Holiday Challenge: Maintain, don't gain weight

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County encourages everyone to include health in their holiday activities this year by joining the 2019 Maintain, Don’t Gain! Holiday Challenge (http://www.healthiestweightflorida.com/activities/holiday.html).

Many Americans gain between one and five pounds each holiday season. While it might not sound like much, most people never manage to lose those extra pounds. The Maintain, Don’t Gain! Holiday Challenge is a FREE seven-week, email-based campaign to help participants maintain their weight through the holiday season.

With balance and moderation, you can enjoy the holiday festivities and remain healthy! Choose fresh fruit as a substitute for candy. Limit fats, salt, and sugary foods. Find fun ways to stay active, such as dancing to your favorite holiday music or going for a brisk walk following holiday meals. Make it a goal to be active for at least 30 minutes a day.

Healthiest Weight Florida, in partnership with North Carolina State University, has been promoting and participating in the Maintain Don’t Gain Holiday Challenge for the past four years. Participants receive helpful advice on enjoying the holidays in a more healthy way.

The Challenge includes email tips on how to:

• Survive a holiday party;
• Manage holiday stress;
• Fit physical activity into your day;
• Prepare quick and healthy meals; and
• Serve healthy holiday recipes.

For more information and to register for the 2019 Maintain, Don’t Gain! Holiday Challenge visit http://www.healthiestweightflorida.com/activities/holiday.html.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.