The holidays make our hearts full and, often, our stomachs fuller. The average American gains 1-5 pounds during the holiday season and keeps it, which adds up over time. Unhealthy weight gain can lead to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Related Links
One way to keep your health on track this season is to take the Maintain Don’t Gain Challenge, sponsored by wellness programs across the UC system. Find out what your location is doing to help you stay well this holiday season – and all year long.
From UCLA Health, here are some tips to keep healthy habits through the holidays:
- Prioritize healthy foods, such as vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats so you have less room for sweets.
- Exercise often, which not only combats weight gain, but also elevates mood and reduces holiday stress.
- Focus on small, achievable weight goals throughout the holiday season, rather than relying on a New Year’s resolution to counteract your holiday indulgences.