How to Shed Extra Holiday Pounds the Easy Way

Holiday festivities are often focused on food, which can be difficult to resist. If your family traditions have always included food, the holidays might become a time when you pack on a few pounds. Coupled with a hectic holiday schedule when you might skip workouts, you could be facing January with a definitive fitness goal in mind. Learn how to shed holiday pounds the easy way.

Discipline is Always the Best Choice

While you can shed extra holiday pounds in just a few weeks, being disciplined is always the best choice. Have a plan before attending holiday parties. For example, consider sticking to the rule of one. This means you can have one spoonful of mashed potatoes with gravy or one Christmas cookie. This helps you resist the temptation to nosh on a half dozen cookies while you chat with family and friends. Plus, you won’t feel deprived, which can ultimately lead to overindulgence before the holidays are over.

Math Matters

Nothing is simpler than counting the calories you put into your mouth. Keep track of the calories you consume in the New Year. About 3,500 calories equal a pound. This means you would have to cut 3,500 calories per week to lose a pound. Tally up the estimated number of calories you eat each day. Find ways to cut 500 to 1000 calories each day to help you lose weight. This varies based on many factors, so some people might lose more weight than others. The types of foods you choose also make a difference.

Eat Whole Foods

Processed and packaged foods tend to have more calories, fat, salt and sugar. Shop the middle and outer edges of the grocery store to find whole foods. Nuts, eggs, low-fat dairy, whole grain pasta and bread and lean meats with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables are the best choices. These foods are satisfying and do not contain unnecessary additives. Add flavor to your foods with healthy spices such as garlic, onion, rosemary and cinnamon. If you have a sweet tooth, add Stevia to your coffee or tea instead of sugar.

Keep on Moving and Don’t Stop

The ultimate weapon against weight gain is the combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise. While there are is array of products that claim to provide the same results, there is no substitution for old-fashioned diet and exercise. Resist the temptation to try these alleged shortcuts that are advertising during the holiday season and new year. It is likely you will lose money rather than weight. Exercise every day to help you shed pounds. Even if you just fit in 10 or 15 minutes, it helps. Make it easy to exercise by having workout equipment at home. An elliptical provides a fantastic full body workout. The Octane xR6 is a seated workout based on the health club model for amazing results.

If you overindulged during the holidays, you don’t have to carry the weight into the new year.