When you are examining the food labels of products you consume, first check the serving sizes.  If your sports beverage is actually 2 serving sizes and there are 14g of sugar per serving you are actually downing 28g of sugar in one bottle.  This roughly equals 9 teaspoons or 3 tablespoons of sugar.

Chika Christenson, MS

Results Personal Training

chika@austinresultstraining.com

Does this apply to you for the holiday season:  stressed out, too many commitments, and of course being surrounded by tons of sweets?  Do you enter the New Year feeling sluggish, flabbier, and find it hard to get back into a routine?

Get a jump on those New Year’s resolutions by following these tips:

1)  Watch your sugar consumption.  I’m not saying not to have those occasional sweets, but don’t eat them all day. If you have a sweet tooth you don’t have to eat the entire dessert to feel sated.  For example, don’t eat the entire piece of pie, just eat half.

2)  Get up and move.  If you feel you don’t have the time to get to the gym, get up and walk on your 15 minute break, or when you get home, take a walk around the block with the dogs and or kids.  This is a great way to get the blood moving and stave off that fatigue from sitting all day. 

3)  If you’re not consuming enough fiber, increase your fiber intake by eating those raw fruits and veggies typically supplied at those Holiday get-togethers. 

4)  If you have a sweet dessert, make sure to also have a protein source so you’re processing the sugars more efficiently.  (nuts, peanut butter, organic Greek yogurt)

5)  If you’re getting that tired feeling at work, stand up and do some stretches.  Don’t chase the sugar crash with more sugar like sodas or more sweets.

A great way to start off those New Year’s Resolutions is to get a small jump on them this year.  Moderation is a great tool to keep off those holiday pounds.

Have a safe and stress free Holiday Season!

Chika Christenson and South Congress Athletic Club