, it’s no wonder that weight loss consistently ranks as the second most popular New Year’s resolution, right after saving money.
To help you navigate this period without gaining too much weight, here are some strategies to keep your goals on track during the holidays.
Say Goodbye to Candy
If you still have Halloween candy lingering in your home, it’s time to let it go! Seriously—just toss it. Those little candy bars are deceptively easy to snack on, and while they may seem harmless, each one packs 50-100 calories. This means that indulging in just a few can quickly add up to the equivalent of a solid 30-minute workout. Instead of keeping those treats around for mindless munching, free yourself from the temptation. Remember, those sweets will be back next year, so there’s no need to hold onto them now.
Create a Shopping List and Stick to It
When you head to the grocery store during the holiday season, it’s essential to have a plan. Many tempting holiday treats are placed in eye-catching displays far from the healthy items you need for your meals. To stay focused and resist impulse purchases, make a detailed shopping list before you go. Stick to your list to ensure you’re buying what you really need, minimizing the likelihood of bringing home those sugary snacks that can derail your healthy eating goals.
Enjoy Holiday Treats Mindfully
While holiday treats like eggnog may be available for weeks, that doesn’t mean you need to keep them in your fridge for long. Instead, save your indulgences for special moments, like the homemade cookies your mom bakes or that delicious pie from your coworker’s annual office party. Embrace the unique flavors of the season but practice moderation. For instance, if you love the rich combination of yams, buttery mashed potatoes, and stuffing smothered in gravy, enjoy it during the holidays but don’t feel compelled to keep leftovers around. Return to your regular eating habits on non-holiday days.
Don’t Attend Events on an Empty Stomach
Whether it’s a family gathering, a neighborhood party, or a festive lunch with friends, going hungry can be a recipe for overindulgence. Many people believe that skipping meals to save calories is a smart strategy, but this often backfires. When your blood sugar is low, you’re more likely to make poor food choices and overeat. Instead, have a healthy meal before the festivities, such as a nutritious lunch or a protein shake. This approach will help you manage your portions and make better food decisions, allowing you to enjoy the celebration without going overboard. Consider checking out some nutritious protein shake recipes to keep you satisfied.
Stay Active
During the holidays, routines can easily get disrupted due to travel, weather, or increased busyness. However, it’s crucial to keep moving as much as possible. Try to maintain your workout schedule, even if it requires some adjustments. Invite a friend or family member to join you for a walk or to participate in a yoga class instead of heading to a restaurant for lunch. If you’re traveling, look for local gyms or studios that allow drop-in guests. Not only will you get your exercise in, but you might also discover a new workout that you enjoy!
How To Manage Stress Effectively
The holiday season can be both joyous and stressful, creating a whirlwind of emotions and commitments. To navigate this time successfully, focus on managing your stress. Practice deep breathing, ensure you’re getting enough sleep, and take time for self-care. Remember to prioritize your well-being by following these tips to maintain a healthy balance during the holidays. By keeping stress in check, you’ll be better equipped to make mindful choices and enjoy the season without compromising your health goals.
There are also a few different supplements and vitamins that can help you feel your best during the holidays this year!
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce stress and improve mood. Omega-3s are also beneficial for heart health, which can be particularly important during the indulgent holiday season.
2. Vitamin D Supplements
With shorter days and less sunlight in winter, many people experience lower vitamin D levels. Supplementing with vitamin D can support immune function, mood, and overall well-being during the colder months.
3. Probiotics
Holiday meals can disrupt gut health, especially with rich foods and changes in routine. Probiotics can help maintain gut flora balance and support digestion, making them a great addition during this time.
Here are a few of our staff favorites!
4. Magnesium
This mineral can help combat holiday stress and anxiety. Magnesium supports relaxation, sleep quality, and muscle function, making it valuable during a busy and often hectic season.
5. B Vitamins
B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, support energy levels and help the body cope with stress. They can also play a role in mood regulation, which is important during the emotional ups and downs of the holidays.
6. L-Theanine
This amino acid found in green tea can promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It’s helpful for managing holiday stress and anxiety, especially during social gatherings.
7. Zinc
Zinc supports immune function, which is crucial during the holiday season when colds and flu are more prevalent. Supplementing with zinc can help bolster your defenses against seasonal illnesses.
8. Turmeric/Curcumin
Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help reduce inflammation from holiday indulgences. It may also support joint health, which can be beneficial if you’re on your feet more than usual.
9. Ashwagandha
This adaptogenic herb helps the body manage stress. Ashwagandha can improve resilience to stressors and promote a sense of calm, making it useful during busy holiday times.
We have a few ashwagandga supplements! Organic Ashwagandha, Ashwagandha Drops, and more.
10. Fiber Supplements
With many holiday meals being rich in carbs and fats, adding a fiber supplement can help with digestion and keep you feeling full. This can be particularly helpful for managing weight during festive feasting.
Need help deciding what to take this holiday season? The Natural Alternative Nutrition Center is located in Paso Robles, California! We would love for you to stop in and speak to one of our staff members! We also are available nationwide online! We carry a large selection on Organic Supplements, Natural Health Supplements, Organic Vitamins, and Herbal Supplements!
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*Always speak to a healthcare professional before starting or stopping and medication, vitamin or supplement.
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