Before you sit down to enjoy your holiday meals with your family this season, think about what is on the plate in front of you and how what you’re about to enjoy will impact your training and overall health. Everyone deserves to enjoy a few of their favorite things during the holidays, but MMA fighters have to be more cautious than most about what they choose to indulge in. Luckily, finding healthier alternatives for recipes and replacing old favorites with new versions means that you’re not skimping on flavor. Here are a few ways you can stay healthy and lean while enjoying holiday meals and treats. Are you searching for Raleigh MMA training this winter? Call Gracie Raleigh today! You’ll love our free martial arts classes.
Don’t Show Up Hungry
Contrary to popular belief, saving up calories for the big meal is a big mistake. Experts agree that having a small protein-packed breakfast can help you better manage your hunger before you arrive at the gathering. Keeping your appetite curbed with fiber and protein can help you make better choices when it comes to the foods and beverages you will enjoy. Choose to eat a bowl of whole grain cereal with low fat milk or an egg with a slice of whole wheat toast a few hours before you go to your holiday celebration.
Be Active
Eat less and exercise more to prevent weight gain during the holiday season. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the additional obligations to family and friends during the season and skip out on the time that you usually devote to working out or training. However, creating a calorie deficit through exercise allows you to enjoy your favorite foods. Lengthen your fitness routine when you are in the gym so that you can account for the time that you have missed because of the festivities. The day of the big meal, find ways to increase your caloric output before and after you eat. Take a walk after dinner or get outside for a game of touch football with your family.
Find Healthier Alternatives
Make your holiday favorites with fewer calories, less fat, and less sugar. Opt for making gravy with fat free chicken broth and use it for basting instead of full fat broth or butter. Reducing oil and butter throughout your holiday meal preparations can help you save valuable calories. Use plain yogurt or fat free sour cream to add a creamy texture to casseroles, mashed potatoes, and dips. When baking, substitute fruit purees or sugar substitutes into your recipes instead of sugar.
Reduce Your Alcohol Intake
Alcohol calories add up quickly and can leave you dehydrated. If you choose to have a drink or two or a glass of wine with dinner, make sure that you alternate your alcoholic beverages with water. Staying hydrated and limiting the calories you take in from alcohol will help you manage your weight and help keep you sober. Want to make sure you’re not tempted to overindulge this holiday season? Offer to be the designated driver for family and friends.
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Join us next time for more tips on enjoying your holidays the healthy way.