Can You Avoid Thanksgiving Weight Gain?
By Alex Baran, Project Weight Loss Staff Writer November 25, 2009
All the Thanksgiving goodies can turn your weight loss program into a fiasco. Don't let Thanksgiving Day wreck your weight loss goals.
I’ll share with you a few tips for avoiding that. Nobody says you can’t feast on the food; you will just have to split the usual 3,500 calorie meal plan with a more reasonable indulgence. How do you prepare for this special day? Pick a tight-fitting outfit. If you eat too much it becomes uncomfortable, so watch your portions size! Also, before the big feast, have a small healthful meal including lots of fiber. It should keep you feel full until dinner. Don’t forget about your daily exercise regime - Thanksgiving Day may be special, but it doesn’t mean you can cheat on burning calories. I’m sure you’re not the only one who’s dieting - buddy up with other dieters. Temptation to overeat can be stopped with the help of a food journal; write down everything you eat in it. Old traditions are not pleasing your weight loss program? Well, new generations need new healthier habits. All you have to do is start new ones: play something in the morning, take a bike ride, or just go for a walk. Are you ready? Go! Go! Go! Split high-calorie meals in smaller portions. If you know the menu, save the calorie intake for your favorite dish. Replace high fat appetizers with veggies and fruits. No one hurries you – eat slowly, enjoying every bite. Everyone likes dessert, huh? Dessert time? Think fast! Which one has fewer calories? Pumpkin pie is better than pecan pie and so on. A drink, anyone? If you choose alcohol drinks, at least save the calories for a glass of wine. Eggnog is full of calories and fats. Is it over yet? Drink a glass of water at the end of the meal. Take a walk after a large meal. It’s hard to lose weight during the holidays. Your goal should be to maintain your current weight. If you have doubts about your calorie intake, just exercise before and after Thanksgiving Day, so you make sure you burn the extra calories. Happy Thanksgiving! ©2009 Project Weight Loss. All rights reserved.
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