4 Ways to Fight Holiday Weight Gain

You know the routine; the holidays approach and our best intentions - "I'll exercise everyday!" or "No processed foods or sugary sweets for me!" - fly out the window.

The New York Times says the average American gains 1 pound during the winter holiday season, but for many of us, that may seem a conservative estimate. It doesn't have to be that way!

Want to fight holiday weight gain and the reciprocal negative health effects? We've got 4 easy tips on how to keep off the extra pounds as you enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season.

1. Plan ahead - Got a full itinerary of holiday parties that you know will be filled with glorious dessert tables and free-flowing rivers of champagne? Before you head out to each event, picture yourself there and how you will interact with any temptation that will come your way. Come up with a plan to cope with multiple scenarios. It may be as simple as thinking "As soon as I walk in the door, I'll get a glass of sparkling water and a lime wedge so that I won't get off track by drinking all those cocktails." 
2. Keep track of your calories - Even if you don't "journal" your eating choices the rest of the year, by committing to logging everything you ingest at all of your holiday gatherings, you're more likely to skip that extra Christmas cookie or second dollop of mashed potatoes. 
3. Never go hungry - Before a big party or dinner event, eat a bowl of vegetable soup, an apple, or a handful of almonds. Showing up at a party famished can lead to overindulgence. 
4. Sneak in physical activity wherever you can - The holidays can be a stressful time for many, and exercise can help you to take care of your physical and mental health. Whether it's a 20-minute walk after dinner or a morning routine of yoga, treat yourself to some daily activity.