December Holidays: Avoid These Unhealthy Foods and Drinks
The holidays are approaching rapidly, and with them all kinds of delicious temptations. Grandma’s cookies, honey-glazed ham, egg nog — it’s hard to say no to all these yummy foods.
Did you know that…
- …people gain an average of 1.3 pounds over the holidays?
- …the average holiday meal contains about 3,000 calories?
- …46% of people spend 4+ hours on their feet cooking the meal?
- …our alcohol consumption increases by 36% in December?
But you don’t necessarily have to gain weight over the holidays. Avoid these foods if you want to cut down on calories:
- Egg nog (1 cup = 340 calories)
- Fruitcake (1 slice = 400 calories)
- Cookies (1 cookie = 100 calories)
- Glazed ham (1 serving = 650 calories)
- Mashed potatoes (1 serving = 350 calories)
- Gravy (100 ml = 100 calories)
- Candied yams (1 serving = 400 calories)
- Cranberry sauce (1 serving = 400 calories)
Are you planning a holiday meal for family and friends? Then try to use seasonal products. The following winter fruits and vegetables are in season in December:
- Kale
- Brussel sprouts
- (Sweet) potatoes
- Carrots
- Celery
- Lettuce
- Apples
- Pears
Good to know: If you can’t get certain fruits and vegetables fresh from the supermarket, then simply use frozen products. They still retain their vitamins.
Tip: How about working out before the big meal? A quick bodyweight training or a long walk can boost your metabolism.
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