Tis the Season...(to gain a few pounds!)


For most of us the December holidays are hectic and busy. With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season it’s easy to forget the little things that are second nature to us the rest of the year. Like dieting, planning our meals ahead of time, exercise and making time for ourselves. With all there is to do to prepare for the holidays, sometimes it seems that there is just no time left for us.

In addition to being the busiest time of year, this is also the easiest time for putting on weight. Between holiday parties, home baked cookies, holiday specialty foods and the convenience of fast foods, it’s easy to put on 10 – 15 pounds, or more! When the holidays are over and life returns to its normal routine you may find that you have gained a few extra pounds you weren’t counting on and didn’t need. Whether you are currently on a diet or if you are happy the way you are, none of us want or need to gain extra weight.

Here are a few tips for trying to maintain your weight through the holidays:

1. Home-Baked Cookies ~ If you don’t need them – don’t bake them! I know, easier said than done. The one trick I’ve found that works for me is making cookies that I am not crazy about. I try to make cookies that don’t appeal to me, but that others enjoy. Since homemade chocolate chip cookies are my absolute favorite, I don’t make them. If you can’t avoid making your favorites, make them in small quantities, or give them away. Baking on a full stomach works the same as shopping on a full stomach! If you are full, you won’t eat as many. There are many ways to cut the fat in recipes for cookies, or other holiday specialties. There are many low-fat recipes online and Prevention has a complete selection from soup to entrees and desserts at: http://www.prevention.com/cooking/recipes

2. Holiday Shopping ~ It’s so easy to grab something while you are out shopping. The meals or snacks you get while out shopping are fast, convenient and loaded with calories and fat. Before heading out to the mall throw a snack in your purse, something you can stop and enjoy while shopping. If you will be out for the whole day, plan on stopping somewhere for lunch or dinner and try to avoid the fast food places.

The copyright of the article Tis the Season...(to gain a few pounds!) in Plus Size Women is owned by Mary Ellen Popolo. Permission to republish Tis the Season...(to gain a few pounds!) in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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