Healthy Holiday Eating Tips from a New York Dietitian: Manage Your Health and Waistline
You can celebrate the holidays without leaving healthy eating behind. Enjoy the food and festivities. Most foods, even special holidays “treats”, can be part of a healthy eating plan. The key is moderation and mindfulness.
Long Island Dietitian’s Recommendations for Healthy Holiday Eating:
1. Don’t skip meals.
Skipping a meal to save the calories for a “holiday splurge” usually backfires. When you are starving you overeat unnecessarily. Be sure to start your day with breakfast.
2. Choose your indulgences wisely.
Select what you love, perhaps a holiday favorite. Focus on what is special and what you really want.
3. Spend most of your time socializing.
Talk more, eat less.
4. Avoid standing or sitting next to a table with food.
You will prevent mindless eating and therefore you will eat less.
5. Choose drinks sensibly.
Alternate each alcoholic drink with a glass of water.
6. Before you take a plate at a buffet, survey all the food options.
Decide what you want to put on your plate, then take the plate and select your meal.
8. Don’t feel guilty.
If you overindulged, don’t beat yourself up. Just make sure your next meal is healthy and you incorporate exercise into your routine.
A large part of holiday traditions involve food. There’s no need to skip out on favorite family meals and treats. Implement these holiday suggestions and enjoy the season.
