Christmas is coming – the goose is getting fat!   The season of Holiday parties and festivities is upon us!  How can we avoid gaining the 5-7 lbs during this holiday season? Most individuals gain weight during the winter- the harm is if the extra weight is not lost from year to year.  If we keep our Holiday pounds from year to year, we will have increased medical risks. It creates more risk for diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, elevated cholesterol and it even affects your sleeping patterns.

So this Holiday season, give the gift of health and incorporate exercise into your Holiday season. Here are some tips:

When shopping, park far away from the store and walk a longer distance.
Limit your desserts to one small portion.
Limit your alcohol intake (lots of sugar in those beverages!)
When grocery shopping, read the food labels on food and beverages to check the amount of fat and sugar. Labels can be misleading.
Make healthy food choices when eating out- don’t feel as if you are going to hurt the host’s feelings if you don’t have dessert. They should be supportive of your efforts.
If you are the host, make the choice of serving a heart healthy menu.
Do not let two days pass without exercising – stay in your exercise routine.
Invite your house guests to exercise with you – it’s a great and healthy way to socialize as you work out!
Schedule your exercise into your weekly plan just as you would schedule a Doctor’s appointment – and keep that commitment.
Even if you don’t have time for your full workout- do a part of it- some is better than none.
Remember that exercise is cumulative; if you only have time for a short workout on one day, do a longer workout on another day.
Or do some of your exercises in the morning and some in the afternoon.
If you are not currently exercising, don’t wait for January 1 and the new year- start a walking program now.
Exercising 5 days a week for 30- 40minutes is the ideal amount. Three times a week is the minimum.

As a gentle reminder, cut these tips out and post it on your refrigerator!  I wish a safe and joyous Holiday season! Cheers and peace to you!