Chocolate pecan pie! Sweet potato casserole! Sausage and herb stuffing! Honey baked ham! The holiday season is around the corner with lots of celebrations including mouthwatering food and enjoyable company. Staying healthy during the holidays may be a challenge, however by planning and setting realistic goals, healthy holiday eating is possible. Many, fear the possibility of gaining a few extra pounds during the happiest season of the year, but with these healthy holiday tips, you can navigate the holiday season like a pro without missing out on the festive fun. Make Your Own Goodies: if you are attending a pot-luck holiday dinner, bring your own healthy dish. Make your own gluten free cauliflower stuffing, vegan pumpkin pie, or vegetable side dish if you want healthier food options. This will give you the chance to stay on track and have a balanced meal. Choose Wisely: When you are surrounded by delicious food, it may be tempting to eat everything! However, before you pick up a plate, take a lap around the dinner table and see the various options. This way you can select the foods you really enjoy and not go overboard. Portion Control: Holiday dinners mostly consist of buffet or family-style meals with the opportunity to go back for second helpings, however, eat in moderation. Chances are you are not starving after eating various appetizers like cheese and crackers with wine. Therefore, if you start with small portions of mashed potatoes and turkey, you are probably going to be satisfied with the last bite, while allowing yourself to leave room for a slice of pumpkin pie. Learn how you can portion control in advance of your big holiday meal. Morning Workout: A great way to kick off your day is with a morning workout. When exercising early in the day, you have already burned calories which will prevent cravings and binging on all the yummy sweets. Keep your fitness goals in mind and don’t abandon your workout routine due to the holidays. This way you can still choose to eat some holiday treats without feeling guilty. Eat Mindfully: Enjoy your meal thoroughly, but also stop when you are full. It is easy to get caught up stuffing your face with your mom’s delicious sweet potato dish, however, take some breaks between your meal by setting the utensil down. If you want a slice of pie, eat it slowly so your body is able to recognize when it is full and not overindulge. What are your tips for staying healthy during the holidays? Share them with us on our Facebook or Instagram page.
