Net Zero Gain

by Kristi Rambo

Net Zero Gain
 
Keep it simple! Just don’t gain any weight between now and New Year’s and you’ll start off ahead.
 
Have you heard that the average adult gains 5-10 pounds during the holidays? Turns out, that’s probably an exaggeration. Studies show that average holiday weight gain is actually closer to 1 pound or less. The sticking point here is that we don’t tend to lose that 1 pound we’ve gained, so the scale slowly creeps up year by year.
 
So, what should you do? Skip appetizers, desserts or drinks? Refrain from joining in on the family feast? Avoid holiday foods entirely? Probably not. Completely restricting yourself can lead to overeating and poor decisions later. Instead, make a plan, enjoy moderate amounts of the seasonal foods you love, and stay active. (Time)
 
We like these suggestions in an article by Baptist Health South Florida: eat a small, healthy snack before a holiday meal; set limits; stay away from the snack table; stick to an exercise routine; watch out for emotional eating; and get up and move around at gatherings, instead of sitting most of the time.
 
Enjoy yourself this holiday season! Have a few bites of your favorite seasonal foods to celebrate. Just listen to your body, be mindful of when you’re no longer hungry, and stay active. Maintain net zero gain and you’ll get a jump start on the new year!