December 11, 2013 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 17 Put a stop to the battle of the holiday bulge The holiday season is dominated by parties, family gatherings, and festive foods. Overindulgence in rich foods and drinks during the holiday season and cold weather, which can make it difficult to exercise, often lead to weight gain by January. Focusing on diet and exercise during the holiday season can help you avoid unwanted weight gain and provide more energy as the season progresses. The following are some effective ways to sail through the season without gaining weight. Don’t scrimp and sacrifice all the time. The body is a powerful machine, but it does not always work the way we want it to. According to nutritional experts, rather than metabolizing food on a daily basis, the body is geared to work over longer periods of time. That means it is possible to balance out a high-calorie day by eating less food and/or lighter fare on the days before and after. Fill up before going out. Those who are concerned about the high-calorie foods and drinks that are often served at parties and holiday gatherings may want to eat beforehand. Hunger can cause people to overeat and fill up on the wrong kinds of foods. Instead, eat a low-calo- rie snack that is high in protein and fiber before leaving the house. That should make it easier to avoid the chips and dips. Get plenty of sunshine when possible. Lack of sunlight can contribute to the winter blues, which may lead some people to rely on comfort foods. Such foods are typically rich in carbohydrates, fats, and sugars. Spending time outdoors in the sun each day is a mood booster. Pick the right mix of foods. Devote more space on the plate to lean proteins, such as roasted turkey or chicken or even lean ham. Devote much of the rest of the plate to roasted vegetables and whole grains. Take only small portions of high-fat foods like candied yams or bread stuffing to satisfy cravings without overdoing it. Skip the spirits for the most part. Alcoholic bever- ages are loaded with empty calories. Many people would rather reserve bonus calories for a piece of pie or a brownie. Those who drink can cut calories by sticking to a one drink per day limit. Exercise every day. When people are busy with holi- day tasks, it can be easy to push exercise aside, but a more sedentary lifestyle can trigger a slowing of the metabolism. That slow down can lead to weight gain. Aim for some sort of daily exercise, and try to park far- ther away from the stores or take the stairs instead of the escalator. Don’t relegate exercise to a New Year’s resolu- tion. Inactivity now will only bring harder work in the future to shed those unwanted holiday pounds. Weight gain may be just another part of the holiday season for many men and women. However, individuals who are concerned about adding extra pounds can stop the pattern of gaining weight during the holiday season by making smart choices throughout the season. Eyeglass wearers have more options Janet Kilroe, owner of Franklin Lakes Opticians, is excited about the enhancements that are now available for eyeglass wearers. “There are many options available today to enhance your vision through your eyeglasses,” Kilroe says. She points to products that include anti-reflective lenses and lenses that darken in the sun. “One reduces glare from computer screens and lights in night time driving, and the other darkens to cut down on bright light on sunny days. They can complement any pair of eyeglass lenses.” Kilroe adds that those who are in the market for sun- glasses should try polarized lenses, which she says offer the best protection from glare. “Unlike tinted lenses that just reduce light, a polar- ized lens reduces glare and enables you to see objects that may not otherwise be seen,” she explains. With the year coming to a close, Kilroe says this may be the best time to see your eye care professional and apply flex spending dollars or use insurance benefits. Franklin Lakes Opticians is located at 801 Franklin Avenue in Franklin Lakes and offers one-stop shopping convenience. Customers are able to schedule a compre- hensive eye examination, which is conducted on-site by an independent doctor of optometry, and get fitted with stylish new glasses at the same location. House/office calls can be arranged for clients who are unable to make it to the store for eyewear repairs due to vision difficul- ties. In addition, local deliveries for contact lens orders are available. Call (201) 848-1184 for additional information.