Avoiding Weight
Gain During the Holidays

By Alisha Lewis, M.S., LPC, NCC
Professional Counselor
Pathways Professional Counseling,
A Family Ministry of Alabama Baptist Children's Homes 

The average American gains seven pounds during the holidays from Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Day. Turkey and all of the trimmings, eggnog, cookies and cakes are all part of the tradition that leads to weight gain.

It’s easy to gain a pound or two during the holiday season. Family gatherings, Christmas parties at work, and other festivities have food temptations and overindulgment written all over them. How do you prevent feeling stuffed and regretting it later?

Here are some strategies on how to avoid weight gain during the holidays:
1.) Create a plan ahead of time.
2.) Don’t put your fitness goals on hold until the New Year.
3.) On the day of a party, be sure to eat regularly all day long. Don’t use the "starve and binge" approach.
4.) Schedule your workouts.
5.) At a party, start by eating the healthy offerings.
6.) Commit to 10 minutes of exercise a day if you do not have time for your complete workout.
7.) Control portions.
8.) At a party, stay away from the food table. Mingle and socialize.
9.) Drink plenty of water.
10.) Stick to a regular routine with sleep and exercise.
11.) Invite the help of a friend who will hold you accountable to rest and exercise.

Moderation is the key to being successful.

Email Alisha Lewis with your comments or questions.