G.T. A Nutrition Tips

As the Holiday season quickly creeps upon us living in a big city like Toronto, during the Holidays can be hazardous to ones health. Faced with a lot of social Engagements, some hosted by yours truly, and others hosted by Friends Family and of course colleagues. It is indeed a wonderful time for me to socialize and catch up with loved ones, especially those I’ve not seen in a long time.

If you are anything like me, for most part the holiday season is more about food than anything else. I said it before and I say it again, there is no good gathering in my house without plenty of food to share, especially on the holiday season. So what is the problem with that you say? well for one thing as always there is just too plenty of food and Drinks to share. The problem then becomes the temptation to eat and drink the most. .

Decorated cookies, mashed potatoes, one social event after another one, these are some of my favorite holiday season meals. However at the risk of losing my waistline, I have committed myself to watching what I eat and and drink during the holiday season.

This is not particularly easy for me, it is not always easy to shift focus away from food to the things that really matter, but at the end of the day, nothing compares to looking and feeling good about myself. The idea is that if I can control my eating habits under such circumstances and presence of food, then chances are that the rest of my year will be a lot easier for me to manage nutritionally.

The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed by all, and as such, we should all enjoy the food and gathering. However during the holidays, I also want to minimize my food intake, watch my weight and waist line, and while at the same time maximize my social holiday plans. I’ve come to appreciate the value of a strategic eating plan for the Holiday season.

Am going to state five tips that have helped me through the temptations of the holiday season. Also note the beautiful holiday hummus recipe that is a hit at some of the holiday parties. Leave me a comment, send me an Email with your questions. I will be sure to answer you as soon as I can. Have a happy holiday and a happy new year.

TORONTO’S 5 HEALTH TIPS FOR A GUILT FREE HOLIDAY SEASON.

TIP #1: Feed your stomach before you go and party.

Eat a sensible meal before the party. This Tip comes from my mothers unwritten but well known rules. It is always a good idea to feed your gut before you departure for the social Event. Most of us will gain weight over the Holiday simply because we eat everything in sight. Having a full belly gives you less room to indulge on the food at the party.

TIP #2: Do not feast on the dessert, it is to be tasted only.

Eating sweets and savoring them is a tempting urge almost irresistible. You must resist at all costs. make the affair with sweets a one time one night experience. You are better off sampling a little bit of each but do not commit. Don’t give in and devour every bit of it. Look at desserts as something to savor, not something to fill up on.

TIP #3: Do not consume liquid calories.

Just be aware that drinking soft drinks and alcohol usually consists with drinking water spiked with lots of sugar. It is important to drink water as your body literally is mostly water. It is wise to note, drinking plenty of liquids however should not be mistaken for drinking sugar or alcohol.

Besides acting like a fool, Instead of worrying about my waist later, I do rather watch my drinks now. It is very easy to pack on the weight if the calories are coming from a cup of juice of alcohol laced with sugar. Drinking 2-3 cups water at the party may seem out of fashion, but a the flat stomach and good physique always is in style. Liquid calories keep you hungry and wanting more.

TIP #4: Serve your plate only once.

Going for seconds is a bad mistake, fill the plate once and don’t look back for second serving. A second serving is what will lead t a third and to finally giving in to your urges. Thank god I eat before I left my house. Now even though am tempted to go for seconds, my belly is for the most part full.

TIP #5: Share a healthy recipe at the social event.

I’ve always felt that a good party has the involvement of everyone invited, all guest should participate at my gatherings, so at my parties, I suggest B.Y.O.F event even if the party isn’t a potluck? – Instead of coming to the party empty handed or with the usual bottle of wine, I bring along my own food. I’ve discovered that most hosts appreciate a thoughtful guest especially a guest that brings in a healthy snack for all to enjoy.

Here it is: Bring this Hummus recipe to your next function.

BASIL AND SUN-DRIED TOMATO HUMMUS

Tastes awesome , the hummus has a Green and red tint to it. A pita bread, I prefer whole grain and or some fresh cut vegetables. This snack is a wonderful take to a party. Amount: 12 servings

Here’s what you need:

1 (15 oz) size garbanzo beans

1 tahini Tablespoon

olive oil 1 Tablespoon

One Tablespoon lemon juice

One water Tablespoon

2 garlic mashed cloves,

salt1/4 teaspoon

2 teaspoons soy sauce

sun-dried 4 tomatoes

cup basil leaves 1/4

Throw all the ingredients into a food processor and combine until smooth.

Nutritional Profile: One serving equals: 55 calories, 2g fat, 6g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, and 2g protein.

That’s it – all you need to know to not gain a single pound at holiday parties.

But what about the rest of the year?

Wouldn’t you love to make 2010 the year that you transform your body?

Let your friends compliment the new you, keep your health in check and gain some confidence , throw away your fat clothes. How would you like to be in a bathing suit by summer.?

Now It’s all more possible than ever.

However you have to take action now.

My guarantee is in my fitness programs, very efficient and result oriented.

You can get hold of me Call ( 416 ) 668-9993 or Email me info@stevenolema.com or stevenolema@gmail.

The new year is here. Get your spot now for the 2010 transformation.

Spread the word. Forward this Blog Post to your friends, family and coworkers. Hoping all is well and well is all. Cheers

You can find more Fitness and Nutrition tips at Eating Holiday Healthy Toronto or visit Toronto Personal Trainer Mr. Olema’s site www.StevenOlema.com.