by Haddy

Created on: November 13, 2008   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

How to avoid the holiday bulge. Don't eat. I'm kidding. As Christmas quickly approaches so does the entourage of fattening foods and desserts tempting the tastebuds to endulge. And then tempting the tastebuds to edulge more. "Will power, what's that?" Thinness can quickly become a thing of the past for some folk. those tasty treats during the holiday season leave room for people to pack on some added, unwanted tummy bulge. Perhaps the mental picture of an extra love handle here or there has got you dreading the festivities to come? Maybe you are afraid of getting thunder thighs, and not fitting into your summer bikinni?

I used to have a few anxieties myself around the battle of the holiday bulge. Not unlike others, I used to find myself quite stressed out about gaining a few pounds. Allow me now to put your troubled mind at ease. For you see, I have learned a few little tricks along the way to help keep the holiday bulge at bay. I have learned true and tried ways to keep the fat monster tamed.

I have found that if I allow myself to try a litte of everything that appeals to my tasebuds that I don't feel deprived. I don't know about you, but feeling deprived during holiday feasting equals over-eating for me. I like to eat with a smaller, dark colored plate. It helps me keep my portion smaller. Portion control can play a big part in keeping weight gain to a minumum. During the holidays I avoid eating my meals sitting in front of the television. It's too easy to keep eating while watching a show.

I also exercise more during the holidays. It's important to stay active. Not everyone can find time to go to the gym to work out, especially at Christmas time. I like to get everyone involved. For example I get all of my family in their skates, on the ice to play hockey. Sometimes we go toboganning together. Even getting out in the yard to make snowmen can be a healthy way to keep fit, and it's fun. Bonding can make exercise seem effortless.

Sometimes when I over-eat during a holiday meal I cut back a little in the next one. Going for a walk after a meal is always a good idea. I drink plenty of water during the day so I feel more full before meals. Water keeps me hydrated and helps to burn fat more proficiently. Eating my meals slowly gives my brain the time to realize when my tummy has had it fill. I enjoy drinking green tea on the colder days during the season. Green tea is filled with antioxidents and boosts metabolism. I make homemade soups to fill up on. Soup is low in calories and very filling.

Sometimes when I over-eat during a holiday meal I cut back a little in the next one. Going for a walk after a meal is always a good idea.

Through the years there have been many a person concerned about the holiday bulge. My advice is to rember that the holidays are for a short period of time. On the average a person gains one to two pounds during the Christmas holidays. Its ok to endulge a little extra during the holidays as long as you do so with caution. More then anything enjoy the holidays. Treat yourself well and remember that you have the rest of the year to work on any bulge you may have gained. Holidays can't be avoided. Yummy food and tasty treats are everywhere you look. Be strong. You can fight the holiday but you can fight the holiday bulge.

Learn more about this author, Haddy.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.