The holiday season is filled with joy, celebration, and, of course, indulgent foods. But with a little mindfulness and some smart strategies, you can enjoy all the festive flavors without derailing your health goals. From staying hydrated to practicing portion control and prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, there are plenty of ways to savor the season while maintaining balance. This holiday season, let’s focus on feeling good both inside and out—without missing out on the fun or the food!
1. Hydrate Throughout the Day: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help prevent overeating, as thirst is often mistaken for hunger. Starting each meal with a glass of water can also help control portion sizes.
2. Practice Portion Control for Indulgent Foods: Enjoy holiday treats in moderation without guilt by using smaller plates or serving sizes. This approach allows you to taste everything you want without feeling deprived or overindulging.
3. Prioritize Protein and Veggies First: Start meals with a good source of protein and plenty of veggies. They’re filling, support muscle, and help curb cravings for higher-calorie options that often come later in holiday meals.
4. Bring a Healthier Dish to Share: If you’re attending a holiday gathering, bring a nutritious option like a veggie platter with hummus or a lighter salad. This way, you’ll know there’s at least one option aligned with your goals.
5. Plan Your Indulgences: Decide ahead of time which holiday treats you want to enjoy, then stick to your plan. This lets you enjoy those foods without feeling like you’ve overdone them.
6. Eat Mindfully: Focus on eating slowly and savoring each bite. Mindful eating helps with portion control and ensures you enjoy each food, which can reduce the tendency to overeat.
7. Balance Alcohol with Water: Alcohol can add extra calories quickly, so set a limit for yourself, and alternate each drink with a glass of water. This not only reduces calorie intake but keeps you hydrated.
8. Watch the gravy: Stay mindful of the amount of gravy and sauces you use. These can have a lot of calories in a minimal volume.
9. Stay active: Go for a walk or play some football with family and friends to help to help burn calories.
10. Enjoy the holiday: While being health conscious is important, spending time with family and friends is just as important. Don’t let the anxiety surrounding eating ruin your fun! Just make sure you get back to more mindful practices as soon as possible.
If you’re looking to make this holiday season both enjoyable and balanced, but want some extra guidance or support in navigating food choices, feel free to reach out to Tammy. Our dietitians are here to help you create a personalized plan that works for you, ensuring you can savor the season without sacrificing your health goals. Whether you need advice on meal planning, mindful eating, or finding the right balance between indulgence and nourishment, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.