The holidays are just around the corner. This means tons of turkey, mounds of mashed potatoes and second helpings galore. It's also a time for family get-togethers and celebration.
One thing the holidays always seem to bring is added pounds, but this doesn't have to be the case. Even festive treats can fit into a healthy eating plan. The important thing to remember is balance and moderation.
Below are some tips on how you can avoid holiday weight gain and still enjoy this holiday season.
Stay Active!
You will stay healthy and probably less stressed if you include activity into your daily routine this holiday season. Why?
Regular physical activity helps people maintain a healthy body weight, reduces feelings of depression and anxiety, and promotes psychological well-being.
Some suggestions for including activity in the cold weather:
Keep a list of regular activities you can do regardless of how much snow is on the ground (examples include indoor cycling, aerobic dance, calisthenics, stair climbing, and mall walking)
Try a new outdoor winter sport such as cross country skiing, down hill skiing, ice skating and even shoveling snow, and plan your physical activity just as you would the rest of your holiday schedule. Mark it on your calendar and think of it as any other appointment.
Try to get at least 30 minutes daily of moderate intensity physical activity, and cut back on TV. Instead of congregating around the TV after the big holiday meal, take a brisk walk around the neighborhood to see holiday decorations.
Holiday Nutrition
Most holiday celebrations involve food which may lack good nutrition. Often it is loaded with fat, sugar and calories. To help you watch your waistline during the festivities, follow these tips:
Stay clear of the buffet table. Move to the other side of the room. The buffet table is a big temptation and can lead to overeating. Remember to chat with friends and family and not focus on the food.
Don't overindulge. Watch portion sizes and select only one or two of your favorites. It's ok to say no to seconds.
Try to limit your intake of foods high in fat or added sugar. Have a bowl of fruit instead of a plate of cookies. Go easy on gravy and watch the sauces on side dishes. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
A new take on leftover turkey: try it over mixed greens with any other fresh vegetables you like and sprinkle with dried cranberries and low fat salad dressing.
Fill up on vegetables and take less stuffing. Flavor veggies with spices and herbs instead of cream sauces and butter.
Instead of rich desserts, try some healthy alternatives.
Mix applesauce with mincemeat to reduce the amount of fat and serve with frozen low fat or fat free yogurt.
Angel food cake contains little or no fat and can make a great dessert
when served with fruits such as strawberries, raspberries or a fresh fruit salad.
If making pumpkin pie - use evaporated skim milk and top with low fat or fat free ice cream or frozen yogurt. Try the recipe included here for another take on a low fat favorite.
Bottom Line
The holidays are a special time, meant for family, friends and celebration. Don't restrict yourself too much - remember it's all about balance. Rather than deny yourself a slice of pie, have a smaller portion and savor every mouthful. You'll feel more satisfied and won't feel deprived. If you don't allow yourself any treats, you are setting yourself up for overindulging and added stress. Enjoy yourself and stay healthy. Balance, moderation and physical activity are the key to a healthy, happy season.
Easy No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie
Prep Time: 10 MinutesReady in: 2 Hours 10 Minutes
Ingredients:1 Reduced Fat Graham Cracker Pie Crust (store-bought or prepared as instructed below) To make your own you need:1 cup graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 Tbsp-1/4 cup butter, softened 2 cups skim milk1 cup canned pumpkin1 (1 ounce) package Sugar Free Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice1 (8-ounce) container fat-free or light whipped topping, divided
Directions:If you are making your own crust:In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well and then stir in softened butter or margarine. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Generously spray an 8 inch pie pan with cooking spray. Press graham cracker mixture evenly into pan.
Chill until ready to use.
Combine milk, pumpkin, pudding mix and spice in a mixing bowl. Beat with electric mixer until smooth.
Fold in one half of the whipped topping. Spoon into pie crust. Top with remaining whipped topping.
Freeze or refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
