Staying Fit thru the Holidays

With Holidays around the corner-this is the time to plan your attack of maintaining your fitness and sanity thru this time of year.

STEP 1: Reduce or avoid alcohol. This can save you a lot of calories. And keep your mind sharp so not to give into poor choices!

STEP 2: Eat before going to a holiday party. You'll be less likely to fill up on sweets and high-calorie appetizers. Stay away form known trigger foods as well!

STEP 3: Keep up your exercise program. It will help you maintain your weight, give you more energy and allow you to deal better with holiday stress. Your gift to yourself!

STEP 4: Bring fat-free or low-fat dishes to potluck parties. Encourage others to do the same.

STEP 5: Arrive at mealtime for a dinner party and avoid before-dinner drinks and appetizers. Or arrive after and enjoy the company.

STEP 6: Replace sweets with healthy holiday snacks such as fruit baskets and nuts in shells. They look just as festive and are healthier.

STEP 7: Attend only the parties you really want to go to. You'll save a lot of calories - and time.

STEP 8: Simplify the meal if you are cooking. Serve raw vegetables with a dip for an appetizer, a low-fat main course with one or two vegetables, and a fruit and low-fat cheese platter for dessert. This can all be found pre-made, to further keep you from nibbling during prep.

STEP 9: Set realistic goals. At a holiday dinner or party, indulge in some goodies, but eat smaller portions. Have only one glass of wine or Champagne. Take half a slice of pie.

STEP 10: Avoid skipping meals before a big holiday meal. You don't want to arrive starving and then gorge yourself on sweets and other unhealthy fare.

STEP 11: Use moderation and relax. If you break down and eat a high-fat dessert, just go easy on what you have the rest of the day or cut back a few calories tomorrow.

STEP 12: Drink lots of water.

STEP 13: Find other ways to enjoy the season without food and drinks... get out to the hills and walk or drive to see the scenery... enjoy games with the family and friends... help out those in need... take in a movie... read or read to your kids/grandkids... see a play... decorate or make holiday cards

Tips

• Following common sense is your best bet.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with new - and healthier - types of holiday dinners.
• Keep up on Exercise regimens - get up earlier - take a family member or friend along with you - buddy up