Tis the season for family, festivity, and food – lots of food. Temptations are everywhere, and parties and travel disrupt daily routines.
Holidays are usually enjoyable. However unhealthy habits can be attached to parties and gatherings. Here are some tips to help you have a healthier holiday:
- Do not skip meals. Skipping a meal with the goal of saving calories prior to a holiday event can often backfire and lead to overeating due to ravenous feelings of hunger. Having a filling snack, such as cheese, vegetables, or a small handful of nuts can help to curb your appetite and prevent overeating.
- Contribute a healthy dish. Ensure at least one nutritious choice is available at potlucks by contributing healthy dishes.
- Choose your splurges. Scan the buffet or dinner table and choose a couple of holiday favorites to splurge on instead of foods that you can have any other day of the year.
- Think Color. Make a plate look festive by including fruits and vegetables. Aim to cover half the plate.
- Choose drinks wisely. Stick to calorie-free drinks, such as water, tea, or seltzer, instead of high-calorie festive drinks. Alcoholic beverages contribute empty calories and can cause you to make poor judgments with food. If you do choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation, and alternate each alcoholic drink with a glass of water.
- Visit the people, not the food. Move socializing away from the buffet or appetizer table to prevent mindless eating.
- Say no to food pushers (politely).
- Savor seasonal treats. Having treats once a year will not make or break your weight. Make sure you take time to really taste and enjoy that special treat when you have it.
- Eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. No one likes that unpleasant, stuffed feeling after a meal. Eat slowly and check your fullness levels while you are eating. Remember there are always leftovers!
- Do not feel guilty. If you did overindulge, do not beat yourself up. Just make sure your next meal is healthy and be sure to incorporate exercise into your routine.
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