Healthy Holiday Eating Tips

By Rodney Perkins, Health Coordinator, EP Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

As you prepare to celebrate Christmas I would like to extend a few healthy holiday eating tips. Remember just take 3:

1) Moderation is KEY!

-Don’t go to the party hungry, grab breakfast or lunch to avoid overeating later

-Go for the small portions, this way you can sample different foods

-Drink plenty of water, alcohol and coffee can dehydrate your body

2) Limit HIGH FAT items

-FAT hides in fried chicken, cheese-filled and cream-based soup as well as processed meats

-Try low-fat or fat-free egg nog, traditional egg nog is made of egg yolk and thick cream

-Remember: Calories from alcohol tend to be stored in the abdomen

3) Get moving
     -Take nice brisk walks with loved ones and enjoy their company in the holiday season

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in the spirit of Phi Nu Pi. I lift a cup of joy and health to every brother here.

8 Tips for a Thinner Thanksgiving

By Rodney Perkins, Health Coordinator, EP Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Just a reminder to always put your health first, especially during holidays, here are just a few tips to KEEP YOU HEALTHY 4 Thanksgiving:

8 Tips for a Thinner Thanksgiving

1.     Get Active: Create a calorie deficit by exercising to burn off extra calories before you ever indulge in your favorite foods. “’Eat less and exercise more’ is the winning formula to prevent weight gain during the holidays”.

2.     Eat Breakfast: While you might think it makes sense to save up calories for the big meal, experts say eating a small meal in the morning can give you more control over your appetite. Start your day with a small but satisfying breakfast.

3.     Lighten Up: Whether you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner or bringing a few dishes to share, make your recipes healthier with less fat, sugar and calories.

4.     Police Your Portions: Thanksgiving tables are bountiful and beautiful displays of traditional family favorites. Before you fill your plate, survey the buffet table and decide what you are going to choose. Then select reasonable-sized portions of foods you cannot live without.

5.     Slowly Savor: Eating slowly, putting your fork down between bites, and tasting each mouthful is one of the easiest ways to enjoy your meal and feel satisfied with one plate full of food.

6.     Go Easy on the Alcohol: Don’t forget those alcohol calories can add up quickly! (especially, JACK, VODKA and Beer!)

7.     Be Realistic: The holiday season is a time for celebration. With busy schedules and so many extra temptations, this is a good time to strive for weight maintenance instead of weight loss.

8.     Focus on Family and Friends: Thanksgiving is not just about the delicious bounty of food. It’s a time to celebrate relationships with family and friends.

Best of the holiday season brothers, I lift the cup of joy and HEALTH!!!