Holiday Weight Gain

We get this nifty little health bulletin with our paychecks at work. I love this almost as much as I love the actual paycheck...stress the almost part of that equation. It really does offer up some good advice and suggestions though. I particularly liked the holiday weight gain segment from this week and thought it was useful enough to share. Who doesn't have a hard time avoiding a little extra pudge this time of year? If you didn't raise your hand you are either A) in denial, or B) deprived in the worst possible way. I have to laugh because I did put on a couple lb's over the holidays last year and often mention that I really need to "take off those couple of holiday pounds." I said this again the other day and it dawned on me that we are now at the holidays AGAIN. Crap. Anyways, here are the Dos and Don'ts of Holiday Weight Gain...

*Do be a choosy guest. Attend only the events that you can enjoy without pressure.
*Don't pick a party just for the food and drinks.
*Do eat a light snack before going (think apples, carrots, handful of nuts).
*Don't show up on an empty stomach or you'll be ravenous.
*Do start off with a healthy salad or light soup (I also use this tactic when eating out).
*Don't take a full slice of cake/pie. Often just a few bites will satisfy your craving.
*Do maintain your exercise routine regardless of your schedule or the weather.
*Don't let other people's requests (or bad habits) cause you to lose sight of your health goals.
*Do stay engaged in conversation. Talk more = eat less.
*Don't hang around the food table.
*Do keep healthy snacks and lunches at work.
*Don't feel obligated to try every sweet that's brought into the office.
*Do cook healthier versions of the usual holiday fare.