6 Ways To Avoid Holiday Weight Gain

At this time of year, many people are already bracing themselves for the inevitable weight gain.

It’s a regular cycle, which involves eating way too much over the holidays, and then setting New Year’s resolutions to get into better shape.

But, why not challenge yourself to break that cycle this year, and skip the holiday weight gain?

Here are a six super simple tips that will help.

6 Ways To Beat The Holiday Weight Gain

1. Don’t skip breakfast

This is advice you’ve heard before, but it’s so often ignored.

If you think skipping breakfast will allow you extra calories later in the day for a treat, make no mistake you will end up overeating and taking in far more calories than you need.

Breakfast is fundamental in boosting your energy levels and metabolism for the day ahead. It is far too important to skip, so make this your top priority.

For maximum benefit, go for a protein based breakfast like eggs.

2. Always Carry a Water Bottle

Staying well hydrated is not only important for your health and energy levels, but it can even boost your metabolism slightly.

Drinking water before each meal and snack, will also help you to eat a little less.

I’ve recently had the chance to try out one of Good Life’s BPA free water bottles, and they are fantastic.

The amazing thing about this water bottle, is that it has a dual wall, which allows the liquid to stay hot or cold for up to 24 hours. I don’t understand how it does that, but it works, and I love it!

Getting into the habit of carrying a water bottle with you at all times makes drinking enough water so much easier.

3. Avoid Holiday Snacking

This can be difficult when you go to a party with lots of finger foods and snack trays.

Combine that with candy dishes, or home baked goods, and you can find yourself in constant arms reach of calories you could do without.

On these occasions, make sure you don’t arrive at a party famished, and try to focus mostly on the healthier options available, like raw veg, salads, nuts and fresh fruit.

Do allow a little room for a special treat, however, as completely avoiding what you love isn’t good for stickability either.

4. Chew Gum

Often when you find yourself reaching for snacks at holiday gatherings (or anywhere else, for that matter) it’s more about habit than actual need.

Chewing gum can be a good solution, as it gives you something else to do with your mouth :-)

5. Choose Meals Wisely

Throughout the holiday season, make an effort to fill up with lots of vegetables and lean meats, and cut back slightly on your carb intake.

The bulk found in these foods will help to keep hunger under control, and will give your body the nutrients it needs most, rather than filling up on empty calories.

It’s also wise to avoid taking in too many calories from drinks, particularly soft drinks and alcohol, as much as you possibly can.

6. Make Time For Exercise

A regular exercise routine is important no matter what time of year it is. So don’t let it slip just because it’s Christmas.

Try doing some form of ab workout at the very least every other day.

When you’re stuck for time, this is a quick workout, which focuses on that trouble area for most people. And, that slight muscle soreness will serve as a good reminder of your goals throughout the rest of the day.

While these are extremly basic ideas, they can easily help you keep excess weight off this holiday season.

What are your tips for avoiding holiday weight gain?