Tips for staying healthy and fit this time of year

Tips for staying fit and healthy during the holidays

The holidays are a wonderful time of year; but for many people it can lead to some very unhealthy habits.  People have schedules packed with activities and often slack off on their fitness routines,  overeat, drink too much, etc. This can lead to weight gain, loss of sleep, depression, and many other ailments. Here are some great ways to keep you fit and healthy during this hectic season.

1. Make time for exercise! Even if you are unable to do the usual 30-60 minute program that you usually do try to squeeze in what you can.

·         Park 10 minutes away from the mall to get in a 20 minute walk. .

·         Do a mini workout when your cookies are in the oven. 

·         Squeeze a workout in during your lunch break and schedule workouts on your calendar just as you would for a party. If you have time to party, you have time for fitness.

·         Start a new family tradition and find new neighborhoods to walk through and look at their holiday lights. 

2. Limit your alcohol intake!
Work parties and social gatherings are definitely on the menu this season. And these parties offer variety of alcoholic beverages–everything from diet disaster eggnog (400 calories/22g fat per cup!), to high calorie specialty martinis. Alcohol adds empty calories to your diet, leads to over-indulging, and poor sleep. Here are some tips on how to keep alcohol calories in check.

•  Drink a glass of water between each alcoholic beverage. This will keep you feeling full and hydrated.
•  Opt for soda water or diet soda as a calorie-free mixer instead of juice, soda, or tonic water.
•  If drinking beer, stick with light beer. While local beers and lagers have exceptional flavor, they are higher in calories.
•  Watch out for creamy drinks made with cream, whole milk, cream-based liqueurs, or coconut milk.
•  Wine glasses are often larger than the suggested serving size of 6 ounces counting as one glass. Keep in mind your glass may contain two or two and a half servings of wine.
•  Offer to be the designated driver so you have an excuse to not drink when friends try to encourage you to drink.

3. Plan ahead for parties!

·         Never go to a party on an empty stomach! If you eat a small healthy snack before the party you will be less tempted to mindlessly munch on all of the high calorie foods.

·         Bring a healthy alternative. When you attend a party bring something healthy to share and at least you'll have one healthy option to choose from.

·         It is ok to say "no" to some of the gatherings. You don't need to attend every party. A quiet night in may be just what you need.

·         Scope out the entire buffet before you pile your plate. Check the menu and pick the healthier options. Stick to small portions and don't go back for seconds. 

4.  Make time for you! During this giving season we often give so much of ourselves that we neglect our own body and mind and end up feeling stressed, exhausted, and depressed. Try to carve out some time each day just for you, whether it be for exercise, yoga, a hot bath, or whatever helps you to relax. You will enjoy the company of friends and family much more if you are relaxed and at peace.