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7 Tips to Side Step Holiday Weight Gain

By: Cathy Brennan

Perhaps the most important factor is how you think about yourself. Try not to think of yourself as a person who is trying to lose weight, who can’t have certain things or even someone trying to avoid junk. Think of yourself as a person who eats well and makes healthy choices. Remember you are honoring your body and all the amazing things it does. Eating well is how you’re helping it to run most efficiently. Successful people do what successful people do. When you walk in to work first thing in the morning and you're faced with a plate of frosted candy-cane cookies, just recognize that healthy-eating people such as yourself just don't eat that sort of thing for breakfast; it’s like putting low test fuel in a high test car.
It also helps to be ready with a few positive thoughts to call up in case someone brings that plate of cookies right over to you. Think of what motivates you to be eating better and getting healthy to begin with. You can write these out on index cards and keep your top inspirations with you for quick reference in moments of temptation. And if someone is particularly insistent about trying to ply you with sweets or goodies, be ready with a polite way to decline. You might want to try a few out in advance, just so you're ready and skilled with the 'no, thank you,' defense. But don't say, 'I'm dieting.' That's only going to invoke sympathy and good-natured encouragement to live a little. Try saying I’m committed to eating healthy foods or no refined sugar for me thanks.
When you're faced with that big sit-down meal, plan in advance to NOT get so full that you're uncomfortable. Sure, the food is delicious, but you don't need to overeat to enjoy. Chew slowly, savor each bite, and really appreciate those special dishes. It's a much better way to enjoy them than doing the stuff-and-suffer. Start by taking small servings to begin with. If you're truly still hungry, you can go back for more. Many of us were raised to 'clean our plates,' and we feel obligated to finish whatever is served, whether or not Mom is watching. If you're full, stop.
It takes about 30 minutes for the hormones that signal you’re full to get the message from the stomach to the brain. Don't keep eating just because your brain doesn't know your tummy is done.
That 'arm's-reach' defense is useful for snacks, as well. Look for a seat further away from the bowl of chips and don't stand next to the tray of hors d'oeuvres when you're chatting at the office party. If you're somewhere that you might feel uneasy, consider wearing something with pockets so you can comfortably stand with your hands idle. Many people munch at parties just to be doing something, especially if they feel uneasy in conversation.
Some Time Tested Tips
• Offer to bring a dish, especially if you know the menu won’t have healthy options. Your diet-friendly contribution should be the largest portion on your own plate; just take small samples of other higher-fat, higher-calorie items offered.
• Use a smaller plate than usual. This allows you to fill your plate and creates the perception that you have more to eat than you really do. (This is a little easier if you are hosting the party!)
• Start by filling half your plate with low-fat vegetables or green salads with low-fat dressings. These are both healthy options and you’ll leave little room for the less nutritious options.
• Drink alcohol in moderation. Select light beers and use reduced-calorie mixers.
• Eat before the party. If you arrive ravenous, you are more likely to disregard your diet.
• Don’t be discouraged if you give in to temptation. Don’t abandon all the good work you have done so far. You can always get back to your healthy eating style for the next meal.

Article Source: http://www.healthandwellnesscentral.com

Cathy Brennan, owner and lead coach of Pathways Coaching, is a Professional Coach specializing in Menopausall Women. She thrives on helping her clients maneuver through the menopause transition and design a life that they can’t wait to greet each morning. She has been a Professional Coach for 5 years and in the health and wellness field has 25 years experience as a Registered Nurse and Holistic Health Practitioner.She has had coach training at Coachville and is a member of the ICF and IAC. Cathy lives in rural Connecticut where she enjoys gardening, yoga, reading, and hiking. Married to Tom for 20 years, they enjoy their 4 innovative, fun loving children, an adorable grandson, a sweet golden retriever, a lively bernese mountain dog and 3 very active cats. To contact her call 860-774-0006, e-mail coach@pathwayscoach.com, or go to www.pathwayscoach.com . For a free menopause assessment go to www.assessmentgenerator.com/H/cRcoachcmb1156881430.html


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