Healthy Weight, Healthy Holidays

According to the National Institutes of Health, the average person gains one to two pounds every year during the holidays. While this may not seem like much, research shows that it can be hard to lose this weight in the new year. The good news is that with a little planning and a strategy for managing your diet and lifestyle, you can stay on top of your health and avoid the extra pounds to ensure you feel nourished and energized as you enter the new year.

Try these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stay fit and healthy through the holiday season:

• Stay Active. Even a few minutes of moderately-intense physical activity can deliver some health benefits and count toward reaching the Physical Activity Guidelines and recommendations for Americans. For adults, the many health benefits of physical activity include lowering risk of heart disease and reducing risk of weight gain.
• Eat healthy. Remember that good nutrition involves eating a variety of healthy foods. Healthy eating supports muscles and bones, boosts immunity, supports digestive function, and helps with weight management.
• Rethink your drink. Substitute water for sugary or alcoholic drinks to reduce calories.
• Plan activities that don’t involve eating. Shift the focus away from food and plan seasonal activities such as ice skating or winter hiking, volunteering in your community, or visiting a museum or exhibit—the possibilities are endless.
• Limit stress. Stress can significantly impact your ability to maintain a healthy weight. Give yourself a break if you feel stressed out, overwhelmed, and out of control. Some of the best ways to manage stress are to find support, connect socially, practice gratitude, and get plenty of sleep.

For additional resources and information about healthy weight, nutrition and physical activity, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.