It’s official – we are heading into the holiday season! It’s a time for celebration, family, friends, and of course, food. From festive dinners to sweet treats, it’s easy to get caught up in indulgence and leave healthy habits behind. But the holidays don’t have to mean abandoning your health goals. With a little intention and some smart strategies, you can enjoy the season’s flavors without overdoing it.
Savor Every Bite
Be present and mindful while enjoying your food. Instead of mindlessly nibbling, pay attention to the flavors, textures, and aromas. Eating slowly can help you feel more satisfied and less likely to overeat.
Balance Your Plate
Include nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables and lean proteins. Then, add smaller portions of indulgent dishes or treats.
Healthier Versions of Holiday Favorites
There are plenty of ways to enjoy holiday classics in a healthier way.
- Mashed Potatoes: Swap out butter or sour cream for Greek yogurt or olive oil for a creamy texture with less fat.
- Instead of buttery casseroles, try roasting vegetables like sweet potatoes with cinnamon and nutmeg, or cooking Brussels sprouts in a slow cooker.
- Enjoy festive mocktails! You can still have a fancy drink in your hand! Try this Warming Milk Punch, Christmas Mocktail: Cider Sangria, or Simple Holiday Mocktail.
Stay Active
Go for a walk after dinner, play a game of tag with the kiddos, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Any type of movement can boost energy levels, improve digestion, and help maintain your weight during the festive season.
Hydrate!
It’s easy to forget to drink water during the hustle and bustle of holiday festivities, especially with all the rich foods and festive drinks. But staying hydrated is crucial for digestion, skin health, and overall well-being.
Don’t Skip Meals
It’s tempting to “save up” calories before a big holiday dinner by skipping meals, but this often backfires. You’re more likely to overeat or make unhealthy choices. Instead, eat balanced meals and snacks leading up to the holiday feast.
Get Enough Sleep
Don’t underestimate the importance of sleep. A lack of sleep can mess with your hormones, making you feel hungrier and more likely to crave the less nutrient-dense foods.
Practice Gratitude
Taking time to reflect on gratitude can shift the focus from food to people and experiences that truly matter. Express gratitude for the food, the company, and the memories you’re creating.
Don’t Stress About Perfection
Healthy indulging isn’t about being perfect, it’s about finding a balance that works for you. If you overindulge one day, don’t let it derail your entire holiday. Tomorrow is a new opportunity to make healthier choices.
The goal of this holiday season is to maintain your health, feel good in your body, and enjoy the food and festivities. Give yourself permission to indulge. Some of the delicious food and treats we enjoy may only come around once a year – so don’t miss out! Go ahead, indulge, and enjoy EVERY bite.
Michele DiCristofaro MS, RD, LDN