Holiday Eating Tips

We often hear “I can’t believe it’s time for _______ holiday already.”  And there’s truth to that, because there always seems to be a holiday coming.  But with a little planning, we can manage holidays without completely falling off the rails in terms of eating and nutrition.  Just because all of the delicious foods and snacks are going to be calling our names, we still have control over what and how much we eat – also how active we stay over the holidays.

A good goal to keep in mind is “aim to maintain.” This is not the time to “go on a diet” or try to lose weight; this is a time to enjoy our family and friends – and the deliciousness that will be at all the holiday functions we attend. 

One trick is to make sure we don’t go to any of these functions on an empty stomach because it’s too easy to overeat when we are hungry.  If you have a dinner to attend, try to have a small healthy snack beforehand so you aren’t so hungry that you have more to eat than you planned.

If you are going to a holiday potluck, make sure you take a healthy dish so you know at least one of your options will fit nicely into your routine.  

How about those holiday buffets?  Again, have a snack before you go, but when you get there, peruse the buffet before you take any food – choose the dishes you only have once or twice a year and enjoy them.  Remember you can have mashed potatoes any day of the year.  Also, sit as far away from the buffet as you can – that way you will think twice before getting up and going back to fill your dish.  And if you really are still hungry, try to choose the healthier foods for your second round. 

Don’t forget how important it is to stay active – don't eat and collapse on the couch for the rest of the day. After eating, rest your belly, then go out for a nice walk.  Not only will that help with weight management, but it is also great for mental health!

Remember, the holidays are usually just a day or two at a time.  Be sure to enjoy those days, but don’t extend the extra treats and helpings beyond that. 

So whatever holiday you have coming up, may it be enjoyable and healthy!