Try to Fill your Plate with More Salads & Fruits
Holidays are the time to enjoy with your loved ones and relish some lip-smacking food. The perfect holiday present to gift yourself is the fact that you can enjoy all this without putting on extra weight.
Generally, people gain around 0.5 to 1 kg during the holiday season. Though this weight gain is not dramatic, research proves that it tends to stick on and accumulate over the years. The relief factor here is that, these extra kilograms can be avoided with some mindful eating and a few simple, yet effective strategies.
While you are busy preparing for “the big” party or feast, never skip any meal of the day as this might result in overeating. It is especially important to eat breakfast, as studies show that people who eat their morning breakfast tend to consume fewer calories throughout the day. Add fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your everyday diet plan. These foods are high in volume, low in calories, satisfy your hunger and make you feel full.
Holiday meals are generally large, buffet-styled and include second and third helpings. While one might not eat an entire cake, most individuals make the common mistake of eating large portions of foods assumed to be healthy. There is no doubt that it is essential to include nutrient-rich foods in your diet, but remember that even these foods have calories and should be eaten only in moderation. Following this approach at the holiday dinner table helps an individual to maintain a healthful eating plan — one that can also include dessert.
Effective methods prevail to help you avoid overeating. Firstly, use a smaller plate which makes you take less portions of food. Second, start filling your plate with vegetables and salads before going for entrees and desserts. Munching on a salad before meals can help you eat fewer calories overall. Finally, eat slowly and savor every bite, and wait for at least 10 minutes to find if you really are still hungry before going back for a second serving.
Last but not the least, get some physical activity after dinner. A walk with your best buddy or play catch or a game of basketball with the kids are effective as well as fun-filled activities.
For more information on how to eat healthfully during holidays or to plan your holiday-healthy diet plan, contact a registered dietitian nutritionist at www.firsteatright.com.