Tips on Avoiding Holiday Weight Gain

Dear Coach,

These last few months, I’ve been working hard to lose my “Covid pounds” and I’m making progress. However, in the midst of the “holiday eating season,” my weight loss has stalled. I really don’t want to add “party pounds” to what I already have to lose. 

Help!

Signed,

No More Gains

Dear No More Gains,

Many of us are walking in your shoes trying to, at the very least, maintain our weight during this time of parties, family celebrations, and cookie baking.

For a start, consider embracing mindful eating. Dr. Susan Albers, author and psychologist, writes, “Mindful eating is about awareness. When you eat mindfully, you slow down, pay attention to the food you’re eating, and savor every bite.”

If you’re tempted to graze your way across the treat table while attending a cocktail party, consider what Dr. Albers says. Pay attention to what you’re eating and slow down.

Here are five more holiday eating tips:

1. Don’t show up hungry. Eat something nutritious before an eating event and you’ll be less tempted.

2. Be clear about your health goals. Now is a good time to review the plans you made to lose your Covid pounds. Be honest with yourself and set an achievable goal for the end of the year. Also, set an exercise goal. I know it’s a challenge to stick to a schedule but it’s an important part of your overall staying healthy strategy. 

3. Align your actions with your goals. Spur-of-the-moment food choices are made when you forget what it is you want and do the opposite. Consider keeping a food journal during this challenging season. Perhaps you can find a partner to share it with. 

4. Stay hydrated. Drinking water positively affects your overall health, your cognitive function, concentration and alertness. It’s easy to forget the water when eggnog, punch, and alcoholic beverages are showing up everywhere. Staying hydrated will also help you feel less hungry.

5. Enjoy. When you do indulge, notice what it is you're eating, be mindful of the texture and taste, and really enjoy the experience. As the doctor says, “Savor every bite.”

Coaching questions: What’s your holiday eating plan? What will you do to enjoy the season and take care of your health at the same time? 

Mershon Niesner is a Certified Life Coach and author of “Mom’s Gone, Now What? Ten Steps to Help Daughters Move Forward After Mother Loss” which is available on Amazon; also, locally at Sunshine Booksellers and Keep In Touch. For more information visit www.mershonniesner.com. Email your coaching questions to askcoachmershon@gmail.com. Your identity will be kept strictly confidential.