Get Extra Holiday Exercise Running Errands for Others

New research from Cornell University's Food and Brand Lab studied weight patterns for 3,000 participants from the U.S., Japan and Germany. In the United States, weight tended to increase from October until about ten days after Christmas. About half the weight was lost quickly; but shedding the rest took about five months. Instead of focusing on your ultimate weight loss goals, start your journey by setting a goal to lose those first ten pounds. After all, losing some belly fat right away can provide substantial health gains and you will increase you chance of ultimate success. It is easy to procrastinate and use the Holiday Season as an excuse to postpone getting the body your want until next year. However, the best time to fulfill your weight loss goals is to start your journey now.

• BE MORE ACTIVE - Although running errands is not the same as jogging, the more active you stay the better off you will be as you work your way through the six tempting weeks of the Holidays. If possible, shovel some snow, go sledding, take a relaxing hike or hit the ice rink for some holiday skate time.
• GET PLENTY OF SLEEP - As closely as possible, stick to your normal sleep routine during the busy holiday season. Staying consistent will reinforce your sleep-wake cycle and encourage a more relaxing night's sleep even though you might have stayed up late.
• AVOID LIQUID CALORIES - Stick to calorie-free or low-calorie drinks, such as water, tea or seltzer. Alcohol not only contributes to caloric intake it can lead to poor judgments about what you eat and drink as the party goes on. A healthy option is to alternate between a wine seltzer and water with a slice of lime. Focus on the conversations and you'll feel better about yourself tomorrow.
• EAT WATER-RICH FOODS - Grocery stores can be traps and during the winter holiday season tend to be over crowded. Avoid the urge to simply grab attractive food items and go. Many processed foods are loaded with added sugars, fat and salt. Shop the perimeter for fresh, water-rich foods instead.
• LEARN TO USE WILLPOWER - Your willpower can use a boost this time of year, so be proactive and help control the risk for seasonal temptations. It is a good idea to clear your personal spaces of tempting holiday goodies. At the office, keep some healthy protein snacks close by. At home, either bake in small amounts for you or share your treats with family and friends.

Since restricting every tempting bite during the winter holiday season is not a sustainable weight loss strategy, consider a smarter approach that doesn't involve throwing in the towel. Put your goals for weight loss on hold and be happy with successful weight control over the holidays. A conscious indulgence during the holidays is a planned exception that allows you to have a seasonal treat as part of being an empowered eater. Nonetheless, you have to make certain you only indulge this way and with few deviations. A simple holiday tip for avoiding temptations is to shop around the perimeter of the food store. That's where they keep the fresh, whole foods, so you start with healthier ingredients.

Metabolic Research Center has lightened-up versions of your favorite holiday foods, including desserts and treats. Our recipes are easy to follow and simple to prepare and are guaranteed to help keep you on track throughout any holiday season.