Written By Paisley Hansen / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

Weight gain during the holidays is typical. In fact, several seasonal holidays may encourage cases of overeating, consumption of higher calorie foods and alcohol, and sedentary behavior. In western societies, individuals gain an average of one pound, or more, between the middle part of November to mid-January.

While this may not seem like a lot, most people are unable to lose the additional baggage. As a result, holidays – regardless of what time of year it is – may be a massive contributor to a person’s actual weight gain.

While this is true, it does not mean that weight gain is inevitable. From staying active to learning about acerola benefits, there are more than a few things you can do. Keep reading for some actionable tips to avoid weight gain this holiday season.

Stay Active to Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays

Sedentary activities are expected during the holidays. Unfortunately, this type of inactivity may result in weight gain, especially if it is combined with overeating.

It is smart to get up and get moving. Get the entire family involved. Even a simple, short, family walk can help to get your mind off food and let you bond with your loved ones.

Another way to stay active and healthy during the holidays is by signing up for a community fitness event or some type of activity at work. Races are a very popular option.

Engage in Smart Snacking to Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays

When the holiday season comes around, unhealthy snacks, such as cookies, cakes, and other goodies are available for you to eat when you want. If treats are too easy to access, you are more likely to snack much more than you really should.

If you are at home, this issue can be prevented by keeping your treats put away. However, it can be more difficult to engage this strategy in a situation that you cannot control – like a family party or at work.

Stay mindful of your snacking habits. If you find that you are munching because there is food lying around, not because you are actually hungry, try to avoid doing this. However, if you feel hungry and you really need a snack, choose real foods. This includes things like nuts, seeds, vegetables, and fruits. These are filling snacks that do not have any unhealthy fats or added sugars – both of these things can cause weight gain.

Be Careful with Portion Sizes to Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays

When the holidays roll around, overloading your plate is tempting. However, if you eat bigger portions of food, you are more likely to gain weight than those who maintain smaller portions. One of the best ways to reduce your portion sizes is by using smaller plates.

To figure out the right portion size to eat, be sure to read the labels on your food, and follow the serving sizes that are listed. If you cannot do either of these, you should use your own judgment to ensure you are eating an amount of food that is considered reasonable.

Engage in Mindful Eating to Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays

You may find you spend the holiday season rushing around, trying to get everything done. This may lead to multitasking while you are eating.

Studies have proven that individuals are distracted while they eat have a greater tendency to eat too much. The main reason for this is because the individual does not pay attention to the signals from their body that they are full.

To help prevent this, you should eat mindfully and help to minimize distractions. This includes things like electronics and work. Also, chew your food slowly and thoroughly, which will let you know when you are full.

Stay Healthy and Fit This Holiday Season to Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays

As you can see, there are several things you can do to help reduce holiday weight gain. Be sure to keep the tips and information here in mind, which will help you avoid winter weight gain that is so common. Being informed and knowing what to do – and what to avoid – will be beneficial now and in the new year for your health and wellness.

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Written By:

Paisley Hansen is a freelance writer and expert in health, fitness, and growing young. When she isn’t writing she can usually be found reading a good book or hitting the gym. She loves hearing from readers so feel free to contact her through Facebook.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.

Photo by Nicole Michalou from Pexels