How to Eat Healthy Over the Holidays

There are many great things about the holidays not the least of which is the food! Pumpkin pie, gravy, sweets, treats and other goodies come out of hiding during this festive time of year. If you’re not careful you could join the vast majority of Americans who pack on some extra pounds between Halloween and new years eve. This year celebrate with intention and incorporate these easy tips and discover how to eat healthy over the holidays.

How to Eat Healthy Over the Holidays – 5 Tips

EAT SLOWLY

Put your fork down in between bites and take your time. Savor the good food and resist the urge to just “shovel it in”. Several studies cited by Forbes show that people who slowed their eating over time also lost weight over that same period. It’s thought that satiety hormones react more favorably resulting in a feeling of being full when food is consumed more slowly.

FOCUS ON FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONVERSATION RATHER THAN FOOD

focus on friends and family Unfortunately, food often becomes the focus of holiday gatherings. This year have an intentional mindset shift to spend more time focused on what’s important. Let the meal, snacks and beverages play second fiddle to family, friends and fun. You may find this leads to a more satisfying holiday without the “I ate too much” guilt that often follows.

FILL UP ON VEGGIES

When you have the chance load your plate with veggies and plant yourself next to the veggie platter at the holiday cocktail party. Veggies are good for you and because they are filling they’ll automatically reduce the amount of other things you eat.

One of the best things about Veggies is you can eat a lot of them without worrying! A word of caution if your eating raw veggies with dip, go easy on the dip!

What are the most filling veggies? According nutritiouslife.com they are:

Artichokes
Broccoli
Peas
Carrots
Sweet Potatoes

ENJOY YOUR FAVORITES (IN MODERATION)

It’s ok to enjoy your favorite holiday treats and you shouldn’t feel guilty about it, after all the holidays only come around once a year. The key is moderation and self-control. Try a little of this and a little of that but don’t load up on sugary treats and drinks. In the end you won’t feel guilty or deprived.

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

Being festive requires energy and one of the best ways to stay on top of your game is to drink plenty of water. Water also has the added benefit of helping you feel full (so you won’t eat or drink as much either). This year BYOW and bring your on water bottle to your next holiday party or gathering.

I hope you have a great holiday season and you find these tips helpful. Do you have a tip you’ve used to stay on track at a holiday gathering? Leave a comment below after all ’tis the season!

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