Tis the season …

October onwards brings with it candy, cold weather, social gatherings, lack of time, stress, and lots of food! There is something about the beginning of Holiday season that reignites cravings for foods you could have cared less about a month back. Studies show that on average Americans gain anywhere from 1-10 lbs during the holidays, although this may sound modest, it is concerning because the weight gained tends to stick and accumulate over the years. Most people indulge over the holidays with the thought that they can "work it off" come the New Year. This is a misconception since the damage is already done, weight is gained and hormonal balance is disrupted possibly leading to other disease. So my advice is be prepared, mentally, physically and socially. Here are some tips that I digged up from various sources that I think will help:

1. Choose your indulgences wisely! Don't waste calories on so-so sweets or treats you aren't wild about or can get any time of year. But when it comes to Aunt Ida's Triple Threat Chocolate Fudge, dig in and enjoy.
2. Keep a food journal over the holidays: Write down what you eat to monitor your caloric intake. Research shows that people who keep a food diary consume 15% less food than those who don't!
3. Don't skip meals during the holidays to "save" calories: Skipping meals only leads to a slower metabolism and larger meals negating your intention to keep of the pounds.
4. Keep active and exercise over the holidays: Another cause of weight gain during the holiday season is less activity. Time is spent doing holiday errands, which makes us tired and less motivated.
5. Treat yourself and not use food as comfort: Scheduling difficulties, time restraints and last minute errands can make this season very stressful. As a result, it's important to take time for yourself. Schedule a massage, buy a new book or treat yourself to a yoga class. Find a non-food coping mechanism that will curb your stress. 
6. Keep only the good stuff around at ALL times. This is the time when being prepared is very important. Always have a balanced snack with you and try to eat a balanced meal prior to attending social gatherings where you know the buffet table and you will have stare down and most likely the table will win.

Remember it's about progress not perfection, don't make yourself wrong for having cravings or fulfilling them, you most likely are sticking to a healthy lifestyle 80 – 90% of the time so if you give in to a craving, savor it and when you are done get back on the plan.

For me this craving is pumpkin pie! I always forget how much I love it until October comes around and there are pumpkins everywhere! I was at the pumpkin festival this weekend hoping to fulfill my pie craving with the best slice of pie EVER; instead I was disappointed and tossed it. Here is my rule, if I am going to fall off the wagon and give in to my sweet tooth craving then it better be worth it. So I ended up getting a whole pie from Marie Calendars and am still indulging in it!

What's your holiday craving? How are you going to stick to the plan? Post to comments….

~Ritu