The holidays are here. And pandemic or not, everyone is looking forward to the holiday treats, no doubt.
Around this time, folks are sure to add a few pounds to their weight. While this isn’t really that big a deal, if you’re not careful with what and how much you eat, you might end up with more than just belly issues but might entail a trip to the gastroenterologist, too.
This is why it is recommended that you still do your best to eat healthily during the holiday season to avoid tummy problems and not acquire too many fats.
Here are the most common reasons why your tummy accumulates excess fats:
Sleep deprivation
Overconsumption of alcohol
Lack of physical activity
Not enough protein in the diet
Too much sugar consumption
Eating too many fatty foods
Late-night snacking
On top of eating healthily, exercising regularly, and getting good quality sleep daily, here are a few other ways to help you avoid the accumulation of excess fats in your belly.
1. Get a smaller plate
The key to keeping your waistline from increasing in size this season is portion control. And one of the best ways to ensure this is by choosing to eat from a smaller plate.
2. Don’t starve yourself before going to a holiday gathering
If you go to a party starving, chances are you won’t get to eat immediately, so you will end up snacking on overly indulgent appetizers. Eat a full and hearty protein-packed breakfast and lunch and snack on something healthy before leaving for the party.
3. Stay on your feet after a meal
It may be tempting to crash into a couch after a fully satisfying meal but hold off for a few minutes. Stay on your feet first. Help the host clean up or walk around the neighborhood with the others for a few minutes. It might not be a full-blown workout but doing so will prevent you from feeling bloated and sluggish.
4. Be mindful of your coffee and soda intake
Go easy on your stomach by minimizing — if not eliminating — caffeine and carbonated drinks this season. Caffeine can cause indigestion and diarrhea, especially if taken on an empty stomach. Soda, on the other hand, can give you gas, bloating, and heartburn. Fizzy drinks are best taken earlier in the day and not before bedtime to prevent GI issues.
5. Look for healthy ways to de-stress
it is no secret that the most wonderful time of the year can also be the most stressful time of the year for many folks. And most folks, when stressed, turn to food and drinks for comfort. Instead of eating and drinking your stress away, look for other productive and healthier ways to de-stress and relax, such as engaging in a hobby or dancing.
6. Serve rich foods on special occasions only
Sure, a slice of pumpkin pie or a piece of turkey drumstick on Thanksgiving is okay, but it’s a completely different thing if you eat like that the entire season. Besides adding inches to your waistline, it is unhealthy, too. Do your best to eat healthily on regular days and leave the special sumptuous treats for special occasions and when you have guests over.
7. Watch out for dairy overconsumption
Generally, dairy is okay and even healthy, provided you stick to the recommended daily allowance. However, the holidays bring many dairy-filled treats that are also not okay if you consume too much. Even if you’re not lactose intolerant, it is best to limit your daily dairy intake for a healthier tummy.
This holiday season, take better care of your tummy and yourself so that you don’t compromise your
health. It is still possible to enjoy the celebrations and stay healthy.
