The Holiday Fitness Rush

Yes it is that time of year; you know, candy, turkey, more sweets, cakes, pies, and thunder thighs! What's the plan this year resolutioners? If you do not have a plan for your fitness goals, this advice is gold. Keep reading. If you have a plan, good! Keep reading...... 
First I must ask, did you reach your fitness resolution last year, why or why not (feel free to leave a comment)? Secondly, I will say that these are the toughest times of the year for one seeking healthy weight. The common consensus is waiting until the holidays are over and then finally making and starting a plan. This is a good reason to eat like we have two stomachs-one side for sweets and the other for meat, sides, and drinks. I know we have been waiting all year to have those great treats like fruit cake, egg nog, green bean casserole, and my favorite, sweet potato pie. Every year my family members would employ clever tricks to get a pie for themselves. I would always put one in my car just for safe keeping. All the food you have been waiting an entire year for is in front of you and you have at most, a week to eat it. After that it's pretty much spoiled unless you reinvent the turkey with turkey salad, turkey soup, turkey sandwiches, etc. Need I say more? Game face on right. It's time to eat until we fall asleep, wake up to eat more, and pack take-home containers to have some good food later right.

Let's stop and think for a minute. Is it necessary to pack on so much unwanted weight just to try for the same fitness goal again next year because you didn't hit your target? No. Enjoy your Thanksgiving meal and Christmas meal, or whatever meal is associated with your particular yearly celebration but if you know that your goal is to lose weight starting the 1st of January, why make it harder by over-eating? Let's stop the madness people and keep the indulging down and moderation up. How? Dr. Lisa Young, nutritionist, author of "Portion Teller," the new #1 health book according to Oprah Magazine, (2005) suggests focusing on your portions as a means to controlling weight.

Here are some simple suggestions

• Get a smaller plate. Rather an 11 inch plate, use a 9 inch plate instead.
• Eat smaller portions so you can fit a little bit of everything you like on to the plate.
• Don't stack your food. If everything you like covers the small plate, that means you have reached your plate load. No need to pile food on food to make room.
• Sample desserts. When I say "get a small plate," I don't mean a small plate filled with desserts.
• Drink a glass of water before your meal. This will help digest you food and curves your appetite so you will be less likely to over-eat. 
• Take a walk with after the meal. This stimulates digestion and burns a few calories. And yes, flatulence will occur which will help to alleviate stomach cramps. 

As always, thank you for your time and for putting your health first.