Posted 11/15/2011 by UNMC Physicians
Want to get through the holiday season without feeling like Santa when the New Year rolls around?
Registered dietician Lisa Nichter at The Nebraska Medical Center said, "With a little planning and portion control, you can still enjoy holiday favorites without extra pounds or guilt."
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Eat Breakfast
Studies continually show that having breakfast prevents overeating later in the day. Breakfast can be as easy as milk and a piece of fruit but is also the perfect meal to get in fiber through whole grain bread and cereals like oatmeal.
Plan Ahead
Bring snacks to work to have in place of whatever treat well-meaning coworkers or local pharmaceutical representatives have brought. When going to indulge at a party, balance the rest of the day with low fat snacks and meals.
Keep Hydrated
The body can mistake dehydration for hunger, so do not skip the water. Also watch out for calorie laden beverages like eggnog and alcohol.
Freeze Leftovers
Many people hate to waste food, and that’s OK. Just freeze most of the leftovers and practice portion control when eating them. UNL Extension www.food.unl.edu has a wealth of information not only on how anyone can safely keep leftovers but also healthy recipes, cooking and eating ideas.
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Keep Exercising
Too busy . . . too tired . . . not enough sunlight? It’s easy to make excuses for not getting in enough exercise during the holidays. A pedometer is a great investment during the busy holidays. Not only will it count all the running around to get the Black Friday deals, but it is also a constant reminder to walk more. A good goal is 10,000 steps a day (the average American gets 2500). For more ideas to increase activity check out America on the Move: https://aom3.americaonthemove.org
Be Accountable
Have a fitness buddy or join an exercise group and keep a food and exercise journal. The Diabetes Center has a six week program focused on walking and weight management that incorporates this self monitoring. To find out more about Eat Walk Talk, call 402-559-8700.
If you’d like to make an appointment with Nichter, please call 402-559-7200.
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