How to Survive the Holiday Season

During the holiday season eating a healthy and balanced diet can seem almost impossible to many bariatric patients.

We’re here to help!

Follow these tips to help you stay on track during the next couple of months.

Plan Ahead: If you are not the host, call ahead and ask what is being served. You may need to plan ahead and take something that you can eat. Take one of your favorite dishes, and print and share the recipe!

Don’t go hungry: DO NOT go to an event hungry…or starving! This could cause you to overeat. Also, skipping meals is NOT suggested. When you starve yourself all day in preparation for a party by the time it starts you’re so hungry that it’s hard to control your portions. Instead, eat regularly throughout the day, and then have a small snack before leaving for a party. When you’re full, you will be less likely to overeat.

Enjoy in moderation: The more you deprive yourself, the more you may over indulge. Treat yourself to your favorite holiday dishes, but practice portion control and savor every bite.

Eat slowly: This will help you to avoid overeating. Trust your body, it will tell you when it is full!

Stay away from the buffet: Prepare your plate and move on. You’ll be glad you did. Enjoy the party and focus on socializing with friends and family.

EXERCISE: Don’t use the holidays as an excuse to skip out on exercising. Try to maintain some type of exercise, even if it isn’t your normal routine. Ask family or friends to participate in an outdoor game; take a brisk walk; or try parking your car farther away from the mall, grocery store or your office to help you get more exercise in.

Don’t drink your calories: Drink water or a low calorie or low sugar drink. Sip throughout the party to keep you both full and away from the snacks!

Set a goal: Set a realistic goal to maintain your current weight. You’ve come far from that initial gastric bypass, gastric sleeve or gastric band surgery!

A slip is not a Failure: Remember that a slip is not a failure. If you overindulge, don’t beat yourself up. Quickly move on and avoid repeating it.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – go enjoy yourself, you deserve it!