Indulge without the bulge

How to stay fit - and sane - for the holidays

The bustle of the holidays are upon us! Lots of gatherings, indulgent food, and perhaps more than one cocktail has us all asking the question: how do I get through the season without gaining a few (or several) pounds? Here are three important things to consider to stay in shape over the holidays.

Libations
Whether beverages are alcoholic or not, they pack a caloric punch! Pun intended. Yummy drinks typically have loads of hidden, or not so hidden, sugar. Decide on how your day is going to look. If you’re going to a party that day and you’re going to want to enjoy an amazing drink, then go for it. Choose just that – an amazing drink. Make it worth it, and enjoy every sip. Choose the smallest glass you can and try to limit yourself to six ounces. For every glass of something fun, drink two large glasses of water. Choose sparkling water, club soda or flat water. Add lemon, lime or orange wedges for some flavour. Not only will this give you something to do and hold, it will also counteract the effects of alcohol, sugar and caffeine by hydrating your cells.

Fare
Grandma’s perogies, that fabulous chocolate ganache torte that your best friend always brings, and those darn chocolates and cookies in the staff room. How do you deal? First off, when things get really out of control keeping a food journal keeps people honest. It doesn’t have to be fancy; just jot down what you eat on a piece of paper. It will make you think twice about the things that pass by your lips. Second piece of advice: when at a buffet dinner, choose a small plate -- like a child’s plate, for example. Fill it up with tons of veggies, some meat and a few other things you must taste; then eat slowly. Drink a few glasses of water and wait a bit before going for seconds. Ask yourself if you really need them? For parties, I recommend eating a full meal before going. Make sure to get a lot of protein and good fats (olive oil, nuts, seeds, etc.) so you feel satiated. You will be less likely to over indulge in the hors d’oeuvres.

Sweat
It seems tougher to get to the gym during the holidays. Often they are closed or busy at weird times or you’re just plain too tired or busy to get there. Try to get some activity in at least six times a week. If there is one thing that will make you feel better it is to move. Keeping this a habit will ensure that January won’t come with a shock to the system. Even a brisk walk at lunch will help. Get the air circulating in your lungs, and oxygen to your muscles, to ensure all systems flow better -- especially the one that backs up with all the cheese, flour and sugar that’s around during the holidays. It may be cold outside but bundle up and get out there; it’s free, easy and a great way to calm the nervous system after a big meal or busy day. Yoga or a daily sitting meditation (as little as four minutes upon rising) will ensure you are even keeled and clear headed. Keep up the vitamins, including fish oils, vitamin D and B complex to make sure you’re getting all the support you need in regards to your body’s recovery.

Enjoy the holidays with balance. Embrace your family and friends and create fond memories, but make a few choices to honour your body and you’ll be good to go when January hits.

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