October to January are the months were weight gain is the highest. It starts with Halloween with all the sweets that leads into Thanksgiving for the bigger feast, then Christmas it is a eating fest.
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, most Americans -- 59% in 2003 -- do not engage in vigorous, leisure-time physical activity. Add in the time demands of the holidays and the urge to stay inside because of the weather, and you have a recipe for even more inactivity.
This is also the season when many people get sick due to change in weather, poor eating habits, and stress levels increase. Fight against the gain and sickness. A heart attack does not differentiate between Christmas and another of poor eating.
I can give 10 ways to stay healthy during the holiday season:
1. Get involved in a group fitness class or bootcamp. Working out with friends is better than the motivation and stress alone. It can be fun and a great stress relief.
2. Eat in moderation. When all those holiday feasts are set out, definitely enjoy the meal but do not go overboard. Cut the serving size in 1/2 and fill up on the vegetables. When it comes to dessert, take a sample size piece for taste.
3. Drink lots of water during this season. Especially before a big meal. It will cut back on your hunger and fill you up much faster.
4. Make sure to eat as clean and regular as possible. Maintain healthy habits and rest on the day of feasting.
5. Exercise on a regular basis. Continual exercise will keep from pounds gaining and keep your metabolism in a burn state even with bad foods.
6. Rest. Get at least 8 hours a night. This is when the body can repair itself and keep immune system strong.
7. If you have no self control, then look into Advocare's 'Clump n Dump' and 'Carb-away'. These will help those who do cheat, not gain the extra pounds with all the extra calories.
8. Supplement with protein powders to cut back on sugar and sweets. A great snack without all the negatives.
9. Take your health into priority. Don't let this season consume you or use it as an excuse. Christmas comes and goes, but the effects of a stroke or heart attack linger forever.
10. Get on a personalized program that you like and are happy with. You will continue to see results while others are gaining and complaining.
Make the difference in your next season. Check out www.mbnpt.com or get on our mailing list for up coming programs that fit your lifestyle. We have something for everyone.
