New Orleans Coroner, Dr. Dwight McKenna, says it’s not unusual for people to gain
up to 5 to 7 pounds from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Dr. McKenna says
even if you gain one pound during the holiday season, the weight adds up and can
reach 10-20 pounds over a decade.

Dr. McKenna says it’s important to move in some way. Walking 7,000 steps per
day may slash mortality risk by 70%. The Coroner says, “Getting in more steps per day is simple
and easy. It’s an activity that most of the general population can pursue. It can
also be accumulated throughout daily living and may seem more achievable to fit
into busy lives than a structured exercise session.”

Even small incremental increases in steps per day are associated with a lower
mortality risk during middle age. A walking plan that gradually works up toward
7,000-10,000 steps per day in middle-aged adults may have health benefits and
lower the risk of premature mortality.

The holiday season can make keeping to a consistent workout routine difficult;
between the chilly temperatures, shorter daylight hours, travel to visit with family,
food-oriented gatherings and frantic shopping schedules, squeezing in physical
activity is tough. But staying active during the holidays can be easier and more fun
than you might think. Try to squeeze in a workout during the holidays that will
keep you active and even boost your holiday spirit.