By Celia Jackson
Nutrition Educator
A study conducted by National Institute of Child Health and Human Development shows that Americans gain about one pound during the winter holiday season, this is big differences from the previously belief of five to ten pounds. However, this does not mean we can have more to eat this Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday. A weight gain of one pound during the winter holiday season can accumulate and eventually lead to obesity. Remember, it is always easier to gain weight than to lose weight.
The average holiday dinner equals to about 3,000 calories and 230 grams of fat and this is only one trip to the dinner table. Therefore, if you eat twice on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day you have potentially consumed 6,000 calories and 460 grams of fat. To avoid consuming so many calories try some of these Holiday Survival Tips:
- Eat a light, healthy snack before dinner. This will help curb you hunger.
- Use smaller dishes to serve your dinner. This will help control portions.
- Limit alcohol and only drink diet sodas or water. This will help eliminate some calories.
- Try using healthier recipe substitutions, such as Splenda instead of regular sugar. (Healthy Ingredient Substitutions will be in next week tips)
- Remember to celebrate and focus on what the holidays are really about, spending time with family and friends.
* Sources: American Dietetic Association and National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
Contact Celia Jackson, MPA, LDN, RD, FF-NEWS Nutrition Educator, East Baton Rouge and East Feliciana Parishes, (225) 389-3055 or celia_jackson@suagcenter.com
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