TOP FIVE TIPS FOR GUILT-FREE HOLIDAY EATING
The Holiday’s are here! Here are my top five tips for guilt-free holiday eating!
1) Eat Breakfast
So many times I hear people say they won't eat breakfast to be able to eat more later - that statement couldn't be more wrong. When we don’t have breakfast, we eat too much at the next meal. We stuff ourselves and then potentially not feel too well after. Or we may end up eating all night long as our body is basically saying “hey you didn’t feed me earlier”, but what might be available later in the day might not be the best options. Breakfast is so important - it's the meal to jump start your day, no one wants “hangry” family members, and pending medications, or certain diseases like diabetes, breakfast is a must!
2) Increase Non-Starchy Vegetables
Non-starchy vegetables are packed with nutrients (vitamins and minerals) and fiber to help keep you full; they are also considered a “free food”. Try to continue to have half your plate be non-starchy vegetables. Looking for a snack to munch on? Hit up those non-starchy vegetables! Carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, peppers (and so many more) go great with dips! This could be an excellent item to bring to any get-together.
3) Increase Water
Many times when we feel hungry, we're actually dehydrated and thirsty. To help curb that hunger, make sure to drink plenty of water. Take a water bottle with you to family functions. Drink plenty of water throughout the day so you aren’t “playing catch up” once you’re already dehydrated. For those hot summer holidays, it is very important to remember to drink water to avoid heat-related illnesses (for more on heat-related illnesses click here) For every glass of alcohol, get a glass of water. Staying hydrated is so important!
4) Portion Control
All of the above tips help lead you to watch your portions! Small meals throughout the day and small portions with mindful eating will help you to get through these holidays! Aim to eat either a meal or snack every 3-4 hours. This keeps you from being starved going into your holiday party!
5) Increase Activity
It's important to enjoy your time with family and friends over the holidays. Try for some more active activities - go for a walk, hike, bike, or swim! Baseball, basketball, kickball, soccer - there are so many activities families can do! In winter walk to look at Holiday lights, snowshoeing if you have a lot of snow, ice skating, etc. Increasing your activity will also help throughout the holiday season.
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If you're trying to lose weight, think of just maintaining your weight throughout the holiday season to help lessen the pressure.
Mindful Eating
Really enjoy your food!!! These are meals that we may only get one or two times/year - enjoy your food!
Really taste the food, slowing down your eating. This is a time to enjoy wonderful food with family and friends!
Happy Holiday’s!!
