Stay on track over the holidays

Well now that Halloween is over and we’re trying oh so hard to stay away from our kid’s candy bag (I know I am), what are we supposed to do when the biggest food fest i.e. Christmas comes to town? Instead of ignoring the holiday and pretending that we’ll take care of it when it comes, why not try to set up a plan of action?

The holidays must be the most challenging times for people, especially pregnant women and new moms when it comes to thinking about healthy habits and following through. This is a large reason why all the gyms are filled with people making new years’ resolutions to get rid of the holiday weight. And if you’re a new mom who is also trying to rid herself of baby weight, you’ve got an additional challenge on your hands. But if you had a plan, just like you plan your days when you’re at home with a new baby, you just may be surprised that you can enjoy the holidays and lose weight – who would have guessed?

Here are a few suggestions on ways that you can keep on track.

• If you are going out for a cocktail party, eat a healthy meal before you go. Don’t go hungry! This way you will be less likely to stuff yourself full of fatty, sugary appetizers.


• At dinner, don’t deny yourself. Have a little bit of everything so you are able to satisfy yourself. If you don’t, you’ll just end up going back later for a “taste” that’s usually more than that.


• Watch portion sizes. Half your plate should be vegetables, with a quarter protein (meat, fish, legumes etc) and the other quarter, starches (rice, potatoes, pasta)

Eat SLOWLY. Did you know it takes 20 minutes before your body realizes it is full? If you really take the time to chew and enjoy your food and sip in between, you will be surprised that you may not be able to finish your plate.

After meals, strap that baby on your chest or in the stroller and go for a power walk. Do this before all the blood rushes to your stomach and sleep sets in. On the other hand, try getting in a strength training workout using your baby as resistance before a meal. For example:

• Hold your baby while you perform squats and lunges.


• Lift your baby up and perform shoulder presses.


• Do push-ups over your baby and give them a kiss. (Otherwise known as “baby kisses”).


• Lie flat on your back and place baby on your shins and do reverse crunches.

Increasing your muscle mass actually allows you to burn more calories at rest – just what you need when you’re sitting on the couch after a turkey dinner! And if you find that you don’t have the time to do a full exercise routine all at once, try splitting it up into 3 or 4 10 minute sessions throughout the day. These short bursts of cardio and strength training will also enable you to get your metabolism moving and leave you feeling refreshed and good about yourself over the holiday season.