In this tough economy, at least we can be thankful for our health, and with the resources available at DayOne Health we can help make the holidays successful and nutritious! For those who are approaching their first holiday season after LAP-BAND® surgery, this time of year can be stressful when deciding how to stick to your bariatric diet while still enjoying those delicious holiday foods. Here are some helpful tips to help you maintain and stay on track with your weight loss goals this holiday season.

Be realistic with your weight loss goals

• Do not always try to lose weight over the holidays – focus more on maintaining your weight and making small healthy changes

Be active to maintain weight

• Keep up with your bariatric exercise regimen. Walk around the mall while carrying your shopping bags for extra calorie burning.

Make just one trip up to the food table

• Look through the food options and pick a couple of things that look best and only choose those foods to try. You do not need to try each food offered. Remember, you cannot each very much so be picky about the food you eat.

Choose lower calorie party foods

• Go more for vegetables and dip or shrimp and cocktail sauce instead of cheese cubes or fried options.

Consume a well balanced meal

• Aim for protein based meals. Don’t fill up on those empty calories.

Don’t socialize by the food table at a party

• Eat your meal and step away from the food – this will help you not graze throughout the whole party.

The most important thing to keep in mind over the holidays is not to deprive yourself of the foods you want to have to celebrate. Simply enjoy your holiday favorites just in smaller portions and consider it a treat!