For many people, Labor Day Weekend is a time to celebrate friends, family, food and some of the very last warm days of summer. Whether you’re soaking up the sunshine, spending time outside the house or firing up the grill, there are plenty of ways for you to participate in the holiday weekend without sacrificing your health and progress.
Stay on Track During Labor Day Weekend with these Simple Tips:
- Plan ahead – Know where you’ll be spending the extended weekend so you know how to prepare for it. Make sure you have a lean, healthy snack before hosting or attending any social gathering so that you’ll be less likely to indulge and make poor food choices later on. For tips on snacking healthy, CLICK HERE.
- Bring your own food – If you’re attending a get-together where others are bringing food, consider bringing your own dish to add. For example, bring a platter of colorful roasted vegetables or a dip that’s low in fat and calories for fruits, veggies, etc .
- Don’t hover over the table – Many people end up standing and sitting around the table to snack while they socialize. Try to avoid lingering where the food is, and join the conversation and fun somewhere else.
- Limit your alcohol consumption – Alcoholic beverages can be loaded with calories. While it’s okay to indulge a little bit during the holiday weekend, be sure to monitor and set a limit on the amount of alcohol you’re drinking.
- Hydrate – Depending on where you live, temperatures may be cooling down – but it’s still important to stay hydrated! If water seems a bit too dull, try flavored infusers or flavored ice cubes to give it extra taste. Drinking plenty of water will also reduce hunger, give you energy and boost your metabolism. For more about the importance of water, CLICK HERE.
- Beware of the “extras” – These are your dips, snacks, condiments, etc. Dressings, barbecue sauces, spreads and all of those extra toppings can definitely pack on calories to any dish or meal.
- Get active – Instead of making food the center of your holiday, go out with some friends and family and get active together! You might try a short camping trip, a visit to the beach, a team sport or even kayaking. The holiday weekend is a great time for trying different activities!
- Enjoy the weekend – Remember to have fun! Celebrating the holiday is a great way to boost your happiness and catch a break from all of your hard work. Don’t be afraid to celebrate!
