Playing the Holiday Food Game by Marjorie Geiser, RD

Whether you are the host/hostess or you are the guest, be selective about where you go and how many events you take part in.

·Attend the ‘have to’ events. These are the events with family and close friends. The ones you enjoy the most (we hope). Then there are the business and work events.

·Watch out for the office parties, especially! Some you may have to at least make a showing to these, but nothing says you have to drink all the punch and be the last one out the door! Stick with your water and leave early for dinner at home.

·When you are the host/hostess, you have control over what the food will be. Choose foods you enjoy and are what you want to eat. Since so many other people are trying to watch what they eat, you may be surprised to find this a very popular choice!

·When you are the host/hostess, provide plenty of non-alcoholic beverages. People just want something in their hands, but many will also opt for no alcohol if it’s available.

4 – Put your home game plan together.

Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean you have to eat as if you’re at a party the entire season! In fact, because you will be socializing more at this time, this is even a better reason to eat as well as possible when home.

·Always plan ahead when going to a party or event that evening. This could include eating fewer calories throughout the day or cutting down on the fat.

·Avoid making desserts just for the family. There will be plenty to sample at events.

·Choose extra fruits and vegetables. This would be a perfect time to strive for 5 per day. Make a pact to eat healthier at home during this period than ‘usual’. It may even rub off to create habits that last past the holidays!

·If you receive a lot of candy, cookies or alcohol as gifts, give them to others as gifts, or bring them to work to share with others.

5 – Determine your exercise plan of action.

Many people strive all year to get a regular exercise program going, only to let it slide over the holidays. Then, once New Year comes, they again struggle to re-start a regular program. The best way to avoid this from happening year after year is to plan ahead for such things.

·Hire a personal trainer. Whether you find someone to come to your home or meet him/her at the gym, this could help keep you on track during the holiday season. Just that motivation alone might keep you going!

·If you have a stationary bike, elliptical trainer or treadmill at home, put it in front of the TV so you can watch either the news or your favorite show. Another option is to get a book on tape or audio files of seminars to listen to while working out. Because life is so busy during this time, you will be able to accomplish two things at once; exercise and enjoy some entertainment.

·While doing chores at home, put some music on and build up a sweat dancing.

The holidays are a great time to enjoy friends and family. Many holiday events are centered around food and eating, and we are so busy that often our exercise routines fly out the window. Use these strategies to plan your course of action for the holidays. This could be a great time of the year to find help, such as a personal trainer, a Registered Dietitian or perhaps a life coach to help you stay focused and in control.

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BIO:

Marjorie Geiser has been teaching health, fitness and nutrition since 1982. She is a nutritionist, registered dietitian, certified personal trainer and life coach. As the owner of MEG Fitness, Marjorie’s goal for her clients is to help them incorporate healthy eating and fitness into their busy lives. To learn more about the services Margie offers, go to her website at www.megfit.com or email her at Margie@megfit.com.

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