We’re all familiar with unhealthy habits over the holidays. The holidays may encourage overeating because of all the tempting high-calorie food, as well as a sedentary lifestyle being on “vacation mode” all throughout the next week. Not to mention all the free booze!

On average, an adult can add up to 1kg every time Christmas rolls around. It may not seem like a lot but it does contribute to your total annual weight gain and worse, could become even more if you get used to the amount of food you’re eating over at Lola’s place.

Here are some tips to help you get through it while being healthy.

1. Calorie Count

The average person should consume 1,500-2,000 calories depending on that person’s height, current weight, and your weight goals. For those maintaining, it’s important to count your calories so you make sure you don’t go over your daily limit. Excess calories = excess weight.

2. Stay Active with Family

Suggest doing a physical activity with the family this year. Instead of sitting around watching TV or movies, maybe you could do something fun like rock climbing or hiking. Something as simple as going on bike rides or walks together as a family could be a good way to bond instead of the usual indoor eating sessions.

3. Snack Wisely

If you know you’re going to be eating a lot during dinner, don’t overeat your breakfast and lunch. Save your calories for the real meal. Instead, take small snacks (wisely) throughout the day. Make sure the snacks are healthy and low in calories (i.e. not chips or beer).

4. Get Plenty of Sleep

Now is the best time to catch up on all those sleepless nights throughout the year. Believe it or not, having the right hours of sleep can affect your appetite (and thus your weight). Avoid binge eating by resting your body well.

5. Drink Lots of Water

Water can be a great buffer to tell you if you’re really hungry or not. Did you know that in most cases when we think we’re hungry, we’re actually just thirsty? If you find your tummy rumbling, try drinking a glass of water to see if that can satisfy it.

6. Focus on Eating More Fiber

Fiber is the type of food that makes you stay fuller longer. Vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds are some examples. Eat more of this during your meals and you’ll be full throughout the day, no room for a heavy snack or even a heavy dessert.

7. Limit Your Dessert Intake

Sugar is one of the top reasons why people gain weight over Christmas. It’s that time of the year when there is always something baking in the oven. Sugar makes you hungry faster and is high in calories.

All in all, the most important thing to remember is discipline. You have to discipline yourself to listen to your body and feed it the nutrients it needs to get through the day. Indulge yourself once in a while but don’t go overboard to the point of no return and you will end up on the other side just fine. Got any more suggestions on how to stay fit and healthy during the holidays? Let us know!