Tips for Avoiding Extra Holiday Pounds This Year

With the onslaught of goodies, from grateful patients to department potlucks and holiday parties, it can be difficult not to overindulge. In fact, most Americans will gain at least a pound or two during the holidays and most will not lose the extra pounds – leading to significant weight gain year after year. Here are some healthy tips to help control your weight while still enjoying the holidays.

1. Pace yourself: Eat slowly and serve smaller portions. You don’t have to deprive yourself of your favorite holiday foods if you keep your portions under control.
2. Get up and get moving: Don’t just sit around feeling stuffed after a big meal. If you’re on shift after a department potluck, it should be easy to keep moving! If you’re home, go for a walk around your neighborhood. Not only will you burn calories, you’ll get a break from being around all that food.
3. Count your snacks: It’s easy to nibble endlessly on snacks and lose track of how much you are actually eating, especially on busy shifts when snacking is all you have time for. Set a limit and stick to it.
4. Curb your appetite: Before you dig into the snacks and other delicious items, try eating a small healthy meal beforehand or have a nutritious pre-meal snack. This will help you have better control over what you eat, and you’ll be less tempted to overindulge.
5. Create a diversion: Food is often the main event of any holiday gathering, and that goes for unit parties too. But try to focus on the much-needed break and catching up with your coworkers – it’s really not just about the food.

If you’re interested in a nursing career at Baton Rouge General, visit brgeneral.org/careers to learn more.