Healthy food choices are key to maintaining weight during the holidays
By Rhonda Moore Johnson, M.D., M.P.H.
Medical Director, Highmark Inc.
The sweltering days of summer have given way to the cool days of autumn. Before we know it, the holidays will be here. They certainly are a joyous time spent with family and friends at parties and special occasions. Unfortunately, that can lead to overeating and too little physical activity, and I think we all know what comes with that combination. That’s right – weight gain.
Being overweight or even obese are serious problems among African Americans. The Centers for Disease Control reports that 60 percent of African American men and 78 percent of African American women are overweight.
Overeating at the holidays just makes the problem worse. It’s estimated that the average American gains anywhere from one to three pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. While that doesn’t sound like much, it’s difficult for most people to lose that weight despite those New Year’s resolutions.
Being overweight increases the risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and even certain cancers. Obesity also can impact our quality of life and our self–esteem.
The keys to managing your weight during the holiday season are to make healthy food choices (see the list at the end of this article) and not overeat. Here are some suggestions to help you through the holiday season and the rest
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