Pack on the Pounds

Posted on December 22, 2017 by Christian Bossert - cbossert

Odds are you will put on weight over the holidays. If you didn’t have experience in this area you wouldn’t be reading this. It’s okay, you’re not alone. I too have experience in indulging in “too much Christmas ham.”

We know how to do it. It’s easy. A cookie here. A cocktail there. Pecan pie? Why not? It’s the holidays. You should indulge. This is what we’re told. This is what we know. Why should this change? I’ll tell you why. It is because you want to change. You are tired of gaining weight. And you are over busting your behind to lose it in January.

Since I have your attention let’s collaborate. Let’s make a game plan this holiday season not to pack on the pounds. Enjoy the food that comes along with the celebration, but have a strategy to counter our limited willpower.  

1. Drink Water You know this. You know how to do it. Make it happen. Water is found in its pure source, sparkling, fruits, and vegetables. Fruits and veggies have a ton of water in them, but it’s difficult to determine how much. Bottom line, these foods will keep you hydrated and feeling good. Shoot for at least eight 8 ounce cups a day. Drinking water will help you feel fuller and help you avoid over-eating. I love the app Plant Nanny. It provides a fun incentive to keep track of your water intake, plus it sends reminders when you go too long without drinking water.

2. Movement Simply getting off our arses during the holidays isn’t easy. How do I know? I’m one of you. I used to sit around watching football, movies, and playing video games. In recent years decided to make a change. Scheduling activity into my day such as a yoga class, running, weight lifting or playing a sport have made a major impact in my will power, and helps start burning off those mashed potatoes.

3. Lay off talking politics How often has a political discussion left you feeling peaceful? I can’t say that I feel too good following a heated political discussion. Going political can be a willpower killer.  When we feel frustrated, we are inclined to make unhealthy choices, such as more alcohol and greasy food. We all have opinions. Sometimes we don’t agree. This is a good thing. Otherwise we would be in North Korea where we wouldn’t be able to share our opinions at all. If politics do come up shift the convo in another direction. Did you see Star Wars? what are your thoughts? Who wins, Alabama or Clemson? Stranger Things?

Since you’ve made it this far you clearly intend to keep in shape when most people throw their hands up in defeat. Mucho applause for your determination and willpower. Total role model you are!