How to tackle one of the biggest sources of holiday stress

The holidays are a wonderful time of the year. Unfortunately, the time period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s can also be stressful for some people. One of the biggest sources this holiday stress is weight gain.

It’s not unusual to pack on the pounds over the holidays. And with that weight gain comes guilt and stress. Fortunately, health and nutrition experts say there are some simple and effective ways to avoid stressing out about food this holiday season.

For starters, this is not the time to start a new diet. Instead, focus on maintaining your weight and making wise food and beverage choices. Don’t try to eliminate treats altogether, but at the next holiday party start with the veggie tray. Don’t eat foods you don’t enjoy or pressure yourself to clear your plate at a family dinner. And watch those high-calorie beverages, such as eggnog! You may be surprised by the fat and calorie content of your favorite drinks.

You may be tempted to skip a meal to save room for that amazing dinner buffet your friend has every year. Don’t do it! A better strategy: Eat a small nutritious meal before you go to an event that features high-calorie holiday foods.

And don’t forget: Exercise plays an important role in avoiding holiday weight gain and managing stress. If you have an exercise routine, keep up with it during the holidays. Don’t exercise regularly? Working even a 15-minute walk into your day can help you avoid packing on pounds and make you feel much better.