Drink Extra Water for Better Holiday Weight Control

No wonder so many Americans are overweight. It is definitely not easy to stay slim, especially during the winter holidays. Unlike other food-centric times of the year, the winter holidays last for six weeks or more, so accept the fact that temptations will not be going away anytime soon. Nonetheless, there is more to life than eating and even weight gain can be properly managed. Adding a brisk walk to your daily activities can help manage stress and provide some time to review of your weight control strategies. It is never a good idea to save up your calories, so you can eat whatever you want at the party or holiday dinner. You risk of overeating is less if you keep your hunger in check or even eat a healthy snack before heading out the door. So, never rely on your stomach to make smarter choices.

• DRINK EXTRA WATER - From busy schedules to celebratory cocktails, making certain your body has enough water each day becomes more necessary during the winter holidays. Luckily, it will also help combat a post-party headache by making sure you stay hydrated for start through your nightcap.
• PORTION FOOD SIZES - Portion sizes doesn't just apply to dining out or the office Christmas party, share any seasonal food gifts, even those you bake in your own kitchen. You will be spreading cheer and not your waistline.
• CONCENTRATE ON YOUR PLAN - There are numerous strategies to help you avoid overindulgence in less than healthy food options. So, concentrate on your meal, eat slowly and savor every bite to satisfy your holiday hunger.
• GET PLENTY OF SLEEP - Inadequate sleep has been linked to lower metabolism. This may be caused by alterations in your circadian rhythm, which is your biological clock that regulates many bodily functions including the release of hunger hormones.
• CONSUME WATER-RICH FOODS - Fresh fruits such as apricots, blueberries, oranges, peaches, pineapples, plums and raspberries contain over 80% water, whereas melons like cantaloupe and watermelon have some of the highest water content exceeding 90 percent by volume.
• STAY ACTIVE DURING THE HOLIDAYS - In order to burn extra calories and lose more weight, you don't necessarily have to go to the gym. Instead, try increasing your daily activity by involving your friends and family. Simple activities like walking or working around the house can help you burn more calories without participating in high-intensity exercises.

There's no reason to stick your head in the sand to hide from the winter holiday season. With just a few weight control strategies, you can avoid weight gain while enjoying friends, family and a holiday feast. If you exceed the limits of your calorie intake one day, do not allow yourself to feel like a failure. But, seek professional help in creating an effective winter holiday plan. At times you will feel forced to eat a holiday treat because someone keeps forcing it in front of you. Simply say, "No thank you. Everything was delicious but I can't eat another bite." Achieving you goal, or even coming close, will give you another reason for celebrating your holiday cheer.

Metabolic Research Center offers a variety of weight loss strategies and personalized eating plans to suit the unique needs and preferences of our clients. Stop by or call today to learn more about managing your weight and get a head start on the upcoming Winter Holidays.