There are many forms of soy, including miso, tofu, whole soy beans, numerous dairy-comparable products such as milk, yogurt and cheese, and meat-alternative products. Healthy Food Secrets deems soy as a healthy food because of its many health benefits, including the promotion of a healthy heart and healthy bones, the prevention of cancer and the alleviation of menopausal symptoms.
Soy beans contain high amounts of protein, including essential amino acids, and soy beans are a great source of calcium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, B-vitamins, magnesium, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Instead of worrying about gaining weight during the holidays, push aside the visions of sugar plums dancing in your head and put your energy towards following these healthy secrets.
Be realistic. If you think you are going to try dieting during the holiday season or focus on weight loss, think again! You will most likely set yourself up for failure and will only torture yourself. Instead, try to simply maintain your current weight throughout the season.
Don’t miss the party, but… Eating is a big party of our holiday celebrations. So when you are heading out to a holiday party, make sure to never go to the event hungry. Before you leave, eat a healthy snack to avoid over-eating at the party. Healthy snack options include: yogurt, popcorn, nuts or fruits and veggies, such as apple slices, a banana or carrot sticks.
Eat small. Another way to control the amount you eat during the holidays is to eat small, lower-calorie meals during the day in order to offset your potentially large calorie intake at a holiday dinner or party. Tips for when you are at a holiday dinner: try to eat slowly and take a small plate of food. Taking a small first helping will help you to only consume a normal-size meal if the host expects you to take seconds. Also, taking small portions will allow you to be able to enjoy your favorite foods without overdoing it. And sometimes, that one small serving can help to satisfy a craving!
Keep it healthy. If you are invited to a holiday potluck, make sure to keep your contributing dish full of healthy foods. Consider bringing fresh fruits and veggies if possible. Likewise, if you host a party, be sure that leftovers make their way home with guests so that your temptations leave as well.
Socialize. Before, during and after a holiday event, make sure to keep moving. Don’t get too comfortable in the kitchen or next to the food table, which will most likely increase your urge to snack and eat more than you need. Another suggestion is to keep a beverage in hand so that you will not be as likely to grab more food.
Exercise! The main reason people gain weight during the holidays is a decrease in exercise. Without the maintenance of physical activity, you will burn fewer calories and most likely eat more. If you’re headed to the mall, take a few laps before you begin shopping. Or, find a parking space far from the mall entrance. Avoid the elevator; always take stairs. When at home, grab a relative and take a stroll around the block. At night, you could even make it a family adventure and check out the holiday lights and decorations in your neighborhood or one nearby!
By following these health secrets during the holiday season, you will be able to avoid packing on extra pounds, as well practice for that upcoming New Year’s resolution!
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