Holiday Overeating

12/10/2009

Holiday overeating -- sound familiar? First you're hit with that wave of Halloween candy, and then around the corner all the yumminess of Thanksgiving. No time to recover, though, as you're hit with another wave of merry-making deliciousness. And that's just the food; now throw in the eggnog and champagne for New Years and you've got a big ol' window of feasting.

The problem, though, is that if we partake in all this holiday overeating without any control, we become susceptible to not only weight gain, but illness and a pattern of behavior that's difficult to change.

And this feasting is also often combined with a lack of exercise, due to the time demands of the holidays and the urge to stay inside because of the weather.

Ahhh!!! So what can we do?

First, calm down. Are you calm? Good.

Second, by understanding the situation, it may be easier to not let it happen.

So know during the holidays, the number of social gatherings increase -- raising the temptation to overindulge. The pressure to give in to all the festivities are great, since we don't want to be a party killjoy or disappoint those who have toiled to present good eats. Plus, alcohol at parties increases our propensity for holiday overeating.

Also, understand that often with the holidays comes more stress, with family obligations and expectations. Well, stress can definitely lead to overeating.

This time of year can also lead to sleep deprivation, and when people are tired, they're more likely to overeat.

The holidays also can cause depression, and when depressed we often seek out comfort foods to try and make ourselves feel better. This is known as Emotional Eating.

Many who actually eat healthy throughout the year may become overwhelmed by all the holiday food and drink and become frustrated and give up on healthy eating.

Now that we know the situation, let's deal with it.

First, prepare to be aware of what you're eating and how much. Don't deprive yourself of your favorite holiday treats, but practice moderation. Try not to take as much of your favorites. If you're conscious of this during a festivity, you'll be able to accomplish it.

And don't be too hard on yourself. Losing weight during the holidays is not a likely goal, so don't force it upon yourself. Aim for maintaining.

As for exercise, if you're time-hampered, maybe use the stairs instead of elevators, and walk to a store instead of driving. If the weather is horrible, walk around your home when you're on the phone. It's better than sitting and munching.

Second, organize your holiday so as to give yourself a stress break. Keep expectations lower and ask for others to contribute pot-luck style to any parties.

Rely on your friends and family for comfort, instead of foods.

Try to be social during parties. Many people eat and drink more because they don't know what to talk about, and it occupies them. Chatting and laughing lead to less munching.

And of course, exercising will always be a great stress reliever. So, if you are feeling stressed, create the time to do some kind of workout.

Third, strategize. Before any party, eat something before you go (preferably healthy) so you won't be as hungry when you get there.

And when you're at the party, don't park yourself near the food area. The same goes for work. Avoid the break room if it's stocked with fattening goodies.

Remind yourselves that celebrations are really about family and friends -- not food.

So, enjoy this holiday season -- the right way!

Here's more help to deal with Holiday Overeating