Stephanie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and founder of Stephanie Lee Nutrition. Originally from NE Wisconsin, she started out as a licensed cosmetologist. She then went on to graduate with a B.S. in Human Biology, emphasis in Nutrition and Dietetics and completed 1200 hours of clinical experience through Priority Nutrition Care Distance Dietetic Internship. She uses her passion for nutrition and wellness as a tool to help women feel their best inside and out.
Every. Single. Year. I see people stressing during the holidays. We stress over money. Stress about the gifts we NEED to buy. We lose our cool and mental sanity. And more often than not, I see people freak out about holiday weight gain.
We give ourselves anxiety about all these things instead of remembering the reason for the season. Let’s keep things simple. Simple tips, simple strategies, simple hacks to fight off holiday weight gain (while still enjoying our life). So let’s get to my 6 Holiday Weight Gain Fighting Tips!
SAVOR THE FLAVOR
This is an oldie but a goodie. By ‘savor the flavor,’ I mean enjoying every aspect of food. It’s no secret that we often link our most pleasurable moments to food. Often our best memories had food involved. Holiday parties with your Grandma’s famous chocolate chip cookies. Celebrating your new job at your favorite restaurant. Or maybe staying in on date-night, to try your hand on a new recipe with your hubby.
Use your senses to really live in the moment with your food. Be mindful of all the food before you has to offer. Smell its aroma. Appreciate its presentation. Taste the different flavors. Feel and enjoy its texture. Hear its sizzle. Be present and enjoy all the experiences associated with the food before you. The more you truly indulge in all your food has to offer, the less we often need to satisfy us. So eat the dang cookie, but enjoy every last bite.
A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING
It’s obvious. We all love the food. For many, the holidays become food overload. Our senses become overwhelmed with all the options to choose from. With so many choices, it’s hard to keep our plate in check. Are your eyes bigger than your stomach? It’s happened to me before!
Of course you want to taste that tenderloin, and those cocktail shrimp, and you probably even want a few of those cut-out, sugar cookies. Come on. Why wouldn’t you? My secret – grab yourself a small plate. Take note of all the options and fill it with tiny portions. Only grab the items that are truly appealing. Enjoy the rich foods without that pesky food coma!
DON’T SKIMP ON BREAKFAST
Too often I see people skipping meals as a means to avoid the holiday weight gain. The rationale that skipping breakfast and lunch will “save calories” for later is garbage. Sure, maybe you’ll save up some calories. Only until it backfires. By the time the party starts, you may feel ravish with hunger. When these feelings overcome us, it’s hard to say no to almost anything. You may even munch on food you don’t even like. Aim for a lighter, but balanced breakfast and lunch with plenty of protein and fiber to keep you full. My go-to is an egg omelet with all the veggies.
STAY HYDRATED
Sound simple right? But the holidays can get hectic. Before we know it, the day is half over and we’ve hardly had anything but our morning coffee. Staying hydrated is often the last thing on our mind. Try to keep a large bottle of water at your side when getting ready. Keeping water on you is an easy reminder to take a sip and stay hydrated. Getting enough fluids in throughout the day will help maintain your energy, control your appetite, and keep you alert.
HAVE A SIP
When it comes to holiday cocktails, it’s tough to turn them down. Just like food, cocktails are an experience. Whether you are opting for eggnog, a cranberry mule or a mulled wine, make sure to choose a cocktail you’ll truly enjoy. Similarly to “Savor the Flavor,” take time to enjoy your favorite drink. Make sure to savor every last sip. Take it all in!
MOVE YOUR BODY
Move your body in a way that feels good to you. If you know you’ll be lounging with your feet up for the evening ahead, take some time to move during the day. It could be going for a quick family walk after breakfast. Maybe you want to indulge in a quick yoga sesh before the madness begins. Don’t exercise because you have to “burn off” your dinner. Exercise because it makes you feel good!
Cheers to a happy healthy season with these 6 Holiday Weight Gain Fighting Tips. Wishing your and your family many blessings over the holidays! Remember not to stress and enjoy all the wonderful things the holidays have to offer.
