The holiday season is a time for family, fun, and—let’s face it—feasting! While it’s normal to indulge in festive treats, it’s also common to gain a few pounds. But don’t worry! With a bit of planning, you can fully enjoy the season without compromising your health goals. Here are ten actionable tips to help you maintain your weight this holiday season and stay on track.
1. Consider Weight Loss Support like Ozempic and Wegovy
If you’ve struggled with weight loss, especially during high-stress or high-calorie times like the holidays, medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may provide extra support. These treatments, both of which are GLP-1 receptor agonists, work by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) that the body naturally releases after eating. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar levels and can reduce hunger by slowing down gastric emptying, which prolongs the feeling of fullness after a meal.
Ozempic and Wegovy also work on areas of the brain involved in appetite control, helping reduce cravings and the urge to snack. This combined effect—slower digestion and appetite suppression—can make it easier to manage portion sizes, avoid high-calorie treats, and resist overindulging during holiday feasts.
2. Plan Ahead for Social Gatherings
Holiday parties often come with tables of delicious (but calorie-dense) foods. Planning ahead can help you make healthier choices. Have a small, nutritious meal before going to prevent overeating, or bring a healthy dish that you can enjoy without guilt.
3. Prioritize Protein
Foods high in protein can keep you full longer and reduce cravings for sugary snacks. Try to include a lean protein source with each meal, whether it’s turkey, eggs, tofu, or beans. Protein-packed meals can help stabilize your blood sugar and prevent those post-meal sugar crashes that lead to cravings.
4. Be Mindful of Liquid Calories
Holiday beverages can add up quickly, from eggnog and mulled wine to sugary coffee drinks. These beverages are often loaded with hidden calories. Opt for lower-calorie options like sparkling water, herbal teas, or a simple glass of wine without added sugar. Being mindful of what you drink can save you hundreds of calories!
5. Practice Portion Control
It’s easy to go back for seconds (or thirds) when surrounded by tasty food, but practicing portion control can make a big difference. Try using a smaller plate to avoid overloading and give yourself a few moments before deciding on a second serving. By savoring each bite, you can enjoy the meal without overindulging.
6. Stay Active
Amid holiday festivities, sticking to an exercise routine can be challenging, but it’s a key part of maintaining your weight. Even small bursts of activity, like a 20-minute walk after a meal, can aid digestion and help burn calories. Incorporate fun family activities like ice skating or a holiday hike to make exercise feel like part of the celebration.
7. Focus on Fiber
Fiber is filling and supports healthy digestion, which is especially helpful during heavy holiday meals. Load up on fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. These foods can help you feel full longer, preventing overindulgence on sweets and snacks.
8. Get Plenty of Sleep
The holiday season can disrupt regular sleep patterns, but poor sleep can lead to increased hunger and cravings for sugary, high-calorie foods. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep your hormones balanced and energy levels high.
9. Watch Out for Sneaky Sugars
Holiday treats are often loaded with added sugars that can spike your blood sugar, leading to hunger shortly afterward. Keep an eye on your sugar intake by enjoying sweets in moderation, and try to limit sauces, dressings, and snacks with added sugars.
10. Manage Stress
Holiday stress can lead to emotional eating, especially with sugary comfort foods. Take time for self-care activities such as deep breathing exercises, journaling, or spending time with loved ones. Managing stress can keep you in control and help you stick to healthier choices.
Get Support for Your Weight Loss Journey
If you’re looking for more structured support to maintain your weight during the holidays, Boston Direct Health offers weight loss management services to the greater Boston area. Our team can guide you with treatment options like Ozempic and Wegovy, personalized nutrition advice, and lifestyle support tailored to your goals.
Call us at 617-304-1965 or fill out the form below to request an appointment.
