The holidays are fast approaching, which means it’s time to formulate a plan “” for sticking to your healthy eating habits and protecting your waistline! Follow these seven easy tips to stay on track this holiday season:
- Eat before you go. Never show up at a holiday party hungry! Hunger can cloud your judgment when it comes to making healthy food choices. Eating a small, healthy meal or snack before you go will keep you from overindulging when faced with a spread of (mostly unhealthy) snacks, meats or desserts.
- Don’t be afraid to say no. Your co-worker may have stayed up all night baking that cake, but that doesn’t mean you’re obligated to eat a slice. If you’re being hounded (or downright harassed) by a friend or family member to eat, decline politely and don’t give in to guilt. Invent a food allergy if you have to: “I’d love to, but I’m allergic to red frosting.”
- Make substitutions. Baking and cooking are an important part of the holiday season for many people. Luckily, there are many substitutions you can make to “healthify” your favorite holiday recipes without sacrificing flavor. Try stevia in place of sugar, applesauce in place of oil, coconut oil in place of butter or yogurt in place of sour cream.
- Trim your portions. Stick to small plates if possible. If not, use only half of your plate ““ and fill it up with the healthiest foods first. Avoid saying “I can’t believe I just ate all of that,” by stopping when you’re 80% full.
- Don’t drink your calories. There are hundreds of extra calories hiding in alcoholic beverages and sodas. Sip a glass of red wine instead, or alternate between water and other drinks to keep yourself from overdoing it.
- Indulge! It’s okay to eat one of Grandma’s chocolate chip cookies ““ but the key here is “one.” Allowing yourself a small treat now and then can actually help you fight temptation and stay motivated to stick to your healthy eating plan.
- Engage in nourishing conversation. Enjoy your time by spending it with family and friends ““not hovering over the buffet. A great conversation can distract you from anything, even food!
Have you made a plan to eat healthy this holiday season? Share your tips here!