GROTON, Conn., Dec. 22, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A Groton chiropractor is helping area patients to watch their weight during the holiday season so they can get a head start on their New Year's resolutions. Dr. Joseph Mascaro of Advanced Back & Neck Care Center wants weight-conscious people to understand and avoid the potential pitfalls of this time of year. "A little mindfulness, along with some simple general wellness strategies, can help patients stay on track for their weight loss goals going into 2014. There is no reason that holiday parties and dinners must automatically derail goals for a leaner, healthier lifestyle," he says.

Dr. Mascaro describes obesity as a worsening health crisis, citing sedentary lifestyles, processed foods high in fats and sugars, and the reliance on fast food in today's hectic world as contributing factors. He warns that excess weight can lead to joint problems, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, stress on vital organs and an elevated cancer risk, among other serious health conditions. "Obesity is damaging to your health and has the potential to shorten your life span," he says. But while many of his patients have taken the initiative to lose weight through the clinic's weight loss programs, he notes that unhealthy foods, tendency toward overindulgence, and general lack of physical activity associated with the holidays can threaten even the most resolute dieters.

The chiropractor offers several suggestions to help individuals fight back against holiday temptations. "For starters, fill your plate with colorful vegetables and fiber-rich foods instead of starchy potatoes and stuffing. This will help you feel satisfied for longer periods of time while also satisfying the eye with the sight of a full plate," he says. Serving portions on smaller plates, he adds, enhances the illusion of overindulgence further.

Dr. Mascaro also recommends that holiday revelers set a limit on refills and allow at least 20 minutes for the body to signal a feeling of fullness. Since a healthy weight also depends on burning a sufficient number of daily calories, the practitioner urges individuals to get a certain amount of daily exercise even during their vacation time. "Exercise not only burns calories, but it also relieves stress that may accumulate during the holidays. Stress is a major trigger for self-destructive coping behaviors such as overeating," he explains.

For those who need help reaching and maintaining their new shape into the new year, Advanced Back & Neck Care Center offers the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method. According to Dr. Mascaro, this program boosts the metabolism while also stabilizing blood sugar levels to help prevent food cravings.

In addition to weight loss and nutritional programs, Advanced Back & Neck Care Center provides chiropractic adjustment, massage therapy, acupuncture and other natural healing techniques for Groton residents coping with injuries, illness or chronic pain.