The holiday season is a time for celebrating, enjoying good food, and spending time with loved ones. With all the festive meals, treats, and snacks, it can be easy to go overboard. You can enjoy holiday food without overdoing it by making a few simple adjustments. Here’s how to eat mindfully during the holidays:
1. Stick to Your Routine
It’s easy to let your eating schedule slide with holiday parties and events. Sticking to your usual mealtimes helps maintain energy levels and keeps your blood sugar balanced. Aim to eat regularly so you’re not starving and tempted to overeat when you finally sit down for a holiday meal.
2. Plan Your Sweet Treats
The holidays are a time for treats, but planning ahead can help you enjoy them without going overboard. If you can’t wait for that slice of pie or a holiday cocktail, consider reducing your carb and/or sugar intake earlier in the day. By making small adjustments, you can enjoy your favorite foods while maintaining your healthy habits.
3. Control Portion Sizes
Holiday meals are often filled with rich, high-calorie dishes. As delicious as they are, practicing portion control is important. Rather than loading up your plate with everything, lean towards smaller servings of your favorite foods. This way, you can enjoy a little bit of everything.
4. Focus on Balance
Try to fill your plate with a good balance of protein, veggies, and whole grains before reaching for the sugary treats. Lean proteins like turkey, fish, and chicken, along with vegetables, will keep you satisfied longer and help prevent those sugar cravings.
5. Drink Water (Not Just Cocktails)
It’s easy to get caught up in holiday cocktails and sugary drinks, but staying hydrated is important. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider alternating between alcoholic/sugary beverages and water to pace yourself. Staying hydrated helps manage hunger and keeps you feeling your best.
6. Move After Eating
After enjoying a big meal, take a walk or engage in some light activity. It’s a great way to aid digestion and feel more energized for the next round of festivities. Plus, it’s a good opportunity to spend time with loved ones.
7. Enjoy Moderation
Remember that the holidays are about enjoyment. It’s okay to treat yourself to a holiday favorite in moderation. The key is balance: enjoy your favorites but make time for healthy choices. If you aim for balance 80% of the time, you can enjoy a treat without feeling guilty.