Health and Fitness Blog

pWith extra responsibilities looming over the holidays, it’s more important than ever to take an occasional break — and that doesn’t mean sitting in front of the television. Go for a walk around your neighborhood, bundle up and shoot hoops, or try volunteering at a local food bank to stock shelves./p

pHolidays can be stressful, prompting you to let down your guard and give in to poor eating choices. Make the extra effort to hold firm, whether that means packing yourself a healthy lunch before work or blocking out time on your calendar so you can visit the gym./p

pWhen you add more vegetables to your diet, you want the healthy veggie benefits — not the fat that comes from cooking them in butter. Make sure your vegetables are steamed or cooked in a modest amount of olive oil. Season to taste, but go easy on the butter./p

pWorried about weight gain over the holidays? Find some flattering photos of yourself and keep them handy throughout the season. Catching sight of a healthy, fit-looking you can serve as inspiration to beat holiday cravings and keep your weight in check./p

pHectic schedules and shorter days mean you may be leaving and arriving home in darkness. Make sure you take time to get a little sunlight during the day. Take a walk on your lunch break, attend a weekend sports game, or plan an off-season barbecue. Just remember that sunscreen is still important./p

pAs you prepare for your Thanksgiving meal, plan for a low-fat or crust-free pie. Choose pumpkin over pecan for fewer calories, and serve small slices (without the whipped cream) to enjoy your dessert without the guilt./p

pIf skiing’s not your thing — or the slopes aren’t yet open — try snowshoeing. Check your local park services to find a beginner’s group if you’re just starting out. Even a short hike can offer a great workout, plus you’ll have the chance to appreciate some winter scenery./p

pYou may be vigilant about cutting excess sugar from your diet, but don’t forget how many calories sneak into your meals through starchy foods like bread, pasta, potatoes, and rice. Make a shift away from simple-carbohydrate foods, especially when it comes to snacking./p

pEven if you’ve had a license for years, sign up for a defensive driving course. You’ll study strategies for keeping safe on the road, and learning to reduce road rage can cut down on your overall stress and improve your well being./p

pThat familiar can of tuna is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can promote better cardiovascular health. Use it for sandwiches or on top of salads and pasta — and don’t overlook fresh tuna, which can be grilled and enjoyed a variety of ways. If you’re expecting, just be sure to limit weekly consumption of light tuna to 12 ounces (6 if it’s white, or albacore) — to avoid overexposure to mercury. /p