Holiday Healthy Eating Tips

Be Strong and Conquer

Whichever holiday you celebrate the temptation of all the many comfort foods in a social environment can be exceptionally challenging. It’s hard to overcome period.

Whether it’s a whole foods diet, a low-calorie diet, or simply a low-fat and low-sugar diet that you’ve adopted, the holidays can cause serious problems for your waistline. But if you’re smart about it, you can get through the holidays without feeling the effects on your diet plan.

The good news is that we can incorporate just a few simple tricks and strategies to minimize the impact and stay fit and healthy!

Holiday Healthy Eating Tips

Don’t Fill Your Plate

I know it’s tempting, but let’s face it, once it’s on your plate you feel obligated to eat it all. As the expression goes, your appetite is often bigger than your stomach. Make a rule for yourself that you’ll take small portions, and not load up on the first trip to the buffet. If you can do this, you’ll save yourself a ton of calories in the end. And if you can, eat slowly!

Suppress Your Appetite

While we’re on the topic of appetite, one of the best ways to suppress crazy cravings or at least portion sizes is to have just half a banana. If you don’t believe me, I dare you to try it and then reach for that bigger than you would usually reach for piece of cake!

Keep Your Plate Balanced

Another good rule to follow is to always have a balanced plate. Even if it’s just a plate of appetizers, make sure you have a good balance of carbs, protein, and fruits and veggies. There are usually a few healthy food options at holiday parties, so make sure you grab a few.

Be Patient at the Buffet

Let someone else go first at the appetizer table, and I guarantee the food will lose its appeal by the time your turn comes around. Be patient, and be decisive. Make your choices wisely, and don’t go overboard on the unhealthy stuff.

Focus on Friends, Not Food

We often make the mistake of making the food and drink our priority at holiday parties. But if we can change our focus to good friends and good conversations, we’ll be less likely to spend all night stuffing our faces (which is hard to do when you’re busy talking).

Be a Gracious Guest

If you’re the first to help clean up, you’re the first to put down your fork and plate. And that can save you a ton of calories that you would have otherwise consumed sitting around all night.

Slow Down on the Drinks

Drinking alcohol is a sure path to overeating at social events. Once you’ve had a few, you’re going to lose all of your inhibitions when it comes to munching and eating. One trick is to mix your wine with a bit of club soda to stay sober longer. And be smart about your drink choices – 1 cup of eggnog alone contains 350 calories, and that’s before the rum!

Go for the Mints

When you think you’ve had enough to eat, pop a mint or a piece of gum. This is an easy way to curb any remaining cravings and prevent you from eating more. If you don’t have any mints on hand, grab a candy cane – it’s still better than all those fatty desserts!

Holiday Healthy Eating Tips – Conclusion

Those are pretty easy strategies, right? Give them a try at your next holiday party, and I guarantee you’ll be more successful with your healthy eating habits. But remember, a little indulging isn’t going to ruin all your hard work. Give yourself a bit of a break too!

Have any questions or feedback about these Holiday Healthy Eating Tips? Please leave a comment below…