Pinellas Offers Tips To Avoid Tempting Holiday Treats

PINELLAS PARK, FL-Homemade pumpkin pie as well as all of those tempting holiday party hors d’ oeurvres can be difficult to resist. However, Gayle Guidash, assistant health director for the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County, said there are strategies you can use to maintain your weight while still enjoying holiday treats.

DOH-Pinellas is inviting residents to join its 2017 Eat Smart, Move More: Maintain, Don’t Gain Holiday Challenge. The challenge is a seven-week email-based campaign to help residents maintain their weight through the holiday season.

The average American gains 1 to 5 pounds each holiday season after indulging in holiday goodies. The campaign includes resources to avoid this traditional weight gain.

"The program is encouraging and a great source of information, tips and healthy recipes," Guidash said. "I have participated in the Holiday Challenge for two years and I have personally enjoyed every aspect of the program."

She added that there is no need to deny yourself during the holidays. With balance and moderation, Guidash said people can still enjoy holiday cookies, pies, candies and breads.

The campaign offers the following advice:

• Choose fresh fruit as a substitute for candy.
• Limit fats, salt and sugary foods.
• Find fun ways to stay active, such as dancing to your favorite holiday music or going for a brisk walk following holiday meals. Make it a goal to be active for at least 30 minutes a day.

This year’s challenge runs through Dec. 31.

It includes weekly newsletters delivered by email with tips on how to:

* Survive a holiday party;

* Manage holiday stress;

* Be a healthy host;

* Fit physical activity into your day;

* Prepare quick and healthy meals; and

* Serve healthy holiday recipes.

Last year, more than 13,500 people across the country participating in the Maintain, Don't Gain Holiday.

To register for the 2017 Eat Smart, Move More, Maintain, Don't Gain! Holiday Challenge, visit http://www.healthiestweightflorida.com/activities/holiday.html.

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