Staying healthy during the holidays

The holidays are coming up, and in less than a couple weeks, Frostburg students will be back home for Winter break. While it can be easy to let yourself go, divulging in tons of Christmas cookies and staying cuddled up on the couch watching movies for half the break, you will probably regret overeating and laziness if you end up gaining some unwanted weight. To avoid falling into an unhealthy routine this Winter break, consider following this guideline:

When it comes to meals:

• Use low-fat dairy products in cooking. Use skim milk and 2% cheese, and you’ll ditch some of the calories that the whole fat products have.

• Fill your plate up with more vegetables than carbs and meat. Fresh vegetables are preferable to canned ones.

• Stick with whole wheat/grains instead of white bread. Your body will thank you for the added fiber.

• Get a little of everything. You know, rather than a lot of everything. For a variety of nutrients and minerals, "eat your rainbow"/eat a variety of fruits and vegetables.

• Eat slowly! You’re probably ravenous from eating college food, but take this time to catch up with your family and friends. While you’re doing that, your brain will have time to catch up with your stomach.

• Reconsider seconds if you know you have had enough already. And definitely reconsider thirds.

• Watch your alcohol intake. This is less about meals and more about calories. Remember that many alcoholic drinks are packed with calories, so drink responsibly - and moderately.

When it comes to exercise:

• Get outside. Not everyone is a snow person, but you don’t necessarily have to play in it. Bundle up and go for a jog or long walk. Make sure you get at least half an hour of cardio every day.

• Join a gym. Some gyms have trial periods, which are perfect if you don’t want to commit to a certain number of months, or if you would have to pay a membership cessation fee.

• Watch workout videos. You can buy some, or just find someon YouTube.

• Develop a floor workout routine. Pushups, sit-ups, etc. can be done anywhere., and you’d be surprised the kind of exercises you can do in your home. Check out some other floor workouts here and here.

• Go shopping. Whether you’re buying anything or not, malls during the holidays can be a lot of fun, and they can be a good place to catch up with friends from back home.

There are plenty of things you can do to keep yourself in check this holiday break. A little laziness and splurging never hurt anyone, but make sure you don't develop an unhealthy routine that will be hard to kick once you get back to school. 

Happy holidays!