5 Tips for How to Stick to Healthy Eating Habits During the Holidays
As the holidays approach, you may be thinking about how to stick with your healthy eating habits, even as there are more temptations and treats around. Here are 5 tips to help you make it through the holidays while staying true to your health goals.
1. Stay Consistent
When you know you will have a big dinner or you will be attending a holiday party with a lot of indulgent food options, stay consistent with your eating earlier in the day. Don’t skip breakfast in order to save calories for later – instead have a filling breakfast and lunch so you won’t arrive at your holiday event starving. This will help you stay in control when it comes time for the holiday meal.
Also try to stay consistent with your exercise routine. While it can be difficult to find the time during such a busy season, try to stay consistent with your exercise routine. If you can’t find time to make it to the gym or workout classes, instead take a walk outside for some daily movement.
2. Remember Your Two P’s
As you are deciding what to enjoy while at your holiday event, fill your plate with both protein and produce. These macronutrients will fill you up and therefore you will have less room to indulge. Once you have chosen your favorite proteins and produce, then have some fun and choose something you really enjoy!
3. The Alcohol Rule
It’s easy to get carried away with drinks while at a holiday gathering, and before you know it you have consumed a lot of sugar, and calories, from drinks alone. While it’s ok to enjoy a few drinks, try drinking a full glass of water in between each drink. This will slow down your alcohol and calorie consumption, while still allowing you to partake in the festivities! You will also stay hydrated and your body will thank you the next day.
When it comes to choosing your drink, keep these tips in mind:
1.Opt for low calorie options: Look for drinks that are lower in calories, such as light beer, vodka and soda water with lime, or a glass of wine.
2. Choose drinks with fewer ingredients: Some cocktails can be high in sugar and calories, so consider opting for a drink with fewer ingredients, such as a vodka and soda or a gin and tonic
3. Watch your portion sizes: It’s important to be mindful of how much you’re drinking, even if you’re choosing a lower calorie option. Stick to the recommended serving sizes to help reduce your risk of overconsumption.
4. Offer to Bring a Healthy Dish
If you are hosting you will have more control over the party menu and you can choose some lighter options. If you are attending an event as a guest, then offer to bring a healthy option to the party. Not only will it provide a healthier option for you to enjoy, but it can also be a refreshing change for others at the party who may be looking to balance out all the indulgent treats. Some ideas for healthy dishes to bring to a holiday party could include a colorful salad with a homemade vinaigrette, roasted vegetables with a variety of spices, or a grain bowl with a variety of toppings.
5. Practice Mindful Eating
The holidays only happen once a year, so when you are enjoying your holiday meals, truly enjoy them! Instead of restricting what you eat, enjoy a few of your favorites knowing you only get to have these dishes once a year. Savor each bite! And make sure to listen to your hunger and fullness cues so you know when to stop eating.
Holiday eating doesn’t have to mean your health goals have to go out the window. It’s entirely possible to enjoy all your favorite foods while losing weight; just make sure to keep these helpful tips in mind!
