Now that we’ve averted the end of the world per the Mayans, and the fiscal cliff set up by Congress, we have a personal unpleasant reality to face, but the sooner we get it over with the better, so don’t put it off. Get on the scale this week and write down how much you weigh. Don’t be surprised at the probable weight gain. Before the 2011 holiday season, CNN Health reported that most adults gained about a pound during the holidays, while those who were obese gained an average of five pounds. It doesn't sound like a lot until you learn that for most adults, the weight doesn't come off so after 20 years of not losing that single pound the average Gen X 42 year old is now carting around the equivalent weight of a backpack stuffed with books.
Just because you still have holiday leftovers does not mean they all have to be consumed in the next few days. Freezing works great for preserving most food. Also, be smart in what you do save for later. Flavorless mashed potatoes from mix should be flushed along with that sickeningly sweet yam and marshmallow monstrosity cooked by your Aunt Nellie. Turkey meat can be portioned out on sandwiches for weeks, but go easily on the dressing.
Alcohol and sweets are always popular holiday gifts. One of my friends now has a sideboard full of bottles and elegant deserts. Again, these can be consumed over time, unless you lack control in which case they can be given to others who were less fortunate. Don’t be surprised to see the same fruitcake you give away this year, come back to you next holiday season.
The best way to take off the weight is to cut out empty calories and up your protein consumption until you’re not tempted to eat between meals, the method outlined by Barry Sears, PhD inventor of the zone diet in the anti-aging DVD “Reverse Aging Now.” Don’t forget to add a cornucopia of low calorie nutrient dense vegetables. Not only do they fill you up, they’re good for you. I prefer stir frying veggies with spices like garlic as opposed to steaming or boiling.
If you’ve found that the seasonable cold and extra pounds are discouraging you from exercising, don’t lose heart. Find exercise you enjoy, then take the time to make it a routine. Simply by adding a half hour of walking to your daily routine while keep your calorie consumption static, will cause you to lose ten pounds before next holiday season. When Thanksgiving rolls around in 2013, save this link to the Reverse Aging News guide to healthy holiday eating so that the same problem doesn’t afflict you again next year. I’d be happy to go on, but it’s time for my Venice Beach bike ride.
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