The holiday season often brings a whirlwind of festivities, family gatherings, and, of course, an abundance of delicious but not always nutritious treats. While it can be tempting to overindulge in all of the amazing holiday dishes that are in your presence during the holidays, maintaining a balance between enjoying the celebrations and sticking to a healthy routine is key. We’ll explore some practical tips and tricks to help you savor the season without gaining extra weight during the holidays.
Mindful Eating During Celebrations
The holiday table is usually filled with delicious and calorie-dense dishes along with tempting desserts. However, instead of indulging in everything without a second thought, it is important to practice mindful eating. This means taking small portions, enjoying the flavors of each bite, and paying attention to your body’s signals of fullness. By adopting this approach, you can relish the delicious food without overindulging and hurting your health.
Strategic Snacking
With numerous holiday parties, snacking can become a daunting task. It is advisable to choose healthier alternatives such as fresh fruit, vegetables with hummus, or a handful of nuts. It’s a good idea to have a nutritious snack before attending gatherings to curb your appetite, preventing you from overindulging in less healthy options.
Stay Hydrated
During the holidays, water can be your best ally. It not only helps keep you hydrated but also aids in controlling your appetite. Start your day off right with a glass of water and continue to sip on water throughout the day. If you plan on attending parties, try alternating between alcoholic beverages and water to reduce calorie intake.
Include Colorful Options
Aim to include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your meals. These will provide you with essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs. You can experiment with different salads, roasted vegetables, and fruit platters to add both flavor and nutrition to your holiday meals.
Get Moving
It’s important to stay active during the holiday season, regardless of how busy you are. Whether you opt for a brisk walk, a home workout, or a dance session, try to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Not only does it help burn calories, but it also boosts your mood. So, don’t let the holiday hustle and bustle stop you from keeping your body moving!
Healthier Holiday Hacks
Consider making healthier ingredient substitutions in your holiday recipes. Small modifications using whole grains and leaner protein sources can significantly improve the nutritional content of your meals.
As the holiday season approaches, it is important to remember that eating healthy does not mean depriving yourself. Instead, it is about making conscious choices that align with your well-being. By incorporating the above tips into your festive routine, you can enjoy the holidays without feeling guilty and keep those extra holiday pounds away.
GYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch wishes you and your family a happy, healthy, and joyful holiday season!
