The holidays are often filled with lots of family, fun and food, lots of food. This extra food does not have to mean extra pounds. Holiday treats can fit into a healthy eating routine. Balance and moderation are two good things to keep in mind throughout the holidays.
Balance and Moderation Tips
To help balance the calories you consume with the calories you burn stay active and choose foods moderately.
• Stick to your regular exercise routine as much as possible
• Plan your physical activity routine in advance
• Mark your physical activity on the calendar and consider it as important as any other appointment
• Get at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity daily, more if possible
• Limit your family’s television viewing time
• Limit the number of hours your children spend playing video games
• Make a new holiday tradition of taking a brisk walk around the neighborhood to see the holiday decorations
• Grab your bike or snow shoes and head out to the nearest trails or national park
• Play some backyard contact game with children and adults before the big holiday dinner or during the football half-time
• Dance or exercise to holiday music
Physical activity can actually help you avoid or relieve the stress so common during holidays. Now more than ever, it is important to maintain a daily physical activity routine.
Tips for healthy holiday eating
• Avoid the urge to overeat and diet later
• Celebrate the holidays with family and friends and not just with the food
• Continue to limit your intake of foods high in fat or added sugar
• Do not prepare dishes high in fat or added sugar
• If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation
• If you do not drink, do not start during the holidays
Tips for enjoying the holidays a healthy way
• Prepare bowls of fresh fruits instead of candy or chocolates
• Keep in mind that calories add up quickly, especially during the holidays when we are tempted to snack more often. Choose a piece of fresh fruit for snacks
• Add a few pieces of leftover turkey to a bowl of mixed greens, cucumbers, mushroom, peppers or any other vegetables you like. Top it off with dried cranberries for an authentic holiday taste
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Online
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All health concerns should be addressed by a qualified health care professional.
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© 2007 Connie Limon All Rights Reserved
By Connie Limon
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