5 TIPS FOR BEATING THE HOLIDAY BULGE!

It is that time of year again.  A time where holiday parties are abundant, celebrating is in full force, and overindulging is easy to do.

By Kristin Hoppe, BS, NC, Certified Nutrition Consultant

Kristin Hoppe

It’s important at this time of year to take stock in what nourishes you in life. 

Visiting with family & friends and celebrating life can feed your soul and make it seem as though the overindulgence is worth it. 

Since these temptations are inevitable, here are some simple strategies to avoid packing on the pounds during this time of holiday cheer.

1. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.  A client of mine recently returned from a holiday family visit, where she had no healthy food choice options.  What saved her?  WATER!  It helps purify, gives energy, and re-hydrates from too much sugar and refined carbohydrates. 

2. Don’t go to the party hungry!  Always have a healthy snack or meal before going out to the holiday party where you know you will be tempted.  If you go hungry, you may not be able to control yourself!

3. Eat it only if it is worth it!  Make the most of your calories.  Why waste them on less than extraordinary food?  Your belly and hips will thank you later.

4. Eat a protein rich breakfast.  Yes, it is the most important meal of the day.  Skipping breakfast will sabotage your entire day and result in strong cravings you may not be able to control come time to look at that buffet table.

5. Try sparkling water with lemon or lime instead of that sugary sweet cocktail.  Trust me, they will never know…  If you must have a drink, stick to red wine, and have it instead of dessert.

Keep Breathing! 

And finally, a bonus reminder to keep breathing!  Holidays can be stressful, and focused breathing will bring you back to center and deepen your ability to listen to your body for what it truly needs.  Is it really that Christmas cookie you want or is it something else such as time to relax and connect with a friend?  Your breath will give you the answer.

Kristin Hoppe, BS, NC, is a Certified Nutrition Consultant, Educator, and Natural Chef.  She received her nutrition and culinary training from Bauman College, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Lafayette College.

Her practice, Food Therapy, is dedicated to improving people’s health through an inspiring and comprehensive nutritional approach that celebrates food.  Kristin takes a holistic approach to health, providing clients with coaching and nutrition programs designed to facilitate healing with lasting results.  She specializes in weight management, food allergies, digestive disorders, fatigue, depression & anxiety, and detoxification & cleansing. Please visit FoodTherapySF to learn more.

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Posted on 16. Dec, 2009 by SFWJ in Diet & Nutrition

Tags: diet, nutrition, Wellness