Drinking More Water Can Prevent False Holiday Hunger Cues

According to recent studies, avoiding holiday weight gain is an important lesson that we all need to learn. If not, we will likely have a price to pay later on. The problem with weight gain during the winter holidays is that most of the people surveyed never make a commitment to losing it. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, most people never lose the pound of weight they gain during the winter holidays, which helps explain why many men and women have mid-life weight gain during adulthood. Nonetheless, 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.

• PORTION FOOD SIZES - It is easy to fall into the trap of overeating healthy foods during the holidays. Just because the food choice is good for you, doesn't mean you can overindulge. Always beware of portion sizes when making decisions about what your eat.
• CONCENTRATE ON YOUR MEAL - Party conversation during the holidays is common but it is also natural to chow down once you've finished chatting. Try to focus on chewing your food and allow yourself to enjoy every bite rather than see how much food can consume.
• DRINK MORE WATER - Since it takes time for extra calories to convert to fat deposits, a lot of holiday weight gain can be bloat. If you drink more water during the holiday season, you can easily flush some of the extra sodium that causes bloat from your body. Moreover, drinking water helps to prevent false hunger cues.
• HOLIDAY EXERCISE - Exercise is one of the best ways to burn fat, lose weight, improve your appearance and maintain critical muscle mass while shedding pounds. Mild weight-lifting holiday exercises are among the best ways to deplete fat stores and boost metabolism.
• BE PICKY BUT EAT - A recent study indicated that people who wait for all the food to be on the table before making their initial food selections, ate about 15% less food than those who keep refilling as each plate passes by. So, being picky can be effective.
• WATCH OUT FOR 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.
• CONSUME MORE 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.

Men and women who have battle weight gain, and weight loss, for years will find the holiday season difficult when it comes to weight fluctuations. However, there's more to it than simply overeating as the time of year is stressful and sleep disturbances are common place. Celebrating and connecting with friends and family should make it easier to focus on having fun with less focus placed on food options. Whether it is a full meal or a buffet of finger foods, build your plate around a chosen protein with as many veggie options as possible. Save a small spot on corner of the same plate for a sinfully delicious treat, but never use a separate plate for dessert. Although holiday feasting does not mean you have to plump up like turkey, don't get depressed if you gained a pound or two; but stick to your commitment to lose it.

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.