Paige Desmond
With so many holiday meals and other seasonal goodies, it can be far too easy to overeat—or at least not eat enough of what you should.
Before you know it, Jan. 1 has arrived and the holiday weight has accumulated.
“Losing weight” is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But sticking to a diet and exercise routine, and staying balanced over the holidays, just might save the Jan. 1 reality check and allow you to enjoy all the festive fixings without the guilt.
“We get so busy that we tend to put ourselves last,” noted Jackie Lampi-Hughes, owner of Energy Fitness Centre here.
She said the fitness centre gets a mix around this time of year of people trying to get in shape to stun in holiday outfits, as well as people in January trying to work off their holiday excess.
“A lot of people are preparing for their Christmas parties,” she noted.
Josie Patrick, with Herbal Magic on Second Street East, said business remains pretty constant during the holiday season, but added people who want to change their current lifestyle will increase their customer base to start the New Year.
She agreed it can be particularly difficult for people to maintain their exercise and diet routines over Christmas.
“It is hard for most of us at any time of year, but the holidays are a challenge for the best of us,” Patrick admitted.
“Some hardships stem from lack of knowledge or our bad habits of making poor food choices. Don’t set yourself up for failure,” she warned.
“Stay away from the buffet table, walk around with something in your hands—not food, bring a veggie or fruit tray to the party.”
For Lampi-Hughes, surviving the holiday temptations is all about balance. In other words, for every action there is a necessary reaction.
“If you eat turkey, move around” to work it off, she advised. “If you drink wine, [also] drink water.”
The concept is that every indulgence should be balanced with something positive to offset the impact.
At the same time, Patrick advised not to beat yourself up over every cookie or serving of mashed potatoes with gravy.
“Be realistic about your goals throughout the holiday season and don’t sabotage yourself with guilt,” she stressed. “Remember that diets are short-term. Changing your eating patterns is a lifelong goal to a healthier you.”
Patrick said planning ahead will help you maintain—and not gain—weight.
When going out to functions, eat at home if possible. If this is not possible, have a broth soup or salad which will fill you up before the main entree.
Choose foods that are steamed, baked, and low in fats and sodium. Also try limiting the carbs and beware of fat-laden dips.
