Have You Ever Gained 10 Pounds Over the Winter Holidays?

Although many of us may have felt like it, recent studies now show that an American adult has an average weight gain during the holiday season of just one pound. Unfortunately, it might takes months, if ever, to shed the unwanted weight. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the best way to take the pressure off losing the extra pounds gained during the winter holidays is to eat mindfully for about six weeks and take a walk after your evening meal. It is true that you will be in high risk situations during the holidays where you are offered tempting foods because, let's face facts, that is part of the winter holiday season. Although it is okay to overindulge at Thanksgiving, you have to avoid going overboard for the six weeks. Although not eating more than one typically would during this time of the year is a bit more of a challenge, it is not impossible.

• PORTION FOOD SIZES - While having a small portion of a calorie-dense holiday dish may be in your eating plan, start by filling your stomach with lower-calorie, nutrient-dense offerings. Nonetheless, don't ignore serving sizes. It is easy to overindulge eating healthy foods during the holidays, too.
• FOCUS ON EACH MEAL - Put yourself in charge of your party choices. If you bring a appetizer or dessert that you prepared, you will have a healthy option that will satisfy your stomach without adding empty calories. Moreover, be conscious of the liquid calories that abound.
• DRINK MORE WATER - Especially during the holidays, drink a glass of water before reaching for more food. You may actually be thirsty and not hungry. Moreover, you will feel fuller and your body will be better hydrated, so it is a win-win solution when you put water first.
• ADD A HOLIDAY EXERCISE - According to a study published in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, women who exercised in the morning moved more the rest of the day and had less of a response to pictures of tempting food throughout the day.
• BE METICULOUS BUT EAT - Every time you eat a meal, incorporate some fresh plant foods. Start your day with spinach omelet, have a salad for lunch and add at least one vegetable to your dinner meal. The extra fiber will keep you full with fewer calories consumed.
• AVOID LIQUID CALORIES - A popular source for empty calories during the winter holidays are the numerous festive drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. These can be loaded with hidden calories and may disrupt a good night's sleep.
• EAT WATER-RICH FOODS - Whether you making finger foods or a full meal, don't forget to prepare fruits and vegetables in ways that highlight natural flavors by adding healthy seasonal herbs and spices. Water-rich foods will keep you feeling full and well hydrated during this stressful time of year.

The best advice for anyone on a weight loss journey is to adjust your mindset and attend all of your holiday events without the crappy attitude that you're missing out on everything. You're not; so enjoy building healthy holiday memories with family and friends. Whether you sitting at the family table or catching up with friends after work, the winter holidays are filled with tempting food options. If you fail to plan ahead, it can be difficult to keep from overdoing it when attending a holiday meal or party. If you keep yourself in a good place mentally, you are more likely to succeed at your weight loss goals. Moreover, a couple of holiday meals should not ruin all the hard work you've invested.

Visit the online Recipes Section of the Metabolic Research Center website for a collection of favorite meals, snacks and treats to help you celebrate the holiday season without breaking the bank. These thrifty recipes can be prepared in your home to save money while creating a special meal that no one will forget. These thrifty recipes can be prepared in your home to save money while creating a special meal that no one will forget.