Holidays are all about joy, family, and delicious food. With so many delicious treats around, it’s important to make smart choices to keep our bodies happy and healthy. This is especially important for those trying to manage health conditions such as heart disease or diabetes. This time of year can be quite challenging with holiday parties and events.
With a dash of creativity and planning, you can be successful in sticking to your health-oriented goals. Studies have shown that, by implementing simple strategies, you can enjoy celebrations and take care of your body at the same time! Here are three tips to get started to celebrate the holidays with practical snacking and eating strategies. 
Navigating all the tasty holiday foods can be tricky. To keep things balanced, start by adding colorful veggies to your plate. Mix them with protein, such as turkey or chicken, for a satisfying and healthy start to your holiday meal.
For a lighter or meatless option, foods like yogurt, chickpeas, lentils, deviled eggs, hummus, and fish can give you the protein you need. Don’t forget some carbs too! The goal is to move away from labeling foods “good” or “bad” and towards balance and enjoyment.
What about sweet treats?
Sweets are a big part of holiday fun, but too much sugar can lead to fatigue. It’s okay to enjoy sweet treats during the holidays, but try to also be creative with healthier options. A fruit tart can be light and fresh, and a dark chocolate mousse can be rich and delicious. Sometimes, it’s not just about the treats but what you eat with them. Pair your favorite cookie with Greek yogurt or have a handful of unsalted nuts with that slice of pie.
What about snacking?
Often, people skip meals or snacks to “make space” for larger and festive meals. This can lead to overeating later in the day and establish a pattern of restrict-binge. Stay fueled throughout the day and avoid skipping meals.
If your big holiday meal is later in the day, be creative with your snacks. Make your own trail mix with whole-grain cereal, nuts, and some festive dried fruits for a crunchy and satisfying mix. If you want something warm, try air-popped popcorn with a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg – a light and tasty snack that feels like the holidays. And don’t forget to drink water – aim for at least four cups every day.
If you want to cut back on sugary or alcoholic drinks, try flavored sparkling water, herbal teas, or hot cocoa made with unsweetened cocoa powder and a bit of honey.
How many times have you gotten lost in conversation, only to notice you’ve chowed down on a plate full of appetizers? Eating mindlessly is an unfortunate habit but something we can improve upon by being aware and changing our environmental cues. Avoid eating while distracted or talking to others for long periods of time. Familiarize yourself with the hunger/fullness scale and practice in your day-to-day. Use this scale to check in with yourself halfway through meals. Choose a plate size that is appropriate for appetizers, entrees, and desserts.
While it’s a given to enjoy holiday treats, it’s important to also include nutritious meals and snacks. By mixing treats with good-for-you options, you can enjoy all the tasty flavors of the season while keeping your body healthy. Awareness is key but it takes practice! Pick a day this week where you can begin practicing skills for success. If you want to make healthier eating more attainable, meal prep sessions can help. It is worth the effort and saves you time during the week.
This holiday season, let’s celebrate with joy and smart choices. From colorful veggies at the feast to creative and crunchy snacks, there are lots of ways to have a great time without forgetting about our health.
Check out the Treo Wellness platform for some great recipes you can use for your holiday table! Contact Treo Wellness at info@treowellness.com to learn more!
© 2024 Treo Wellness.
