HOW TO AVOID HOLIDAY WEIGHT GAIN

weightgainscaleFat-Santa

    Do you want to enjoy the holidays and all the delicious food just waiting to be devoured?  Are you looking for a way to avoid gaining those pesky “holiday handles”?  Look no further!  This blog contains several tips for avoiding excess weight gain during the holidays as well as a couple of tips for beginning your weight loss journey after the holidays are over.  Enjoy!

DON’T SKIP THE EXERCISE!   Gingerbreadworkout

During the holidays, most people get very busy with extra work, shopping, travel, and spending time with loved ones.  It can become very easy to skip working out.  Whether you have a routine in place, or need to develop one, engaging at least in mild regular exercise throughout the season will keep the muscles toned and burning excess fat.

GO EASY ON CONDIMENTS AND ALCOHOL  condiments

Gravy, butter, dressings, sauces and other condiments as well as alcohol carry a substantial excess of calories in addition to the meals you eat.  For example, having a little less dressing on your salad, or skipping that last glass of champagne will significantly decrease your caloric intake, thus helping you avoid unwanted holiday pounds.

 no-alcohol

BUY A PRE-PORTIONED PLATE OR SERVING PLATTER  preportionedplate

This is a great way to keep your food intake in check.  Pre portioned plates and platters can encourage you to eat just what you need rather than allowing your eyes to become bigger than your weight maintenance goals.  Just be sure not to refill that plate too many times, and you should be able to stay well within your ideal weight.

DRINK LOTS OF WATER  rp_hydration-199x300.jpeg

It is well known that h2o is essential for optimal functioning of all processes of the body including the digestive system and metabolic process.  Water can also help you to know your limits and curb your appetite for sweets and other dense high calorie foods by filling your stomach.  Drink lots of water throughout the season especially with heavy holiday spreads to avoid those pesky extra pounds.

CONSUME NATURAL DIGESTIVE AND METABOLIC AIDS   Firetea

Ginger, cayenne pepper, garlic, lemon, apple cider vinegar and many more natural products provide essential nutrients and enzymes that boost the immune system and help the body process food faster, absorb more vitamins and minerals, and eliminate more waste.  Add your favorite digestive and metabolic aids to your favorite holiday food and drink, or create tonics and teas to drink all winter long.

GET A MASSAGE  neckandback.jpg

Massage is proven to speed up the metabolism, firm loose skin, help to decrease the appearance of cellulite, and it can even provide a gentle detox and stimulation for the digestive system.  As if these benefits weren’t enough, massage is very relaxing and feels so good!   Decreasing stress is known to contribute to weight loss and management in a big way, so call us at Physio today to schedule a massage with our trained and licensed massage therapists.

CREATE A HOLIDAY MEAL PLAN AND STICK TO IT  logo-ashevilleidealweightlossWeight Loss Champ

When it comes to maintaining or losing weight, there is no solution like a solution that involves a well formulated plan.  This year, create a meal and exercise regime and stick to it!  There are many alternatives to your favorite holiday recipes but if you are really looking for a weight loss solution that involves meals and encouragement from an incredibly knowledgeable wellness advisor, look no further than our very own Asheville Ideal Weight Loss located inside the Physio office.  Whether you are looking to avoid weight gain during the holidays, or you want to formulate a plan to lose weight after the holidays, registered nurse Lara Taylor can guide you every step of the way and get you on track!  Don’t hesitate to call her at (828)233-5633.

 

Christopher Taylor, PT

Chris Taylor is the Founding Physical Therapist at PHYSIO Physical Therapy and Wellness Asheville. He has been voted Best Physical Therapist in Western North Carolina every year by the Mountain XPress Reader Poll. His experience includes being a patient himself which deepens his understanding of each aspect of the rehab process. He has lived and worked in 11 states which contributes to the treatment style he has developed which breaks the mold. Become a better You today! #KeepAshevilleActive