It’s that time of the year again. With holidays just around the corner so are those winter pounds. Do you want to gain them? If your answer to that question was no, here are some ways to stay healthy throughout the holiday season from all places and traditions In Japan, Germany, and the United States.
Research shows that the average person gains 7 to 10 pounds over the course of the holidays, from Thanksgiving to New Years. Looking into weight gain from different areas, studies have also shown that Germany and Japan have similar problems with holiday weight gain. Although it is good to celebrate the holidays and have a fun time with your friends and family over food and drinks, here are a few popular food groups in Germany, Japan, and the United States you can replace for others for a healthier dinner in the upcoming holiday season.
Japan
A popular dish in Japan for Japanese holidays called: Takoyaki, which is a Japanese pancake with squid in the middle, which is served all over the country as a favorite dish. Instead of using all the full fatty ingredients in pancakes, this year, try using lighter milk and a substitute butter with Splenda sugar. Replacing these few ingredients will take off some extra calories without taking away your favorite food.
Germany
A popular German Christmas eve favorite is potato salad. This potato salad can also be prepared with substitute ingredients, helping those few extra pounds stay away this year. Making the potato salad without mayonnaise will make a large difference in the fat that your body is absorbing. In addition to this trick, instead of using real bacon, try the use of turkey bacon, a healthier and leaner option.
United States
The favorite for many in the United States is the undeniably delicious Honey baked ham. Instead of glazing your ham this year in heavy ingredients, try cutting the amount in half for ingredients that include pineapple juice, orange juice, and brown sugar. Indulging in only half of the amounts of added sugar and more of the protein from the ham itself will help you feel better this season.
Always remember that along with pairing your recipes this year with smarter ingredients, exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes a day will help you maintain that weight this year and feel better about all the delicious foods you have yet to enjoy.
