Lose 7lbs in 7 weeks- beat the holiday bloat- WEEK 4

We have about 4 more weeks until we celebrate another new year. A new, squeaky-clean year to become the best you YOU can be! 

The average American gains 7lbs between October and January (think Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years events... and food). 

This year, let's do things differently. Instead of gaining 7lbs this season, lets lose 7lbs together!! (Or maintain if you’re at a healthy weight already).

Each week, I will post a couple tips to keep you (or get you) in the best shape of your life- during several of the big holidays!! I would love for us to make this a dialogue. Submit your reply and let me know what works for you, what doesn't, what your goals are... etc. Your inspirational ideas and stories may also inspire the other Patch readers to make healthy changes this season! This is week 4 for those of you that missed the last several weeks tips (be sure to check it out on the Patch Blog Site!!).

Statistics show that if we can be in a fitness journey together, we are more likely to achieve our goals and beyond!

Below are my fourth week’s healthy tips; remember, you can do it!!

How To Eat Well While Eating Out or At a Social Gathering

Eating out or attending a party? You don’t have to leave your healthy habits at the restaurant or guest’s door. If you’re at a restaurant, swap your regular starter for a broth-based soup. Research shows that those who begin dinner with a cup of soup are less likely to overindulge. Choose a lean meat for your entrée and add some steamed vegetables—the combo will give you plenty of protein and disease-fighting antioxidants. Eating like that will leave you room to enjoy yourself: One 5-ounce glass of red wine won’t break your calorie bank (three or four will)! Social Gatherings- before you even go to the party, have a healthy snack like one serving of nuts and veggies. This will keep your hunger from making poor choices. Also, keep your plate loaded with low-calorie choices like veggies (skip the dip if you can) and your cup filled with water. Think of all other foods as treats. Finally, if there is a meal involved at the social gathering, only take what you absolutely love. If the mashed potatoes are not your FAVORITE, skip them; they are often high in calories and lower in nutrients. Look at all the options and only pick the must-haves. If everything is a must-have, take two little spoonfuls of everything; you can always go back for more if you’re still hungry- but chances are, you wont be if you’re drinking enough water!! Remember, moderation on all fronts leads to weight management success!

Check Your Hunger Level

As you stand in front of the open refrigerator door, pause for an important question: “Am I really hungry or am I just bored?” You may be surprised at how often you reach for a snack when your body doesn’t need it. Shut the fridge door and do some push-ups against the kitchen counter, or just go for a walk (it’s so beautiful out right now- IN DECEMBER – take advantage of it!!). Often, an urge will evaporate in just a few minutes if you find something engaging to do.

For more information or if you're looking for a fitness coach to assist you through the holiday challenge, contact inFIT: info@infittraining.com 763.424.4435

inFIT and Ashley Darkenwald, CPT, PES

Inspiring families to optimal health and fitness