Researchers have found that many Americans gain 5 to 10 pounds from Halloween to the New Year each year. Palm Springs ZUMBA Gold/Toning dance class at the Palm Springs Leisure Center just returned from their second annual cruise, and a few gained 2 to 5 pounds.
This weight gain is do to over-indulging in foods; eating rich, high caloric foods; drinking speciality drinks like egg nog which punches in with a whopping 343 calories in an 8 oz. glass; add another 64 calories for each shot of alcohol, and decreasing or cutting out their exercise program. Numerous Americans decide to diet and start their exercise regimen in the new year.
What the Palm Springs ZUMBA Gold/Toning dance class members gained in the week on the cruise, they took off in a week. They got right back into their exercise routine: dancing ZUMBA, hiking, and walking.They also ate healthier and limited high caloric, rich foods. One healthy food that they eat is the Hearty Healthy Spicy Soup. The more they eat, the more they lose.
One of the best ways to maintain weight during the holiday season is to eat fresh, vegetable soup between festive times. Eat a hearty bowl before leaving for dinner party. You will eat less if not famished. This vegetable soup is hearty, comforting, and warm. Eat at least one cup a day, preferably two; one at lunch and one at dinner.
Hearty Healthy Spicy Soup
Ingredients
6 cups Water
2 Tablespoons Bernard Jensen's Vegetable seasoning
1 teaspoon Turmeric (optional)
1 inch fresh Ginger (Peel and cut into thin pieces) (optional)
1 inch fresh Jalapeno Pepper (cut into thin pieces) (optional)
2 cups diced green cabbage
3 sliced carrots
3 sliced celery stalks
1 cup green beans
1/2 cup diced onion
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 cup cilantro
Directions
In large soup pot, bring water, vegetable seasoning, turmeric, ginger, and Jalapeno to a boil. Add cabbage, carrots, celery, beans, onion, and basil; bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer covered for 20 minutes. Top with cilantro.
Vegetables will remain crunchy and not overcooked. The ginger, jalepeno pepper, and turmeric makes the soup spicy and flavorful.
While at parties, dinners, and other gatherings, it is wise to alternate each drink with an 8 oz. glass of water. You will also eat less.
Remember you are going to these events to socialize. Focus on conversations and not food. Share stories of good times.