For many people watching their diet, the holidays can be a very difficult time of the year. Although fears of gaining 10 to 15 pounds over the holidays may be slightly exaggerated (average weight gain is between one and five pounds), studies show that the holiday season has a disproportionate effect on health compared to the rest of the year. One major reason is that health changes occurring between Halloween and the Super Bowl in early January are often long lasting and not easily reversed. A second reason may be a willingness to indulge ourselves, and our families, more during the holidays; the typical Thanksgiving dinner has up to 3,450 calories, even though the most recent Department of Health and Human Services Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends between 2,000 and 3,000 for most people in an entire day. The bottom line is that we tend to get out of control during this time of year.
Setting goals and staying focused can help minimize any holiday weight gain.
Candy candy everywhere...here are some cool alternatives.
KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFER FROM FOOD POISONING Check your steps at FoodSafety.gov
As Thanksgiving approaches, cooking the traditional turkey dinner gives rise to anxieties and questions. What kind of turkey should I buy? Should I buy a frozen turkey or a fresh one? How do I store my turkey? A few simple steps will not only ease your holiday fears, but will ensure a delicious and a safe meal for you, your family, and your friends. The following information may help you prepare your special Thanksgiving meal and help you countdown to the holiday.
Simple and affordable recipes for you and your family to enjoy.
Resources for Using & Promoting this Easy Health Tool FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) has a wealth of educational materials that make it easy to understand and use the Nutrition Facts Label. Consumers, educators, teachers, dietitians and health professionals are invited to check out the many campaigns and printables available below.
Anyone eating on the run or at restaurants has probably noticed that food portions have gotten larger. Some portions are called "super size," while others have simply grown in size and provide enough food for at least two people. With this growth have come increases in waistlines and body weight. Super Tracker..Empty Calories Chart..Mixed Dishes Chart
Average portion sizes have grown so much over the past 20 years that sometimes the plate arrives and there's enough food for two or even three people on it. These growing portion sizes are changing what Americans think of as a "normal" portion at home, too. We call it portion distortion.