Healthier holidays

The Holidays are right around the corner and no matter what you celebrate, there is most likely food involved... Lots of food. 

It's the phenomenon that motivates New Year's resolutions; the pounds that magically appear between Halloween and Jan. 2. In her article, Elizabeth Giorgi talks about the problems and potential solutions to packing on the holiday pounds. 

Problem 1: Holiday comfort foods.

At the end of the ear, low fat substitutes may not curb the craving. Which can be alright, as long as it is all in moderation. 

"Eat smaller amounts of calorie-dense foods, and larger amounts of fruits, vegetables and other such foods," the article states. 

Problem 2: Old-fashioned recipes. 

Cream, butter, sugar, more butter and some extra sugar. Seems like the base for a lot of traditional deserts. A solution? Change up the recipe! There are whole publications dedicated to lightening up your favorite meals, one example, Cooking Light. That way, if you don't want to waste ingredients perfecting your Super Secret Low-Cal Cookies, search for one someone already made. Most likely, no one will notice the difference. 

Problem 3: Pot-lucks and Buffets. 

If where you are eating doesn't have the same health-conscious values as you, it can be hard not to pack on the pounds. The key is to plan ahead and maintain that "moderation" mantra. 

Some things you can stuff yourself with? Salads and broth-based soups. 

Problem 4: Stress levels rise and the temperature drops. 

Stress causes most people to eat more, and with everything going on, its no wonder the pounds pile on. The best way to fight the stress is to work out. Any physical activity can lower stress levels, but yoga and others like it does a great job. Instead of dishing out the big bucks for a class, try finding something on the internet for free, like a podcast. 

Working out also helps with weight management, so keep it as a priority. 

Problem 5: Alcohol.

It adds extra calories, reduces inhibitions and can dehydrate you. An unfriendly combination to your waistline. Just limit your intake and drink lots of other liquids. 

Just for kicks, here is a look at the caloric value of some holiday drinks:

• Hot buttered rum = 418 calories
  
• Margarita = 408 calories 
• White Russian = 355 calories 
• Mud-slide = 295 calories 
• Brandy Alexander = 246 calories 

Problem 6: "I will burn it off after the holidays" mentality. 

Truth is, you will regret it. Losing weight is a lot harder than putting it on. Instead, aim to maintain your weight through the holidays, and then get even more fabulous after Jan. 1.