5 Tips to Maintain a Healthy Weight at Christmastime

by Dylan D., Training & Nutrition Professional

I, like so many others, love Christmas time. Beyond everything else, it is a time to celebrate the coming of the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ.   There is also a great emphasis on friends, family, and food. The third “f” there is what makes many people nervous at Christmas time. So, I want to give you five tips to keep the pounds off and stay healthy at the dinner table this December.

1 - Exercise for at least 20 minutes first thing in the morning or right before a meal.

Whatever you normally choose to do for your form of exercise, do it for at least 20 minutes first thing in the morning or right before the meal. This could be going for a run or walk, doing Crossfit, or whatever floats your boat. If you’ve done a form of exercise beforehand, it makes you feel a little more “health conscious” at the dinner table. You will be less likely to overeat.

2 - Drink a liter of water before your meals.

Often we mistake thirst for hunger, so making sure you’re adequately hydrated before your meal is key. Also, you will notice if you’re drinking water throughout your meal you will feel more satiated (I’ll save you the nerdy details, but just think about a piece of bread soaking up water!).

3 - Eat protein in the meal first.

I confess, I want to eat the whole pan of green bean casserole every year, but by eating protein first you will feel fuller. So, I would suggest eating the meat on your plate first, then going on to your sides.

4 - Say “yes” in moderation.

Have you been dreaming about having a slice of pie? Go get one. Completely denying yourself a certain food you’ve been craving is a recipe for a binge fest later on. I always tell my clients, I would rather them have a small slice of pie and enjoy it, than have them binge on a whole pie a few days later.

5 – Pray.

You may not be expecting this one, but here is why I say this: gluttony is one of the most tolerated sins in our culture. Not only that, it is often encouraged. Ask the Lord before the meal to help you not overeat and enjoy the food as a gift from Him, not as a way to sin.

Enjoy time with family and friends this Christmas and use these five tips to help you stay on track But just remember, knowing Jesus is sweeter than any pecan pie you will eat this year.