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I blogged about this last November, but since that time, we have added new members to our family.  Also, I thought it would serve as a reminder of what we can do to maintain our weight during this season.

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season. There will be several holiday parties and there will be plenty of food everywhere. The temptation to eat high calorie foods can be very overwhelming.

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine confirms what we have known – people gain weight during the holiday season. The average weight gain is about one pound, however the heavier you are, the more you are likely to gain. Most people will lose half of the weight they gained within 5 months, however they will keep the other half and over time that adds up.

I am not here to put a damper on the Holiday Season. I love this time of the year and I am looking forward to eating those comfort foods that are only cooked once a year. I want all of us to enjoy this time, but I thought it would be great for us to be reminded of ways that we can minimize the weight gain.

• Be mindful of what you are eating and drinking – some of the drinks have more calories that the food you are munching. You might choose to indulge in 2 -3 comfort food items instead of every item on the table. Think of portion size.
• Eat breakfast everyday – do not skip breakfast trying to save your calories for the party later in the evening. Eating breakfast helps with weight maintenance and with weight loss. You never want to go to a party starving.
• Weigh yourself regularly – refer to the blog – Make The Scale Your Best Friend
• Exercise –Although we would like 30 minutes a day, it is more important to do something every day. If 10 minutes is all you have, then it is 10 minutes. It is better than nothing. Remember to alternate days with aerobic and strength/resistance exercises
• Get enough sleep – do not forget to sleep
• Chew slowly
• Drink more water
• Find time for yourself – Do not be afraid to say no. You might not be able to attend every party that you have been invited.

As we start our Holiday Season, let us not forget the true meaning of the season. It is about the people that hold our affection and being grateful to the Almighty for having them in our lives.  May your Thanksgiving be filled with love, happiness, joy and of course good food and May you be surrounded with family and friends.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!