Holiday Bulge

"Don't dig your grave with your knife and fork:" -English Proverb (They are so wise)

It's officially the Holiday season and maybe I am a little tardy in acknowledging this, but I know it's in full swing when I start hearing Christmas Songs playing at work (uggh). The holiday season also signifies that time of year of when people just start baking copious amounts of sweet, rich foods and handing them out like they are kittens from a litter of 50! I don't quite understand the change that sweeps over us Americans during this time of year, but everyone seems to think that it's a great idea to add a layer or two to the winter coat of your family, friends and coworkers by sharing the gift of baking and delicious dishes. Just about everyday of work for the past two weeks there has been a basket of sweets sitting in the break room for all to indulge. Thanks!

Yummy in my Tummy!

In reality, we all need to think twice before we take that next cookie or piece of chocolate fudge during this time of year. Most of us aren't getting much exercise since the days are growing shorter and the temperature is hovering around freezing. Many leading sources believe that the average adult will gain 7 to 10 lbs over the Holiday Season! WTF! The sad part is that the people that put on this weight are the ones most likely to keep it as well. They'll tell themselves that their New Year's resolution is to lose 15lbs, but will quit their diet after two weeks and retain all that lovely extra cellulite that parties in all the wrong places on our bodies.

The dreaded "Belly Fat"

I love the holidays, don't get me wrong, but I find it quite depressing that for so many of us they signify a time to overindulge and neglect our health. This shit affects the rest of your life. It won't kill you to not try every dish at your next Christmas Party or not make 10 different dishes for your Christmas dinner for 5 people! Just take it back a notch.

Here are a few tips to keep that weight down during this wonderful time of the year:

1. Weigh yourself daily. Go ahead, don't turn a blind eye on your worst fear and step on that scale. Many of us "pretend" or try to convince ourselves we are staying the same weight by avoiding the scale. If you weigh yourself daily, it will be a constant reminder to keep the weight off.

2. Be aware of what you eat throughout the day. People "forget" they had four cookies at work and then eat four more later that same day. Try to be conscious of everything you are eating.

3. Always look for opportunities to move. Talk a brisk walk during a down time when spending time with family. If you have some spare time go for a jog or the gym instead of sitting in front of the computer or TV.

4. Learn to say "No" or "I'll pass." You don't have to say "yes" to everything.

5. Eat a little before you head out to that Christmas Party or Family gathering. Hunger can undo the best intentions.

6. Clear the table when finished eating. I always find myself picking at left over food at the table just because its there.

8. Alcohol has a lot of bad calories too. Keep that in mind.

7. Most importantly, Remember that the holidays are about friends, family and being thankful for them. --NOT FOOD--

Happy Holidays Everyone and remember to pray for snow!