All right! You’ve been making some amazing changes to your eating habits this year and you want to be able to continue those through the holiday season. Have no fear! Part of the reason we feel out of control over the holidays is the feeling of missing out until we “get” to have those holiday items again next year.
Right?
Right!
But you still want to enjoy yourself in the festive season, which is anchored by – yep – lots of phenomenal food.
No worries. I’ve got you.
Here are seven simple tips to follow this year to maintain your balanced diet over the next few weeks.
- Plan Like a Pro. Map out the next few weeks – travel, family meals, work events, etc. Anticipate how each might affect your eating, and then make plans accordingly. For instance – if you’re going to be driving for a few hours, pack a healthy lunch so you’re not stuck with random fast food.
- Embrace a Variety on Ordinary Days. Prioritize whole foods rich in nutrients, like fruits, vegetables, satiating carbs, fats and lean proteins. A month of rockstar eating will absorb a bit of festive fun.
- Do the Same on Big Days. For the grander feasts, or even smaller parties, use smaller plates and load up with the healthy choices first. Aunt Martha’s famous dessert is also on the plate but in a smaller portion so you can enjoy a little bit of everything without being over full.
- Keep Drinking… Water, that is! It’s the secret weapon that it’s too easy to forget in December. Even when you get busy with shopping and socializing, and the temps are cooler, remember to hydrate. It’ll keep you feeling full and lessen the effects of too much sugar or alcohol.
- Pay Attention. Throughout the season, don’t consume meals while watching TV or scrolling Facebook. Chew slowly. Enjoy the food. Stop when you’re 80% full.
- Snack Smartly. Avoid the “skip meals” trap. It’ll just make you hungrier later. Keep a healthy snack handy so you don’t get stuck with no good options.
- Remember the Big Picture. Your healthy habits are built to carry you through an occasional party that creates a bit of over eating. Choose those items you just can’t resist and make them more often through the year. Then the temptation to eat all of it while you have the chance is diminished.
As we wind down this year, I want you to look back at the holidays with a huge smile, not a twinge of regret. With your nutrition game on point, you’ll strut into 2024 feeling fabulous!
