Common diet mistakes: Getting healthy "Not-to-do's"

Halloween kind of kicks off the holiday season and with that I’ve had a lot of clients asking for tips on how to stay on track throughout the holidays.  Starting with that Halloween candy…. bring it to the office or have your kids bring it to school to share! You don’t need it laying around your house just asking to be eaten! If you decide that you’d like to treat yourself, enjoy one snack size piece and let that be your treat.  Generally speaking, a small amount of something will fulfill a craving.

Organic Apple Pie--Eat Sparingly!!

Going into Thanksgiving, remember that it is ONE meal on ONE day.  Thanksgiving should not last all week long as far as your eating is concerned.  Leftovers are great and I suggest using them, but be conscious of the leftovers that you choose.  You can use leftover turkey and vegetables to create a great meal.  Apple pie…not so much! If you decide to treat yourself, again remember small portions.  Also on Thanksgiving day, choose only those sweets or treats you really enjoy.  You don’t need to sample everything just to find out that again you don’t really like it.

When speaking of holiday parties, try and eat something healthy before you go.  Don’t “save up the calories” by not eating until the party.  You will overindulge.  If you go with something in your stomach, you will be less likely to graze on not-so-great appetizers and party foods.  Keep your “calorie budget” in mind as well.  (Check out this story from NPR.) Calories do still count over the holidays!  I try to have my clients maintain weight through the holidays.  It is very difficult to lose weight (if that is your goal) through the holidays.  Come the end of the holiday season, you can push the weight loss again.  If you get through the holiday season without adding on that 5-10 typical pounds, congratulations! You’ve done well!