Holidays are often a time of joy, celebration and indulgence. Food plays an important role in holiday celebrations, from festive dinners to sweet treats and family gatherings to office parties. It’s normal to enjoy special meals and seasonal treats, but many people feel sluggish or bloated after the holidays. You can enjoy the holidays while maintaining your health. Here are some practical tips that will help you feel better and eat healthier during the holidays without having to miss out on all the fun.
1. You shouldn’t skip meals before a big event
The most common mistake people make over the holidays is to skip meals in preparation for a big feast. This may seem like an easy way to “save” calories, but it can backfire. Skip meals and you may find yourself overeating later. Eat balanced meals that contain protein, fiber and healthy fats throughout the day to help stabilize your appetite.
2. Practice Mindful Eating
It is important to practice mindful eating, especially at holidays when there is an abundance of food and distractions everywhere. Slow down and enjoy every bite. Take note of how your food smells, tastes and feels. Avoid eating while you are watching TV or using your phone. You can eat the right amount of food and feel satisfied by listening to your body’s signals.
3. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy during the holidays to forget to drink water. With the cooler weather and busy schedules, it can be difficult to remember. Staying hydrated is important for digestion, energy and appetite control. We can mistake hunger for thirst, which leads to unwarranted snacking. Drink at least six to eight glasses of water per day and sip water before or during meals to feel refreshed and full.
4. Choose Your Indulgences Wisely
Enjoying the holidays is all about enjoying your favorite seasonal treats. Selective eating is better than trying to avoid all fatty foods. Select the desserts and dishes you love, and avoid the others. If you love pumpkin pie, but not cookies, then focus on enjoying the pie, and pass the rest politely. You can enjoy your treats without feeling overstuffed or deprived.
5. Start with Vegetables
Start your meal off with a large serving of vegetables. These fiber-rich foods, whether it is a salad, roasted vegetables, or a warm soup of vegetables, help you feel full and improve digestion. These foods are rich in fiber and add color to your plate. They make your meal healthier and more filling.
6. Keep an Eye on Your Portion
During the holidays, it is important to keep your portion control in check. It’s easy to overfill your plate or go back for more with so many tasty options. Use a smaller serving plate or take small portions of each food item to help manage your overeating. If you are still hungry, you can always eat more. But giving your body time for it to register fullness will help prevent overeating.
7. Don’t Let Guilt Rule Your Plate
The guilt that comes with holiday eating can be the most difficult part. You should enjoy food and indulgences won’t harm your health. Allow yourself to indulge in special treats, but don’t label them as “good” and “bad”. You can make better choices by letting go of guilt.
8. Keep Moving
You can feel better physically and mentally by engaging in physical activity during the holidays. You may not have the time to do your regular workouts. Instead, stay active by doing small things. Take a short walk after eating a large meal, dance during a party or perform a quick morning yoga session. Exercise improves digestion, increases energy and relieves stress during the holidays.
9. You don’t need to drink all your calories
Eggnogs, hot chocolates, cocktails and sweetened coffees are all high in sugar and calories. It’s fine to drink these drinks occasionally, but if you consume them in excess they can quickly add up. Limit sweet drinks, and replace them with herbal tea or water. Drinking alcohol is not a good idea. Instead, alternate it with water and stay hydrated.
10. Get Plenty of Rest
Don’t let the holidays make you sleep deprived. Lack of sleep can affect your mood, increase your appetite and cause sugar cravings. To regulate your hunger hormones, and to support your health overall during the holiday season, aim for 7-8 quality hours of sleep per night.
Conclusion
Eating healthy during the holidays does not mean you have to give up all of your favorite foods, or follow a strict diet. Balance, mindfulness and self-care are key. You can enjoy the holidays guilt-free and without discomfort by planning ahead, making mindful choices, treating yourself with kindness and being kind to yourself. These above tips will make you feel better, energized and able to truly enjoy the good food, company and holiday traditions.
