6 tips to manage weight-gain during festivals

Festivals in India are as grand as they can be, late nights due to family get-togethers, early mornings for traditional rituals, and lots of scrumptious food. It is a complete package filled with fun and frolic. Engrossed in the jovial atmosphere, we often tend to overlook munching on the extra mithais. The festive weight is not a myth and here’s how you can control it. Celebrity fitness trainer Yasmin Karachiwala lists down tips on how to remain fit through the festive season and more importantly on how not to fall off the health wagon. (Image: istock)

It's never a good idea to attend a party on an empty stomach. You begin to experience anxiety and tension when you go longer than normal without eating. That's typically how binge eating begins. (Image: istock)

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To prevent overeating, pick a nutritious snack like handful of almonds that have satiating properties that promote feelings of fullness, which may keep hunger at bay between meals. Almonds are rich in Vitamin B2, Vitamin E, magnesium, and phosphorus, nutrients known for their role in energy release from food . Almonds can help lower the blood sugar impact of carbohydrate foods that they are eaten with, which affects fasting insulin levels . A study published by the researchers at the University of Leeds found that snacking on almonds mid-morning (compared to crackers with equivalent energy or water of equivalent weight) resulted in a lower overall hunger drive and suppressed unconscious desire to consume high-fat foods . As an alternative to chips and other calorie-dense snacks, you might choose quick and simple appetizers like sesame smoked almonds. You can also consume almond based dessert and use almonds for gifting during the festive season instead of other calorie-packed snacks. (Image: istock)

In India, a lot of people miss out on proteins as they do not consume any non-vegetarian foods during festivals. However, it is best to consume proteins through plant-based foods such as quinoa, beans, soybeans and nuts like Almonds. Almonds are a rich source of protein, a nutrient which is not only energy-yielding, but also known to contribute to growth and maintenance of muscle mass. They satisfy hunger and contribute to the nutritional requirement of the body. You can also provide additional choices, such as meals made with roasted or boiled meat and eggs. Foods like beans, lentils and nuts like almonds are rich in both proteins and fiber. Fiber is important as it helps induce fullness, thus keeping you from overeating. (Image: istock)

Rise and perform at least 30 minutes of exercise. Try to go for a quick walk, run, or perform easy stretches at home during the holiday season instead of trying to go to the gym or practice yoga. To avoid feeling lethargic from all the great food, it's crucial to keep your body moving. Additionally, it will keep up with your activity routine and aid in burning any additional calories you consume. With all the dance parties during festivals, moving a leg can also make a small difference. So hit the dance floor! Remember to munch on a pre-work out snack to get that much needed boost. Snacking smart with almonds is a small yet great change that can aid in leading a healthier lifestyle. (Image: istock)

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We get carried away to consume a lot of liquids in the festive season that may be high in calories. In the company of relatives and friends, we gorge on sodas, juices and shakes that contain high amounts of sugar and not to mention the empty calories resulting in weight gain. Thus, one must cut down on sugary, pre-packaged beverages. (Image: istock)

Finally, and most importantly, stay hydrated despite your busy schedule. We might end up drinking less water than normal because we are frequently on the go, visiting relatives and going to different gatherings. To stay hydrated, you ought to keep a bottle of water with you at all times. The acidity that is typically brought on by fried and oily foods can be reduced by drinking lots of water. (Image: istock)

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