How to eat healthy during the holidays

The holiday season is known for splurging on winter treats. Here are some tips you can try over the next few weeks to stick to your meal plan.

Holiday-proof your plan. Since you might not be in control of what food is offered during the season, create ways to stay aligned with your eating plan. Tips include eating close to normal times, offering to bring a healthy dish, cutting back on carbs during the meal to make space for a sweet treat, and avoid skipping meals to save your appetite. Overall, acknowledge there will be a slip up here and there and get right back into your plan for your next meal.

Outsmart the buffet. Buffets are common when it comes to the holidays. To stay on track, take a smaller plate and focus on your few favorite foods then sit down. Start your meal with vegetables to control your appetite and eat slowly so you know when you’re truly full.

Enjoy your favorite foods. Don’t get too wrapped up in your food plans that you forget to enjoy the holiday season. Plan ahead in order to fit in your favorite holiday foods. Cutting out the occasional treat allows you to enjoy a small serving of the sweets that you can’t get other times of the year.

Stay active. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, physical activity is often pushed to the bottom of the priority list. Being active can help your body recover from over-eating and it can reduce stress from the season. Encourage the whole family to go for a walk after the holiday meal.

Get some sleep. Your body can crave foods high in fats and sugars when sleep deprived. To prevent mindless or over-eating, aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

Stay hydrated. The high-energy of the holiday season can make it easy to forget to drink water and stay hydrated. While water is the best way to stay hydrated, learn more about the hydration benefits of other beverages.

Disclaimer: This information contained herein is for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice and if you have questions regarding a medical condition, regimen, or treatment you should always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider. Never disregard or delay seeking medical advice from a qualified medical professional because of information you have read herein. 

Sources:
“5 healthy eating tips for the holidays.” cdc.gov, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 14 December 2020
“Five healthy eating tips for the holidays.” usda.gov, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 29 July 2021
“Make better beverage choices.” myplate.gov, U.S. Department of Agriculture