Hi Fit Moms!! Are we ready for the holidays?? I know I’m not…too much for a busy mom to think about, right? Well, one thing we NEED to think about and PREPARE for is all the yummy food that is headed our way! Whether it be parties, Thanksgiving weekend (I say weekend because in reality, the Thanksgiving “food” lasts longer than one day! Can you say, “leftovers”?), edible gifts, and pretty much the entire month of December, including New Years! We are hit with a month and a half of alcohol and rich foods that contain a lot of calories, sugar, and fat. But, they taste so good, it’s hard to resist, right??? WRONG! I’m here to give you some ideas to enjoy the holiday season, while keeping those extra pounds at bay.

First, the most important part, is to recognize that you are going to be faced with making choices all season long. Make a commitment to yourself now that enjoying the holidays doesn’t mean eating your way through them! Think ahead, and how the beginning of the year is going to feel when you have an extra 10-12 pounds to loose because you couldn’t control your eating.  No one wants that.

Secondly, look at your calendar and prepare yourself. You’ll know ahead of time when parties and holiday gatherings are going to take place. On the days that you don’t have a celebration, be disciplined with your eating. Try to stay within your calorie limits, don’t cheat, and workout a little longer/harder to make up for those calories you’ll enjoy later.

Next, eat a small meal right before you go to your party so you don’t over-indulge. If you do choose to have a drink, make it a wine spritzer or a vodka-soda…stay away from high-calorie drinks that include kalua and egg nog. Fill your plate first with fruit and veggies before you hit the dessert table. DO NOT “hang out” in the kitchen or near the buffet table, you will only eat more because it’s there!

Edible gifts….during the holiday season people love to bake and give goodies as gifts! Learn to re-gift or share these tasty treats. If you are planning your own party, and have the control of planning the menu, find recipes that are healthy and low calorie. Believe me, people will thank you!

Lastly, work out harder!! It is true that we ALL eat and drink more during the holidays, so plan accordingly! Add 15 more minutes to your cardio workout, bump up your level on the elliptical, or add another day to your week.

You can get through this holiday season without putting on those extra pounds, you just have to plan and be smart!!

Fit Moms, you’ll do great!!!! Enjoy the holidays for what they are meant to be about…be thankful, celebrate life, and spend quality time with family and friends!!

Orange County, Ca