How to avoid or at least minimize weight gain
Whether you are eating out or at a family members house, try to choose the healthiest options to make the meal fit into your normal diet. Steer clear of deep fried, pastry-based dishes or those with creamy or cheesy sauces. If you are having dessert, keep the portion small and choose more fruit-based options.
There is also the 50% Rule to get the best of both worlds. Instead of falling to one extreme or the other, you can take whatever goals you usually follow and cut them by 50% for the holiday season. This pertains to your work-outs and diet.
Also try taking to focus off of food, Avoid overindulging and spend more time conversating and spending quality time with loved ones.
And if needed, there is always Medical Weight Loss that we offer at Qvita Health and Wellness for a safe way to get the help you need for weight loss.
Healthy Tips:
Surviving if you have Chronic Illness
To make the most out of your holiday time, you want to reduce stress in spite of chronic illness. Know what you need and realize just because you can do certain things does not mean you should. You don’t want to end up flaring up from your illnesses that you cannot function for days or weeks after.
Set Healthy Boundaries
When you think about getting together with family do you feel stressed about questions you might be asked? Are you anticipating triggers? If so have a plan in advance. Identify your needs by implementing certain boundaries. Maybe you go to only one family party or you schedule time for yourself on your calendar. This can lead to pushback from family but don’t let this deter you. Stand firm in that you will and not tolerate.
Clearly communicate your boundaries when you talk to family and be specific. For example, if you don’t want to talk about your marriage or love-life, state this clearly early on. Then stay consistent if you want them to respect you. If you let them slide here and there you are setting an example that it is ok. And finally excuse yourself if needed. Hopefully it will not come to this but if you need to leave a conversation all together for the sake of you emotional well-being to do so.
Additional sources: Haliey Bouch, 5 ways to set boundaries; 30 tips for Coping with Chronic Illness During the Holiday Season, Creaky Joints; CDC
Qvita Health and Wellness, Wesley Chapel Florida. Also near Lutz, Tampa, New Tampa, Land O Lakes, and more.
Author Peggy Demetriou, FNP, APRN-BC Founder and CEO of Qvita Health and Wellness.