Arm yourself against holiday weight gain with these top tips from our favourite health experts – Leslie Beck, Dr. Joey Shulman and Rose Reisman.
EAT...
If you’re going to a party, eat small portions throughout the day to avoid overeating – and never arrive with an empty stomach.
Green Light: Fruit, vegetables, sushi, smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, chicken satays, whole grains and legumes.
Red Light: Anything deep fried, made with excess butter, oil, cream or cheese (yes, mini stuffed pastries are out).
Avoid at all costs: Pecan pie (about 450 calories).
DRINK...
Alcohol can increase appetite and speed up digestion, so don’t overdo it. Try to keep it to one or two 5-oz glasses.
Green Light: Low-calorie soft drinks, spritzers, water, red wine and diluted juices.
Red Light: Sweet cocktails, coolers, or hot drinks with whipped cream.
Avoid at all costs: Spiked, full-fat eggnog (about 400 calories).
...AND BE MERRY
Exercise helps keep a smile on your face and fights stress. It also helps you avoid holiday weight gain. Every extra pound means you’ve consumed 3,500 more calories than you need. Make sure to burn some of those calories. The good news is that every minute counts, whether it’s housework, walking the dog or strolling the mall.
3 Top Tips
1. Eat a small, protein-filled meal (e.g. yogurt, chicken, protein shake) just before going out.
2. Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water, diet drinks and spritzers.
3. Don’t stop exercising no matter what. If you can’t fit in a 45-minute cardio workout, sneak in a 20-minute run, power walk or stair climb. These burn close to 200 calories and reduce your appetite.
