Drink Sparkling Water as Your Holiday Beverage

Studies of people who lost weight and have kept it off for years recommends eating lighter but more frequent meals to curb your appetite, boost energy levels, improve mood and even speed your metabolism. During the Holidays, never plan to "save up" calories so you eat unrestricted later on. A much better plan is to keep your hunger in check throughout the day by eating small amounts of protein chased down with a large glass of water. Nothing says you have to reach your goal weight without making mistakes along your weight loss journey. Your self-talk should be that you will succeed in losing weight by taking it one step at a time and starting with the upcoming holidays. If you slip up, get back on track with what has been working for you.

• MANAGE LIQUID CALORIES - When you arrive at a holiday function, start with a low-calorie, non-alcoholic drink like sparkling water with a slice of lime. This will help quench your thirst and satisfy feelings of hunger. As a strategy, try to alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic ones for the remainder of the evening.
• CONSUME WATER-RICH FOODS - Fresh vegetables such as celery, cucumber, iceberg lettuce, tomato and zucchini contain over 90 percent water. Moreover, vegetables are an excellent source of antioxidants, minerals and fiber to support a healthy weight.
• ADD HOLIDAY EXERCISE - If you make fitness a priority, it will provide a good excuse when you need to bow out of a less important holiday event. Moreover, you should be trying to work out or take a brisk walk more often than before the holidays to curb cravings and avoid the extra eating.
• BE PICKY BUT EAT - During the holidays, you should eat mostly whole, single-ingredient foods while avoiding foods that are highly processed. If you base your non-celebratory meals during the week on consuming lean protein and low-carb vegetables, a taste of holiday treats won't endanger your dietary plans.
• USE WILLPOWER - From obligatory work parties to seasonal family outings, you holiday calendar is likely bursting at the seams with opportunities to eat, drink and be merry. Nonetheless, plan ahead to avoid many hidden holiday culprits.
• CHALLENGE FRIENDS AND FAMILY - When attending a party with friends and family, offer to bring a sharable plate of healthy food snack options. Arriving armed with fresh veggies and a low-fat dip will ensure you have a low-calorie food option to snack on without feeling deprived.

Our seasonal holidays certainly encourage overeating, sedentary behavior and eating calorie-dense foods. This is why holiday weight gain in America results in an average adult weight gain of a little more than a pound from the middle of November to mid-January. Although it may not sound like a lot, studies indicate that few people ever lose their holiday weight. It is never easy to watch your weight with all the parties, dinners and gatherings during the winter holiday season. However, studies suggest if you survive the six-week stretch without gaining weight, your chance for post-holiday weight loss greatly improves. Holiday treats and festive foods can be almost impossible to resist. However, with the right strategy, you can put a holiday eating plan in place that will make it easier to stay on track and prevent holiday weight gain.

Metabolic Research Center has calorie-reduced versions of many Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's dishes, snacks and drinks. Visit our Recipe Section for more tips and take a healthy dish to your next party that will wow your friends and family.