Diet & Fitness

How can I make it through the holidays without tacking on those pounds?

If you can answer this one simply, definitely let me know! Seriously, for most of us, the time between October and the new year are tough. With all the candy, food, treats, beverages (the list goes on…), it can be a challenging time to say no and grab an apple instead.

If you have that willpower to avoid all those temptations, that's fantastic. But if you're like me and can’t say no to things like chocolate or yummy dishes, there are a few easy ways to make it through the holidays without feeling the guilt.

My best advice to this question during these holiday months is to try and maintain. I am not sure about you, but for most of us, dieting or weight loss is hard this time of year -- try to keep to it normal.

What I mean by that is if you are normally eating several small meals a day, exercising, drinking your water... try not to deviate from that too much. Tell yourself that this isn’t the time to change your behaviors or make additional goals -- just keep it steady.

If you can get through the holidays without adding any unnecessary pounds or changing your healthy routine from what you currently do,you have made a huge achievement!

Remember these simple tips to keep you on track in the upcoming months:

- Don’t Sway From the Norm: I know right now everything is so much more tempting, and it is holiday time. There's nothing wrong with enjoying here and there -- just be mindful and make the most of what you take in.

- Pack that Lunch: Continue to make or pack your lunch, dinner or snacks. It's much easier to stay on track when your food is ready for you (less nibbling on other stuff). If your friends or colleagues are heading out to lunch (or any meal), joining them is fun but just remember to keep an eye on what you order.

- Sweets All Around: Nothing wrong with having a taste -- keep it to a bite or two. Remember those pieces here and there add up to empty calories in your body.

- Parties, Dinners, Gatherings: Remember the easy rule of sticking to the fruit and vegetable platters (watch those dips), having the grilled items verses the fried or breaded, and keeping it all on one plate (easy way to portion it out). Always bring a dish (don’t go empty-handed) that you can enjoy and is healthy.

- Move it, Move it: Keep moving. You can kick up your workout a bit to burn some of those extra calories off (my trick), but also keep moving, talking… whatever it is to keep the focus from eating extra.

We love the holidays! Enjoy them with family and friends and focus on the important things -- good conversation, and fun and memorable times!

Have a diet question for Pam? Email askpam@ediets.com and check back to see if your question is picked! And if you missed a previous column, click here to see the archive.

Looking for a way to make weight loss easier? With personalized meal plans and fitness routines, eDiets can help! Join now and save 25%!

Labels: ask pam, dieting, holiday-weight-gain, nutrition, pam

View more: Diet & Fitness