Whether you’ve been partying hard or relaxing by the fireplace, chances are your holiday guilt is kicking in.
We all know this time of year involves not-so-healthy foods, desserts, and lots of alcohol.
Did you know that the average person packs on an extra 7-10 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas?
I understand how difficult it is when you realize those extra calories from holiday dinners have gone straight to your mid-section.
I also know it’s easy to feel bad about loading up on wine, gingerbread cookies, and casseroles.
But feeling bad is the last thing you want to be doing.
Here’s what I suggest:
1) Ditch the holiday guilt.
So what if you ate or drank too much over the holidays?
Most people do. Food is actually a big part of the holiday season.
Remember that stress will only increase cortisol levels and this stress hormone is definitely not your friend if you’re trying to lose weight.
Work on de-stressing and just get back on track.
2) If you have a stash of unhealthy holiday leftovers, give them away.
Others will be grateful for the yummy food.
Plus you’ll be less tempted. There won’t be any holiday treats calling your name from the fridge.
3) Modify your goals and ensure they are realistic.
If your goal was to weigh 10 pounds less by New Year’s Day and that clearly isn’t going to happen, set a new goal that you feel better about.
4) Introduce healthy whole foods into your day.
If you’re going out for dinner, why not have a protein smoothie for breakfast or a light salad for lunch?
5) Start a fun exercise program like hip-hop dancing or get back into a regular workout routine.
Change your mindset.
Think of exercise as something you enjoy. Moving your body isn’t punishment for going overboard during the holidays.
If you feel totally lost and aren’t sure where to begin, now may be a good time to invest in a personal trainer.
6) Another popular way to kickstart your health goals is with a detox.
A detox can have you back in your pre-holiday clothes in no time.
I don’t recommend liquid detox programs that involve lemon water and laxative teas.
It’s winter and your body needs nutrients from food to stay warm. Your immune system can weaken if aren’t receiving the right vitamins and nutrients through your diet.
A good cleanse encourages a wide variety of healthy foods that provide adequate nutrients.
Ditch the holiday guilt.
Stay positive.
And embrace this enjoyable time of year!
Dr. Sara has appeared on multiple radio shows/podcasts, the W Network, Breakfast Television and CP24. For almost 5 years, she worked as the National Spokesperson for a well-known digestive wellness brand, educating across the globe on gut health. Dr. Sara has been named a rising star in Canada receiving the Generation Next award for her outstanding contribution to shaping the future of Canada’s grocery industry. She frequently contributes to large publications and has been published in Best Health Magazine, The Globe and Mail, Sweat Equity, Grocery Business, Inside Fitness, Canadian Living, Elevate, HELLO, and ELLE Canada.
Dr. Sara’s approach to healthcare is not as easy as taking a pill. The “quick-fix” approach is not one she subscribes to. While there’s a pill for just about everything, rarely do prescription drugs stop the course of disease - they merely mask symptoms. Dr. Sara believes true health requires a commitment from both the doctor and the patient.
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