Most events seem to be centered around food during the holiday season. Although we lead busy lives all year long, our schedules get overloaded from Halloween to New Years day. Along with the parties and social events that are part of this festive season, comes an abundance of food – food everywhere! And many of the foods at this time of year are not nutritionally dense fruits and veggies that are loaded with vitamins and minerals (and very few calories). Instead, we encounter fat- and sugary-laden treats and desserts or high calorie casseroles and fried appetizers. The truth is, that if you can continue to make good food choices during the holidays, you will not gain weight during this busy time of year.
Tips and Tricks for Eating Well During the Holidays
Eat What You Like, But Watch Your Portions
Eating what you like is “key” to feeling satisfied during the holidays. If you look forward to Aunt Ethel’s rainbow cookies or Cousin Anthony’s lasagna, you should eat these foods, and enjoy them.
- Eat and enjoy those holiday classic foods with portion control in mind.
- Be mindful and aware of what you are eating – as you’re eating your favorite food, savor the moment.
- Load up the rest of your plate with lean protein (fish, chicken or turkey) and lots of veggies. That way you’ll be less tempted to eat too much of the calorically dense holiday treats.
Stay Physically Active
There are times when we might not be able to go to the gym. But you should continue to be physically active. Exercise reduces stress and burns calories.
- Look at your weekly schedule, and plan to fit in physical activity.
- Make an appointment with yourself to walk, take a bike ride or walk your dog a few extra times around the block.
- Wear a pedometer (available at most sporting good stores for about $20) – you can see how many steps you are taking – and try increasing your number each day.
Don’t be disappointed if you can’t get to the gym on a regular basis over the holidays. Be flexible and keep moving!
Have a Plan
Try to find out what is being served before you attend a holiday function. By knowing what is available, you can plan what you are going to select before you arrive. It’s a great idea to eat a healthy snack (for example a hand full of unsalted almonds or an apple) before you arrive at a party or social event. It will take the edge off your hunger, and allow you to make better decisions.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water will help you keep hydrated. Try to drink between 48-64 ounces of water everyday. Drinking water at parties will also help you drink less alcohol.
Keep Your Main Focus On Family And Friends, Not Food
Although being with family can be stressful, try to enjoy the moment instead of focusing on food. Remember there are alternatives to food when you are stressed out – walk around the block or up and down a set of stairs instead of overeating. Celebrate your accomplishments, and enjoy the company of family and friends.
Have a wonderful holiday season. I want to wish everyone a happy and healthy 2012. May the upcoming year bring us all peace and joy. How are you celebrating the holidays? Please share your thoughts.
Sometimes I find it so difficult to drink just plain water. I was never a coffee or hot tea drinker (I am actually a recovering diet iced tea addict!). But I know that drinking water is a very big part of my overall health, so it became very important to me to put down the iced tea and pick up the glass of water. A number of studies have shown that drinking water raises metabolic rate and therefore helps with weight control. Water is a great thirst quencher which will keep you well hydrated. After all, our bodies are made up primarily of water.
