This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Week Three • During the holidays, the office becomes a wonderland of sugary, high-fat foods and treats. "The candy jars are filled, the cookie plates circulate and the potlucks begin," explains Jonnell Masson, a registered dietitian with Harmons Grocery stores. "No wonder that it is so hard to maintain your weight over the holidays." Here are six ways to survive the office temptations:
Don't skip meals • It is easier to resist temptation if you are full.
Have a plan • Decide in advance how many treats to allow yourself each week. On days when you choose to eat a treat, limit it to one cookie, a small piece of cake or another small portion. Then adjust your eating for the rest of the day to allow for these extra calories.
Just say no • Don't worry about hurting someone's feelings. It's not rude or impolite to say "no thank you" when offered a cookie or piece of candy.
Be the oasis • Avoid having candy or cookies on your desk. Research shows that you are likely to eat more if the food is out on your desk. If you feel the need to have something, choose a low-calorie option such as a bowl of clementines.
Find alternatives • Keep healthy snacks in your desk drawer so that when temptation strikes, you have an alternative. Sugar-free gum, nuts, dried fruit, whole fruit, dry cereal or whole-grain crackers and individual portions of almond butter are great options.
Potluck survival • If you must have an office potluck, bring a low-calorie alternative such as a vegetable or fruit tray. Then limit yourself to one plate of food. Fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, and if you want some of the high-calorie options, choose small portions. —
Sugarplum Challenge
The holiday season — and the onslaught of unhealthy snacks and treats — is now in full swing, and it's not too late to pre-empt the inevitable holiday weight gain by taking The Salt Lake Tribune's Sugarplum Challenge.
Step on the scales today and record your weight. Then for the next four weeks, follow our expert tips for avoiding fatty foods, keeping up your exercise routine and strengthening your willpower. The point of the challenge is not to lose weight during the holiday — 'cause that's not gonna happen — but to maintain your current weight through Jan. 1.
Let us know how you're doing. Email your success stories and your struggles to features@sltrib.com. Together, we'll get through the holidays happier and healthier.