Healthier Holiday Eating
We can’t always eat perfectly during the Holidays. But THAT IS OKAY! We can however, take a few steps towards eating slightly healthier and “lighter.” Here are some tips for eating a little bit better during this wonderful time of year.
1. Don’t Skip Meals
Try to keep your normal routine. Eating breakfast and lunch prior to a Holiday Dinner, can keep you focused on making better choices and can help prevent overeating later. We all know what happens when we are ravenous just in time for Thanksgiving Dinner. Our eyes are bigger than our stomachs and we eat more than planned.
Check Steph out on the Local 44 Morning Brew show and get inspired for a new tradition for your Thanksgiving!
2. Hydrate: Be Careful not to drink all of your calories
Avoid drinking your calories. Save those calories for all of that delicious food you’ll be eating. And don’t forget to drink water, especially if you are drinking alcohol. Be sure to alternate with a glass of water or seltzer to keep you feeling hydrated all night long.
3. Lighten Up Your Meals
If you are making a cream sauce, consider replacing some cream with 2% milk and adding cornstarch to thicken it up. Be aware of all the additives to your dishes: sauces, whipped cream, nuts, and syrups. Calories can add up quickly.
4. BYOV: Bring Your Own Veggies
You know there will be a protein option and plenty of carbohydrate choices during a Holiday meal, so be sure to get your veggies by bringing your own (to share with others of course). The veggies I am talking about her are the non-starchy ones like leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, green beans, and broccoli. Try to eat at least one cup of these at your meal to fill you up without providing too many calories.
5. Be Mindful
It’s okay to indulge during the Holiday season, but be aware of each bite. Enjoy it. Savor it. Avoid eating just for the sake of it. Ask yourself if you are hungry or if these calories are worth it. If the answer is yes, then go ahead and treat yourself but be mindful doing so.
6. Keep Busy and Dress Well
Keep a drink in your dominant hand. By keeping your hand busy, you won’t be as tempted to grab from open trays or buffets. And dress up! By dressing up, you might find that you aren’t as apt to over eat because you’re feeling good with your look.
7. Take Your Time
There’s point in being the first to finish your meal. Take your time while eating. Enjoy the environment and the social aspect of the meal. This goes along with being mindful as well.
8. Be Picky with Your Food
Only eat what you like. Scan all of the food options and choose foods that you love. Skip the everyday dishes that are available all year long and savor your Holiday favorites.
9. Stop the “Tomorrow” Dialogue
Yes, there is always tomorrow, but why start tomorrow when you can start today. Even if you completely let all thoughts of healthy eating out the window at your holiday brunch, that doesn’t mean the day is ruined. Get back on track at the next meal!
10. Be Kind to Yourself
You are not a bad person because you ate an unhealthy food. The Holidays are only here once a year and it is okay to indulge. So treat yourself while also trying to make as many healthy choices as you can. Avoid negative self talk or “all-or-nothing” thinking.