Preparing for a Healthy Holiday

Preparing for a Healthy Holiday

Thanksgiving is upon us. For most American households, that means turkey, stuffing, gray, mashed potatos, and pumpkin pie...all in copious amounts. 

And leftovers. Lots and lots of leftovers.

And napping on the couch. 

And more leftovers.

Add to that the tendency to stay inside during colder weather and it's not surprise that our jeans start to fit a little tighter this time of year.

Let's make a #YearEndResolution to avoid that weight gain this year.

Can you commit to these 3 things?

1. Drink more water, fewer sugary drinks and alcohol. According to WebMD, you should drink about an ounce of water for every pound you weigh (WebMD, 2015).
2. Load up on the veggies. Daily serving recommendations vary, but your body will benefit from more fruits and veggies (not the processed kind). And the more veggies on your plate, the less of the high-calorie/low-nutrition foods you'll eat.
3. Take a brisk 30 minute walk each day. Do it first thing in the morning, over lunch, or after dinner. Whatever fits your schedule, but just get it in. Can't spare 30 minutes? Then just do 20, 10, even 5. Just move!
4. Do a Turkey Trot! Sign up for an organized race that you and your family can run/walk together or just do three miles in your own neighborhood. 
5. Practice gratitude. I know. It doesn't seem to have much to do with health and fitness. But really, it does. The more we practice gratitude, the less we stress about the small stuff and the happier we are. Lower stress and increased happiness are as key to health and fitness as nutrition and exercise. So, go ahead and count your blessings each morning and each night.

References

WebMD. (2015). Water and your diet: Staying slim and regular with H2O. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/diet/water-for-weight-loss-diet?page=2.