Avoid the Holiday Bulge This Season!

The holidays are a notorious time for weight gain. From about mid-December to January 1, it seems that there are countless parties, events, and well-meaning pushy relatives who want to sabotage your healthy eating habits.

All too often, self-deprivation backfires and leads to late-night binging, so it’s important to find a healthy balance. After all, the holidays are a time to enjoy your favourite treats. Here’s how to get through the holidays enjoying the foods you love without the panic that comes from checking the scale in the New Year.

Choose a smaller plate
Did you know that the average restaurant dinner plate has increased from 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) in recent years?

Load up an appetizer or dessert plate rather than a dinner plate. Plate sizes can create an optical illusion that will trick your eyes into thinking you’re eating more with a smaller plate, instead of depriving yourself with a larger plate.

Practise mindful eating
Eating mindfully includes breathing deeply and being conscious of the food you’re eating rather than just shovelling it down. Eating should be a multi-sensory experience, so enjoy the smells and colours of the food on your plate, too.

Slow down!
Did you know it takes 20 minutes for your brain to realize you’re stomach is full? Chew more slowly, put down your fork and knife between bites and chat or sip water, and wait at least 20 minutes before deciding if you really want seconds.

Go easy on the bubbly
Not only is drinking too much bad for your health, but it’s also hard on your waistline! Limit yourself to one or two drinks per event, and choose a smaller wine glass.

Instead of one too many cocktails, make a conscious effort to drink more water, which will also help speed up your metabolism.