Scarsdale, New York (PRWEB) December 12, 2012
Thanksgiving is behind us, but for many, Turkey Day kicks off the start of what can turn into a multiple-month food binge if you’re not careful. Elizabeth Pecoraro, MS, RD, registered dietitian and HungerShield co-founder shares some key strategies to prevent holiday weight gain. “Trying to lose weight during this time of year is very difficult,” says Pecoraro. “Trying to maintain and not gain may be a more reasonable goal for the next few weeks, especially when surrounded by seasonal celebrations, cocktails and candies.”
In working with her patients, Pecoraro offers the following five ways to keep yourself in check this holiday season.
1) Stay satisfied with the right nutrients.
“There are many days between Thanksgiving and New Years, there is no reason to make this a 45-day ‘eat-fest,'” says Pecoraro. “Between celebrations, plan lower-calorie meals and snacks. And, to avoid showing up too hungry for festivities, grab a snack rich in protein and fiber before you go.” As an alternative, HungerShield was created by Pecoraro and three fellow RDs. “It is a great tool that you can easily keep with you on-the-go, says Pecoraro. “It will give you a quick boost of fiber, protein and probiotics to help control your appetite.” The HungerShield experts offer a range of tips, as well as balanced, low-calorie meal and snack ideas on their website.
2) Make your lists, check them twice.
This time of year, extra supermarket runs and displays of delicious, holiday-decorated treats are the norm. “This makes it even more important to plan your meals and snacks ahead of time and to stick to your shopping lists,” says Pecoraro. “For example, you may be tempted to pick up festively colored candies to add to the holiday spirit. Colored potpourri or fruit bowls can serve the same purpose and will save your waistline!”
3) Surprise the host.
Whether they ask or not, bringing a few reliable platters that are filled with lower calorie, healthier choices, and using them as a “home base” during the party may be an effective strategy. “I’ll often bring a large, delicious tossed salad,” says Pecoraro. “It allows me to line my plate with greens and helps me limit my portions of other more calorie dense options.” Other ideas include modifying a favorite holiday recipe with lower calorie ingredients, or putting together a creative crudit