The holidays are often filled with time-honored traditions that include some of our favorite meals and foods. Many of us find the time of family and celebration an excuse to indulge in those extra special treats, leading to an average weight gain of 5lbs. This doesn’t seem like much; however, research shows that we maintain that weight gain during the year without a significant loss.
This year UT/TSU Extension is putting forth the challenge to Maintain, Don’t Gain this holiday season. Those who register will receive a weekly email with valuable information ranging from nutrition, family activities, saving money and do-it-yourself projects. Participants will also qualify for prizes and free access to participating fitness centers.
The challenge started November 21, and run through January 9.
Register on-line at https://mdg21.questionpro.com
To avoid those extra five pounds during the holidays, follow these healthier options:
Be sure to include all of the food groups at your celebration
Make sure your protein is lean
Quench your thirst with low calorie options
Replace butter with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas in your recipes
Laugh, mingle, dance and play games
Make exercise a part of the fun
Enjoy leftovers
Spend time providing foods or preparing meals for those who may need a little help
By focusing on the celebration of friends and family and making small changes to your regular dishes, you can create a new holiday tradition of maintaining your weight and starting 2022 off with a healthier you!
UT Extension provides a gateway to the University of Tennessee as the outreach unit of the Institute of Agriculture. With an office in every Tennessee county, UT Extension delivers educational programs and research-based information to citizens throughout the state and provides equal opportunities in all programming and employment. In cooperation with Tennessee State University, UT Extension works with farmers, families, youth and communities to improve lives by addressing problems and issues at the local, state and national levels.
For more information on this or other family topics, contact Aneta Eichler, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent for UT Extension in Cheatham County. Aneta may be reached at 615-792-4420 or adodd2@utk.edu.
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