5 Tips to Survive the Fat Season

By Dr. Matthew Anderson

Holiday season is fat season. Comfort food abounds and so does stress. It's a dangerous and fattening combination. Research shows that the average person gains a couple pounds this time of year. But with a few tough-minded guidelines, you will get through the next few weeks without having to go to a larger dress or pant size.

1. Do not try to lose weight during the holidays. Simply staying the same weight will be a great accomplishment.

2. Expect the Fat Season to be tough. Plan for it.

3. Find and use daily support for eating properly. Weight loss is best done with the help of a support system, particularly during a stressful time. If you attempt to go it alone you will probably fail.

4. Pay attention to emotional family issues. Holidays usually mean family and this means that any unresolved family issues will emerge and create strong emotions in you. Then you will eat to "kill" these emotions and get fatter. If you identify these issues prior to family gatherings you will be better prepared to manage the feelings they generate. If you simply walk into family gatherings unaware of the emotional land mines that cover the ground, you can count on having your diet plan blown to bits.

5. Tell family members that you are working hard to lose weight and that you want their cooperation. Ask them to provide alternative foods for you and to resist the urge to tempt you to eat fattening foods.