LET THE HOLIDAYS BEGIN!!!

With Halloween behind us, Thanksgiving just around the corner and Christmas less than two months away, it is a great time to remind yourself about what your goals are and how you can fit your new lifestyle into the events of the coming months.

With the extra goodies that may lurking in your home or office, here are 5 tips and strategies to help you stay on track this holiday season...

1. Remember FOOD IS YOUR FUEL... that's it. Food is not your entertainment, your best friend or your comfort. Give your BODY what it NEEDS.. not what your MOUTH may WANT.
2. If you are invited to a party or event, be sure to eat BEFORE the party and drink lots of water. You don't want to head into a tempting situation with an empty stomach. Ideally, you should ask the hostess what types of refreshments will be served so you can plan ahead. If that is not a possibility, than choose veggies and protein. It's better to have a few extra calories that are "lean and green" than to have extra carbs.
3. Schedule at least 2 days this holiday season to eat "normal". If you PLAN ahead instead of IMPULSIVELY going off the program, it will likely make a difference in your ability get back on the program the next day and keep you from taking an entire weekend off the program. Also, keep a detailed journal on these days to help you be accountable for what you are eating.
4. Sometimes when we are in a group setting and choose not to eat the sweets, others may try to sabotage us. People might say... "One little bite won't matter!" or "Are you dieting again?" You can always use my favorite line... "I'm sorry, I'm allergic to sugar. It makes my behind swell." That usually lightens the mood and people tend to back off! : )
5. Make a list of 3 reasons why you are COMMITTED to a healthy lifestyle. What are the benefits for you personally to lose weight and keep it off? Keep that list in a vi sable spot .. in your car on the dashboard, on your bathroom mirror, or on your fridge!

I believe that the more you tell yourself that you CAN do something, you will empower yourself to actually do it. Remember I'm here to help you along your journey! You can do this!

Marti