Sunday, December 20, 2009

Have a Healthy Merry Christmas!

I love this time of year, especially having so many holiday traditions to keep up with. Plus, we all get to enjoy a white Christmas! Take advantage of this winter holiday by trying some winter sports...sleigh riding, ice skating, snow tubing, skiing, or snowboarding. Remember though, play it safe on the ice or snow!

Speaking of holiday traditions...most traditions involve special foods. These foods tend to be high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar. Challenge yourself this Christmas to make healthier meal choices and make time for exercise. Go for a winter wonderland walk after dinner or try exercising to your favorite holiday music. Don't forget about fruits and vegetables this Christmas. Add some berries to your favorite salad or dessert. Toss some spinach, broccoli, or green beans into your favorite side dish. By setting one simple, realistic goal each week, you can reach your long-term nutrition and exercise goals for the year!

If you are motivated to start new eating habits during Christmas, try keeping food records. By writing down what you are eating, how much you are eating, when you are eating, and where you are eating, you will become more nutritionally conscious. You may also want to consider weighing yourself once a week (make sure you are consistent with the same scale, day, and time each week). Lastly, try to avoid putting comfortable clothes on during this time of year...the elastic waistband is allowing you to gain weight!

Aside from the holiday food traditions this time of year, remember the true reason behind the season: "I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year." ~Charles Dickens

Wishing you a happy, healthy Merry Christmas!

With Love, Faith, Hope, Peace, and Joy,
Shore Dietitian

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