The holiday season can be hard on our usual habits. There are more chances to socialize and with that comes more opportunities to eat rich food and indulge our taste buds. However, it doesn’t mean that all our good practices have to fall to the wayside, we can still enjoy the season and come out on track. Here are some suggestions to help see you through.
General Healthy Eating Guidelines for Every Day
- Eat when hungry
- Stop when satisfied (not full!)
- Eat slowly and savor your food
- Fill up on healthy foods – 80% of the time; they will keep you the most satisfied.
- If it isn’t delicious, is it worth eating?
- You don’t have to deprive yourself of the things you love, but you also don’t have to give yourself permission for an all-you-can-eat free-for-all!
- Keep your routine as much as possible
For the Holidays
- Remember that a single meal or holiday is just that, rather than a long stretch of meals or days.
- At social events, remember to enjoy the company as well as the food.
- Make food choices worth it! Serve yourself foods and beverages that are special and that you will enjoy
- Savor each bite and sip
- Think about balance rather than deprivation or feeling stuffed. Try to keep to one plate at each course. That way, you can enjoy your food without feeling like you’ve gone overboard.
- Bring a veggie or fruit dish to contribute, if possible.
- Create new traditions to celebrate the holidays that don’t just center around food, like watching a holiday movie, building a snowman, or volunteering.
Content submitted by Janyce Gately – MS, RD, LDN, CHWC
If you’d like more tips and support to stay on track during the holiday season, contact our Registered Dietitian, Janyce, at [email protected].
Take the guesswork out of healthy eating by working with a registered dietitian. Set realistic goals, create an action plan, get started off on the right foot and receive guidance along the way.