How to prevent Christmas weight gain

We all know the drill.
 Christmas vacays equal to an enormous yet inviting amount of food just lurking around the corner, waiting for you to give in those delicious temptations, while karma is silently judging us with that devilish Cheshire cat grin. It has a sadistic way of getting its revenge. Extra pounds, anyone?


While I'm legitimately writing this post next to a hot pepperoni pizza, I'll type down a list of things you can do to prevent that tedious holidays weight gain from happening to you.



1. Don't over indulge
That lasagna serving is just what you were waiting for while working on your abs at the gym. That's probably what makes it just soo yummy.
 It's okay to let it loose for a couple days... But don't let those couple days turn into a week, a month, a year!
 While all the Christmas food has a way of seeming more appealing -blame it on the merry atmosphere, blame it on the company you surround yourself with- you have to understand it's not just about eating.  Take those few days "off", but try to add on an extra work out in between Christmas and New Years' Eve.

2. Learn to say No
Being from a Southern Italian Family (latinos, anyone?), we all know that Christmas means having to visit every single one of your relatives. (them being at least 10 aunts and uncles) Vacations for us start on the 8th December and finish on the 6th January. It's a whole damn month.  Refusing to eat something they offer may as well get you disowned. Well, kind of dramatic, but you get the picture.
 Sometimes, though, you have to learn to say no. Think about yourself first.

2. Take long walks
It's not really about running like an athlete or training like a beast.
Sure, there are days when that sort of work out can make you feel on top of the world...But hey, guess what? It's all about balance.
 Don't punish yourself by hitting the gym (working out is not about punishment!!!) or going through killer cardio sessions. Very long brisk walks will do, and you will be more prone to repeat that sort of exercise the day after.

3. Steer clear from sugars!

You will want to reconsider having a third glass of super sugary Piña Colada or whatever the bartender/guest has to offer. Wouldn't you rather indulge on that chocolate cake?
 Again, remember... Balance.
Try to avoid whatever you think it's unnecessary.

4. Eat slowly
Not only will it trick your brain into thinking you're having a larger meal, but also you will learn to listen to what your body is trying to tell you. Watch what's in your plate! If there are many appetizers within your reach, fill your plate with what you want to eat, and stick with that. You will notice how much more food you tend to consume when you add it in your plate going by rounds.

5. Don't starve before the big meal
Try having more proteins, they will make you feel satisfied for a longer period of time. Don't skip meals, it will make you hungrier when it's time to eat and you will end up consuming whatever is within arms' reach.
 Hydrate. Sometimes all you need is a full -or several- glasses of (calorie free) water to help your body digest all that food.

6. Enjoy yourself
Lastly, know it's only going to be a few days. You're going to be fine if you are consistent in your healthy habits throughout this hectic month. And it's okay to take a breather.
 Merry Christmas with this first post ever on Belle Beauty!