Don’t Let Stress Make You Fat!
Shannon Scott B.A., CHCC
Find out what's happening in Temeculawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Did you know that between Halloween and New Years the average person gains 2 to 7 pounds? It is no wonder so many people stress about food and weight during the holidays. Did you know that even without consuming extra calories over the next several weeks, stress alone can add fat to our waistlines? Why you ask? The answer is - The Stress Response. These sneaky chemical reactions are responsible for releasing excess cortisol and insulin levels, causing the body to lay down more fat. If you struggle from holiday weight gain, then here are three strategies to cut down on stress to keep the fat off.
Find out what's happening in Temeculawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Strategy # 1 – Have a Plan!
· Having a plan creates a change in brain chemistry; increasing dopamine, keeping you motivated.
· Taking as little as 10 minutes to write down a plan of action is all it takes.
· Know your personality. Do you have trigger foods that you need to avoid? Do you need to give yourself permission to enjoy one or two treats to keep feelings of deprivation at bay? Or do you need stay away from it all? We are all unique, so figure out what works for YOU!
Strategy # 2 – Eat Before You Go!
· Showing up to a holiday party on an empty stomach will definitely send even those with the greatest willpower on a devouring detour. When your body is ravenous for food it doesn’t care about making healthy choices, it just wants food.
· Planning a 300 calorie mini meal before you go, like a slice of high fiber toast with ¼ cup of cottage cheese and sliced tomatoes will keep your blood sugars even and your will power strong at the buffet table!
· Above all, you want stabilize your blood sugars to avoid over-eating.
Strategy # 3 – Get Your Head Out of the Sand!
· In other words, hold yourself accountable. Without accountability, we tend to stray off course.
· Find a system that will keep you in check. I recommend keeping a food diary and stepping on the scale every morning. This is great information/feedback to how things went the day before. If the scale changes, you know you need to make an adjustment.
· Buddy up with a friend or consider hiring a health coach. Finding someone who will check in with you and give guidance with healthy decision making is priceless!
Staying focused on the true meaning of the holidays rather than stressing about everything you need to do, is easier said than done. But with a little forethought and these 3 strategies, you are well on your way to having a calm and stress free holiday season without adding extra fat to your waist.
Shannon Scott, a certified holistic health coach and group fitness instructor, offers transformational nutrition coaching at The Studio, (Pilates, TRX, Yoga, Spinning) Temecula, CA, 951-303-9800.
