‘Tis the season for family, friends, and….food? The holidays are right around the corner, and soon you will be invited to those office parties, moms group parties, and family gatherings where you will undoubtedly be surrounded by foods that might not be the healthiest options. This time of year doesn’t have to be a time where you overindulge, though. You can still enjoy holiday food without going overboard. Here are 7 tips to help you get through the holidays while staying healthy!
Plan ahead! In general you usually know what foods will be on your family’s holiday table or at those holiday parties, so think about those foods ahead of time and know what you are going to choose to put on your plate. Think about what foods are important to you or have a special meaning attached to them, like your grandmother’s homemade macaroni and cheese or your mom’s famous chocolate pie. Choose those and pass on the rest! Another way to plan ahead is to eat a healthy snack before you go to the party so that you are not starving when you get there and end up hanging out by the appetizer table all night. I may or may not be speaking from experience!
Go with the small plate! Opt for the salad-size plate for meals, not the big one, and try to cover it mostly with fresh veggies or salads. Fill the rest of the plate with a lean protein and a couple of your favorite comfort foods. Don’t deprive yourself, but be smart about it. And if (when) you do choose to eat the sweet stuff, savor every single bite!! Take your time and truly enjoy it. I mean if you are going to indulge you might as well make it last as long as you can, right?!?!
Hydrate!! Staying hydrated can help curb your hunger. Many times when you think you are hungry you are actually thirsty. Try to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day. Keep a water bottle with you at all times, and that will help you remember to drink.
Use non-traditional ingredients! If you’re hosting and cooking for the family gathering or holiday party, try some different recipes. There are lots of good healthy recipes out there that use non-traditional ingredients, and your guests probably won’t even know the difference. Try this yummy brownie recipe that uses avocados and applesauce or these awesome chocolate chip peanut butter cookies that use chickpeas. If you’re not hosting, offer to bring a healthy dish.
Drink responsibly! Try to moderate your drinking during the holidays. Too much alcohol will slow down your metabolism and lower your inhibitions, which can lead to overeating. Try a wine spritzer instead of that margarita or beer, or avoid it all together and enjoy the time with your family!
