It’s that time of year: Holiday office parties, Christmas dinners, sugar cookies and festive cocktails. Add to the mix a dose of holiday stress and there’s no wonder why most of the average American’s annual weight gain occurs between October and February.
Here are 5 tips to avoid excessive weight gain during this holiday season:
- De-stress. Holiday stress can raise cortisol levels, contributing to belly/visceral fat. Counter stress with the “Luckie 7″ breathing technique: Inhale to a count of 7, hold for a count of 7, exhale to a count of 7. Do this 7 times.
- Catch some Zzzzzzs. A lack of sleep can suppress leptin ( hormone that signals fullness) and heighten ghrelin ( hormone that signals hunger).The adverse effect on these hormones can contribute to overeating. Low quantity/quality sleep can also exacerbate the stress many of us feel this time of year. Attempt to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night to assist in keeping your appetite and stress in check.
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article courtesy of BlackDoctor.org
