Courtesy of Oxygen and Iron Personal Training Studio

Worried about gaining weight during the holidays? You are not alone. Did you know that the average American gains 7 to 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Years?  And since losing weight can be difficult, these few pounds are likely to accumulate over the years.  The holidays are the toughest time to maintain healthy eating habits, but, you can take control of your body by sticking to these simple rules:

• Eat 5 or 6 meals a day instead of 3. Frequent eating helps control blood sugar and curb your appetite.

• Eat a light meal before a big event. You will be more likely to control your intake if you are not extremely hungry before you go.
• Eat slowly. This will give your brain time to signal to your body when it’s full.
• Choose more fruits and vegetables on the buffet table. The fiber in these foods will fill you up faster than chips, dips and sweets.
• Remember to use small amounts of gravies and sauces. The calories in these can add up quickly.
• Fill your plate with small portions of the special holiday items and skip the ones you can get every day.
• Share your dessert with someone else. This way you can have your cake and eat it too.
• Increase your exercise during the holiday season to compensate for the extra calories you will be consuming.
• Try short fat blasting interval style exercises to increase metabolism and save you time as well.
• Prioritize your exercise routine – make it as important as a doctor’s or business appointment. .
• Holidays are days: Yes, days. Not weeks, not months, but days. Treat them that way. Enjoy yourself on the particular holiday, but then go right back to your normal healthy eating plan.
Finally, remember that moderation is the key to calorie control. You can still enjoy the holiday season while maintaining healthy habits in all aspects of your life. Commit or quit!

Healthy Holidays from Oxygen and Iron Personal Training Studio.
www.oxygenandiron.com
208 Heath’s Way Road, Midlothian VA, 23114 (804) 423-1375