It’s officially the Holiday season. It’s time to celebrate! Unfortunately the holidays also bring threats
to our health which include illness, increase in stress and weight gain. Let’s talk about strategies to minimize these
threats.
Holiday Weight Gain
Our first topic is holiday weight gain. Each year, the average American gains between
one and five pounds during the holiday season. This occurs because the holiday
season is more than just one meal of overindulgence. There are work parties,
family parties, social gatherings and many other activities that revolve around
food. Holiday food is usually highly palatable and loaded with fat, salt and
sugar.
We overindulge because we see the holidays as a time to “let
go.” A few pounds may not seem like a big deal, but the problem is that most of
us never lose that weight. Over time, weight gain can contribute to obesity and
cause serious health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Fortunately,
with planning and consideration, we can avoid holiday weight gain.
Tip #1 Set a fitness
goal.
Setting a fitness goal can be a great motivator for change in
behavior. We often attempt to establish healthier habits as part of a New
Year’s resolution. To have a healthier holiday, start now rather than wait.
Join a fitness club or group. Sign up for a local holiday race like one in the Palm Coast Running Series (https://www.palmcoastgov.com/events/running-series
).
There are many programs that help beginners get ready for
their first race. Is there an activity you’ve always wanted to try? Get out there
and do it.
Tip #2 Keep your health a priority.
The holidays can disrupt your routine and you may need to do
things differently. Flexibility will be
the key to your success. It can be helpful to combine exercise with family
commitments. Family walks, hikes or bike rides are fun and beneficial for the
whole family.
Give yourself permission to engage in self-care practices. Your entire family will benefit from a healthier you. And remember healthy habits are contagious so you're actually helping others by taking care of yourself.
I hope your holiday season is off to a happy and healthy start. Stay tuned for more tips to stay healthy for the holidays.
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