I think we can all relate to feeling a little frazzled during the holiday season, so much to do and so little time. It’s important to fix that festive frazzle before you run out of steam…… all you need is a little bit of savvy planning. I have created a list of my top 10 Tips that have served me well during the holidays.
Your Survival Guide to Healthier Holidays
- Exercise: Most people have a little extra time available over the holiday season. Take this opportunity to develop a regular exercise regime. This will help to burn off the excess calories and fat consumed over this period. It will also get you into the habit of exercising, and you can continue the regime after the holiday season is over.
- Eat regularly: If you are going to an event don’t starve yourself all day in anticipation. You’re in danger of arriving there feeling ravenous and eating everything in sight. Instead, have some healthy snacks throughout the day. By doing this, you’ll be less likely to over-indulge when you are out. Remember to eat before an event to fuel your body, and always chew well, aim for 25 chews per bite.
- Plan ahead: Leading up to your event make sure you create a healthy eating schedule: eat every 3-5 hours, and get at least 7- 8 hours of quality sleep. Eating regularly will keep your metabolism elevated and getting enough sleep will help prevent overeating the next day and giving into cravings.
- Survey your food choices: When you arrive at the party, ask for a glass of water with lemon and wait at least 30 minutes before eating. This will give you time to relax, get comfortable in your surroundings, it will also give you time to notice the food items and what your choices are enabling you to make a wiser decision.
- Balance your meals & use a plate: Use a plate to keep track of what you are eating. Don’t be tempted to fill your plate with those rich calorie-laden foods. Instead have a little of everything including fruit and vegetables, fill your plate with the healthy options first, leaving a little room for those treat options.
- Stock up on healthy snacks: Always have healthy snack options available to avoid temptation, some good examples are: nuts (unsalted walnuts or almonds), seeds (unsalted pumpkin or sunflower), fruit and raw vegetables such as carrots or celery, very easy to prepare and transport.
- Moderate alcohol intake: Alternate your drinks, switch between alcoholic beverages and water. Don’t forget that alcohol does contain calories and a lot of them. Drinking water can help starve off cravings, give you satiety and help ward off those holiday headaches the next day. Remember to limit the calorie-laden egg-nog. There are plenty of lower-calorie beers and wines available that can help, so opt for the healthier version whenever possible. Also watch your holiday coffee drinks, don’t turn your coffee into a dessert.
- Make your own dish: Volunteer to bring an appetizer or a favorite dish, this way you are guaranteed to have at least one genuinely healthy option.
- Focus on the event: Try socializing with friends, family members or colleagues and concentrate on mingling and not just eating.
- Mindful thinking: Treat the holidays as one day, not one month. Get back into your healthy regime after the event.
Finally, enjoy the holidays and don’t deprive yourself just keep some of these tips in mind!
Thanks for reading and keep well.
I would love to hear about some of your tips for surviving the holidays.