Over 80 percent of Americans will be over-eating this Thanksgiving and according to a local dietician, that could lead to some serious health problems down the road.
A recent study conducted by the U.S. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion discovered that the high percentage of the population that is overweight or obese suggests that it is mainly caused by overconsumption of food.
According to Maureen Lonati, Program Director for Medical Weight Loss by Healthogenics, over-eating can cause a slew of problems.
"Over-eating adds health risks; it could lead to high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea and also joint/muscle pains," she said. "So there are huge risks with your health when it comes to over-eating."
Lonati added that the main cause of over-eating is mainly due to an emotional-response; instead of actually being hungry, people eat to suppress an emotional reaction such as stress.
"Over-eating we've found, is predominately an emotional reaction to life and it's being aware of why you eat that's just as important as what you eat," she said. "So you need to understand the difference between a pang of physical hunger and emotional hunger if you're going to eliminate emotionally motivated eating disorders."
A couple of ways Lonati pointed out to save you some headaches from making the mistake of over-eating at your Thanksgiving gathering, is to start with something light such as soup or salad first.
"It's very important to start each meal with soup or salad, stay hydrated, don't go to any parties hungry and make sure you pack some healthy snacks to avoid temptation," she said. "Also avoid drinking too much alcohol."
Another hack she mentioned to keep you from reaching for another cookie is to wear tight, fitted clothing.
"Don't go to a party with sweats or loose fitted clothing. Definitely make sure that your clothing is fitted so you remain aware of making sure you don't 'hangover,'" Lonati said.
Ultimately, Lonati said only you can control your eating habits and determine when enough is enough.
Instead of over-indulging and risking your health for that second serving of mashed potatoes, she suggested you evaluate and start making healthy choices today instead of putting it off.
"A lot of people that I see say that they will just start after the holidays on January 1st, but instead of doing that, start today," she said. "Don't keep putting it off, there's no better time than today to start changing and making a better you."
So remember, while you are certainly allowed to enjoy this holiday season, maybe just think twice before visiting the dessert table for the second (or third) time in order to maintain and live out a healthy lifestyle.
As for those looking to make a lifestyle change, Medical Weight Loss by Healthogenics offers tailored meal plans, support, stabilization and maintenance programs, nutritional support, and coaching to help you reach your goals with offices all over Georgia, including a Gainesville location.
