Water Rich Foods Help Fill You Up and Keep You Hydrated

I suppose you could have a holiday without all the food, but the Holiday Season in America is filled with a bounty of calorie-rich temptations. Nonetheless, if you are serious about losing weight next year, then you should consider starting your journey now by making a commitment to avoid further weight gain. Since the average annual weight gain during adulthood is one to two pounds, much of midlife weight gain can be attributed to overeating during the holidays. Moreover, many people begin packing on the extra pounds early in life. A problem commonly experienced during any holiday season is the likelihood of unhealthy snacks and other goodies, such as cookies and candy, are more likely to be within hands reach. In your home, this can be solved by keeping them out of sight but it is more difficult to avoid situations in the workplace or at a party.

• 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.
• AVOID LIQUID CALORIES - Holiday parties may be the only time of year that you can truly loosen up with co-workers over a festive holiday brew. While it is true that alcohol makes you drowsy, it also diminishes the quality of your sleep and can make an existing sleep disorder worse. Moreover, holiday drinks are often filled with hidden calories, so drink wisely.
• AVOID ADDED SUGARS - Avoiding sugar does not only mean to avoid refined white sugar but also foods that are high in added sugars. Processed foods and baked goods advertised as fat-free or high in fiber can contain huge amounts of sugar. Also, watch for hidden sugar in restaurant foods like Asian fare.
• PICK A HOLIDAY EXERCISE - If you know that you are going to overeat, there are things you can do to limit the negative impact of eating behaviors. For example, if you exercise routinely, the keep your normal workout routine throughout the holidays. If you don't train regularly, try to be more active every day that you choose to overeat.
• ENGAGE WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY - Suggest holiday activities that do not rely on food. Invite a few family members or friends to take a stroll around the neighborhood to see the outdoor decorations. A non-shopping trip to the mall can provide a long distracted walk to view the seasonal decorations.
• STAY WELL RESTED - Going out more and staying up later are common sleep demons that tend to surface over the winter holidays. Unfortunately, it is not the time of year to cut back on sleep. Sleep loss can cause your body to crave high-fat and sugar-laden foods highlighted by mindless eating behaviors.

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. At the end of the Holiday Season, the pleasurable activities you've indulged in are unlikely to be a problem for the long term. If don't continue to overindulge and get back to your normal eating routine, you can lose the extra weight in matter of weeks. You can always start new traditions for celebrating the winter holidays. For example, treat your friends and family to a delicious potluck Thanksgiving or Christmas meal where everyone brings a traditional holiday dish prepared in their kitchen using healthier options.

A trip to your local Farmers Market is a great way to start your winter holidays. Then, visit Metabolic Research Center online for delicious recipes to create weight friendly dishes using your fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables.