Healthy Holidays
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from your Parish Nurse or Health Minister |
The holiday season is a time to celebrate with family and friends. It is easy to get overwhelmed this time of year, as demands of work and family life merge. According to Dr. Rodgers of the National Institutes of Health, the holidays are not the time to abandon physical activity and eating a balanced diet. Overindulgence just adds to stress and guilt, and holiday eating can result in an extra pound or two every year.
Tips for Healthy Holidays
- Prepare a healthy version of a traditional recipe for any holiday gathering.
- Eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. Savor your favorite holiday treats while eating small portions.
- If you overeat at one meal, go light on the next. It takes 500 calories per day above your normal calorie intake to gain one pound. It is impossible to gain weight from one piece of pie.
- Be careful with beverages. Holiday beverage favorites can be full of sugar and calories.
- Breathe. 3 deep breathes, released slowly, is energizing and calms your nerves.
- Recharge your battery. Whether it is exercise, meditation or a brief walk around the office, find a way to distress when tensions rise during the holidays.
Focus on a healthy balance of food, activity, and fun this holiday season.
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“You are my Lord, my goodness is nothing apart from you.”---Psalm 16:2 |