Whether you’re trying to lose or maintain your weight, stay ahead of health or digestive issues, or simply want to eat well, the holidays can be hard.
Here are five quick tips to help you stay on track with eating well during the holidays.
1) Eat before you go
This is similar to the old advice to never go grocery shopping hungry.
When you go to holiday parties and family gatherings hungry, it makes it so much easier to overdo it when you pass by that platter of fried chicken or honey-baked ham for the second time.
Have a small but satisfying meal made up of foods that nourish your body before you go anywhere where you know healthy options will be limited.
Related: Vegan Soul Food Recipes for the Holidays
2) Take a dish
When you’re invited somewhere where you know there will be little to no healthy options, offer to bring a dish.
Bring something that can be a standalone meal, or bring a few sides. This way you know there will be something you can eat without regret and help the host at the same time.
Be careful though – other guests may like your dish as much as or more than the usual fare. Make sure you move fast if you want seconds!
This is also a great way to get your friends and family to try food that is better for them. Once they find out how good it tastes they may be more willing to get on board with eating healthy during the holidays themselves.
3) Learn healthier substitutions
If you have favorite dishes that you miss during the holidays, figure out how to make them better for you.
Over the last few years, I’ve learned to make updated versions of my mom’s cornbread dressing, macaroni and cheese, and most recently, her sweet potato pie.
I can still have many of my favorite dishes, without feeling sluggish and foggy afterward.
As you stop missing your old favorite comfort foods, you become that much stronger in your new approach to food.
4) Always carry snacks
Inevitably, at some point, you’ll end up in a situation where you’re stuck somewhere with minimal options that work for you.
In that case, turn to your pocketbook for your emergency snack to hold you over until you can find a solution.
It sounds funny, but in a pinch, it’s a lifesaver.
5) Enjoy your food and your company
Seriously – taking the time to eat slowly and really enjoy every bite actually triggers your body’s satiety signals.
In other words, your brain has a better chance of getting the message that you’re satisfied before you’re uncomfortably stuffed.
Sharing memories, stories, and catching up with family and friends over a meal also helps you to slow down.
The holidays can be full of temptation and opportunity to go rogue with your eating habits. Follow these simple tips to enjoy a healthier holiday season with no regrets.
Photo by Ella Olsson
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