Christmas, Hanukkah and New Years are just around the corner. As we celebrate with family and friends, we’re also surrounded by mountains of delicious food. Chocolates, desserts, wine and large family dinners can make healthy eating over the holidays very tricky.
A 2018 study of 2,000 Americans found that 81 percent consider themselves to be health-conscious eaters, but despite their best intentions, all that goes out the window when the holidays approach. So this holiday season, use some of the tips below to stay a little healthier.
Keep moderation in mind
It’s easy to overindulge this time of year. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to. Being surrounded by festive treats, turkey and cake is a food lover’s paradise. But don’t stop yourself from enjoying good meals. After all, it is the holidays. Instead, eat in moderation. Second, third and fourth helpings should not be on the menu. Neither should excessively large servings of food. Eat well. But consume moderate amounts of food and drink.
Don’t skip meals to save up for a feast
You’ll only regret it later. Hunger turns into snacking which itself can be unhealthy. Most people will grab whatever is close by to get rid of the immediate craving for food.
- Eat meals at regular intervals with one or two snacks in between
- Eating moderate amounts of food at normal intervals keeps your blood sugar levels stable. You’re also less likely to snack on unhealthy items.
Make your own meals
Homemade is always best. Make sandwiches, wraps and tasty hor d’oeuvres. For snack ideas, think about
- Low-fat crisps
- Homemade soup
- Homemade desserts like fruit and low-calorie sugar bars
- Pita chips, shrimp, salsa
Wine, beer and spirits
A little known secret is that alcohol has more calories than most people realize. A single beer can set you back 170-300 calories. So during special events or get-togethers, set an alcohol limit for yourself. For example, a goal might be to limit yourself to a glass of wine alongside each meal.
- Don’t drink on an empty stomach
- Switch between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Pace Yourself. Setting a drinking goal helps with this
Eat your fruits and veggies
Most big meals are served with side dishes like salad, glazed carrots or spinach. Each time we see these items, we tend to avoid them. But this holiday, be different. Eat the fruits and veggies that are on offer. It’s a good chance to get in your daily requirement of fruit and veggies and balance out the less healthy items you’ll be eating.
Quick tips
- Invited to a party or potluck? Bring your own homemade healthy dish along.
- Avoid fizzy drinks and soda. Where possible, stick to water or fresh juice.
- Prepare your meals in advance.
- Pay attention to your portion sizes
We wish you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season!