The holiday time is here! ‘Tis the season for family, festivity, and FOOD- lots of food. Temptations are everywhere, and parties and travel disrupt daily routines…and it all goes on for weeks! So how do you stay on track when everyone around you seems to be splurging? You need a PLAN to stay on track. Here are 4 strategies for navigating a healthy and happy holiday season.
Strategy #1: Eat close to your usual times to help stay on schedule.
You can implement this tip by creating a plan. Try to keep to your regular schedule as much as possible. Now, this even goes beyond eating and into other routines, such as sleep and physical activity. You need to plan for some consistency during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
Strategy #2: Invited to a party? Offer to bring a healthy dish along.
Veggie platters are an easy and obvious option, but did you know that we have lots of healthy holiday side dish options that are sure to be a hit? Green Bean Casserole, Garlic Mashed Cauliflower, Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash, and Healthier Holiday Stuffing are some of our favorites!
Strategy #3: Don’t skip meals to save up for a feast.
Skipping meals will cause you to become overly hungry, and then more likely to overeat. When we surpass our hunger cues, we are more likely to surpass our fullness cues as well. The best strategy for attending a holiday feast is to make a plan for consistency with your eating routine.
Strategy #4: If you have a holiday treat, enjoy it and move on.
Who doesn’t love a treat? The holiday time can bring some delicious sweet treats, such as pies, cookies, candies, and cakes. The key here is simply not to overdo it. Decide which sweet treat you will enjoy- have it, and then move on (as challenging as that may be)!
Even though you may not be able to control what food you’re served, you CAN meet these potential challenges armed with a plan. Use these 4 strategies as your recipe for navigating a healthy holiday, no matter what’s cooking!
Are you looking for additional accountability and support over the holiday season? Apply for nutrition coaching today!
In Health,
Coach Christy
