Healthy Holiday Eating Tips
When it comes to healthy eating during the holidays, I think the most important thing to remember is that all foods can fit into a healthy lifestyle. The holidays only happen once a year, so mindfully enjoy the foods you love and focus on friends and family!
Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the holidays while being mindful of your health.
Drink more water. This may be the easiest thing you can do for yourself, keep up your hydration! Try carrying a fun water bottle around, have a glass of water first thing in the morning and last thing before bed. If water is not your thing, try adding fruit or herbs, a few slices of citrus (lemon, lime, orange), pineapple slices, cucumber, basil, mint, or a combination. Herbal teas, unsweetened or lightly sweetened, and seltzer water are great choices.
Eat more vegetables and fruit. Make half your plate vegetables, and try eating your veggies first. Choose fruit as a dessert or snack. Both are high in fiber, which can help make you feel full, aide in digestion, and help to stabilize blood sugar levels. In addition to fiber, vegetables and fruit are packed with many important micronutrients.
Keep it balanced. Instead of mindless picking or grazing though out an event, aim for balance. Have some fiber, protein, starch, and fat to help you feel satisfied. If you are snacking on chips, add some hummus or guacamole, (protein, fiber and fat). If you are having pie or cookies, pair it with some milk (protein and fat) or fruit (fiber).
Keep moving. Even small movements and increases in activity through-out the day can have big health benefits. When holiday shopping, park farther away from the store and take the stairs whenever you can. Go for a walk after meals, get up a few minutes early, and try some gentle stretching or stretch a little before bed.
Eat what you really enjoy. Eat what you love, and limit the mindless snacking on foods that are not necessarily your favorites.
Eat before you go. Do not arrive at events and parties hungry, as it will make it hard to be mindful of your food choices. Instead, have a meal or light snack before you go.
Get your sleep. Sleep is vital to maintaining your health, energy levels, and sense of well-being.
Allow yourself to enjoy the holidays, and celebrate your successes.
Happy holidays and have a happy and healthy New Year!
Visit Healthy Kids in the Kitchen to learn more about cooking with your kids. Email jmasterson@wheelerclinic.org to register.
These classes are provided to the community free through the support of the Corsini and Brantner Families.
