10 Tips to Avoid the Fat Bulge During the Holidays

Isn't it almost impossible to stay contentious about weight and nutrition during these holidays? What holidays you ask? New year's, Super Bowl, Easter, Passover, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Let's not even mention birthdays and anniversaries. More than half of all Americans are overweight. Attending holiday parties doesn't help our waist line!

If there is any good news, here it is. A government study has found most Americans gain about a pound over a holiday so you're not alone. The two major factors in weight gain according to the study were level of hunger and level of activity. The answer seems obvious - eat less and exercise more. We'll concentrate on these two areas.

1. If you are doing any cooking during a holiday, do not eat while you cook. This little taste can add up to some serious calories in a millisecond.

2. Drink water instead of alcohol. There is nothing but empty calories in alcohol and it will lower your will power. If you feel you have to drink, drink one and "nurse it" all night.

3. Eat only those things you really want to and use a small plate. It's amazing how a small plate will help you cut down of the amount of food you serve yourself.

4. Make a list of what you have eaten and analyze it at the end of the day. Did you really want to eat three of those chocolate chip cookies from Aunt Martha? How about that large scoop of ice cream, maybe a smaller scoop would have been better? Plan the next holiday's course of action based on the findings of this holiday's food intake.

5. Stress can cause hunger. Holidays can cause stress especially if you are in charge of anything having to do with the festivities. Take some time for you. Go get a facial or massage. Go for a nice slow walk in the park.

6. Keep the size of portions in your mind at all times. The smaller plates will help. You can load up on the salad and be stingy on the sweets. Don't be afraid to cut off a bite of a high calorie treat. If you are in charge, cut those high calorie foods into small portions. A small bite may be all you need to satisfy you.

7. Here's a neat trick. Wear one of your good looking outfits that is slightly tight. You'll think twice about that second helping since you can't let your belt out a notch.

8. Any party has lots of calorie rich tempting foods so how can I keep the pounds off? The answer may sound silly, but keep away from the food. What, how can I do that you ask? Go to the other side of the room where the food is. There will be less chance of you snacking if the food is on the other side of the room.

9. Don't arrive at the party hungry. Eat something light and healthy especially breakfast. If you go heavy with the protein at breakfast, your body will feel satisfied and content. Don't starve yourself thinking you can "pig out" at the party.

10. Keep to your schedule as much as possible. If you normally take walks, don't stop just because there's a holiday happening. If you go to the gym, go to the gym.

Enjoy all those good times with your friends and family. Glance through these 10 tips before a holiday and you'll be fine.