Satisfied And Healthful Eight Guidelines For Staying On Track More Than The Holidays

The holidays could be a nightmare for any individual who's trying to lose weight or is conscious of their health. It is a mine field of high sugar, high calorie snacks, drinks, and meals. We're encouraged to eat normally and eat lots! From giant, indulgent dinners to specialty coffees and treats in the mall, it appears like the odds are stacked against you this season.

But wait... You make a decision what goes in to your body, and you possess the energy to stay on track. additional reading Positive, temptation is available, but once you adhere to these ideas, you are able to indulge a bit without going overboard.

And why do you wish to avoid going overboard? Since you and I both know how you feel if you do... you feel uncomfortably complete, your mood and energy tank, you acquire weight, and you feel guilty. None of that is enjoyable or attractive! So, let's make certain that this holiday is a single exactly where you practice healthful habits so you can retain your mood & power higher, so you may indulge sensibly, and so you actually enjoy the holidays this year and feel good about yourself.

Sound good?

OK, here's how to do it:

1. Make a stash of Wholesome Food Options - preserve quick, portable snacks on hand so you always have something to pull out of the fridge any time you walk in the door starving or to toss in your purse before you head out. Good options include: raw veggies and hummus, Kashi brand (or other low sugar) granola bars, nuts, seeds & dried fruit, low sugar yogurt or cottage cheese containers, and peanut butter and an apple.

2. Fill up on Veggies & Lean Proteins - these will fill you up on fewer calories and will keep your blood sugar steady so you don't have a mood & energy crash later. A good strategy for home, restaurants, and holiday dinners is to fill your plate with half veggies, a quarter lean protein, and the remaining quarter is for your indulgences.

3. Drink Lots of Water - even slight dehydration can make us feel tired and cranky, along with giving you a headache, and making you feel hungry. Many people consume when they are actually thirsty. Dry indoor air doesn't help any either. Make sure you're sipping lots throughout the day. You know you're drinking enough if you've to pee at least every 2 hours and it is actually pale yellow.

4. Watch the sugar! - sugar is everywhere these days... from your candy cane latte to the sugar cookies your co-worker brought in, it appears like there is more sugar in the forecast than snow! Sugar gives the body a quick boost of energy but then you crash down, feeling tired, groggy, cranky, and looking for that next sugar fix to pick you back up again. It's a terrible cycle! Minimize these effects by choosing only 1 or two sugary treats per day, MAX!

5. Some is better than none - with extra commitments around the holidays (parties, shopping, etc), many people end up skipping workouts or taking a break from exercise all together. Now though, is when you need to exercise the most - to manage stress, beat the blues, and counteract all of the excess food you are eating. If you can't fit your regular routine in (or you don't have a regular routine), at least do some. Even 10 minutes a day can boost your well being and level of fitness. You could even get the full amount of recommended activity in each day by doing 10 minutes in the morning, 10 at lunch, and 10 after work - just ensure that this is 10 minutes of uninterrupted activity which is getting your heart beating faster (no, shopping doesn't count!)

6. Plan, Plan, Plan - make a list and check it twice. Planning ahead sets you up for success, reduces stress, and makes positive you're not scrambling in the last minute. List out all of your vacation parties and get-togethers, and list all of the people you need to get presents for. Mark these into your calendar and review on a daily and weekly basis. Plan your meals and exercise around your parties, and do the same for your shopping trips. Things go much more smoothly if you have a plan (and you'll be less tempted to reach for another sugar fix!)

7. Remember the Reason for the Season - for me, the holidays are about connecting with family, friends, and loved ones. When I preserve that in mind, it is actually easier to let go of stress (like attempting to find the 'perfect gift' or worrying about whether the house is clean enough, or if the dessert looks 'just right'. When I focus on what is important to me, that's when I truly really feel happy and healthful (and less stressed!)

8. Keep Present - focus in on the present moment. Live in the here and now instead of worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. Keep in the present by making use of all of your senses - really listen to the other person when you're having a conversation, notice the colours of the lights and decorations, notice the smells of the trees and baking, and really notice the taste and feel of the food you're eating. After you stay present and eat mindfully, you'll consume less food and feel more fulfilled.