Healthy Holiday Indulgence Tips

Many people worry about overindulging in food during the holidays, feeling anxious about the additional pounds on the scale that may come with it, and feel guilty for simply eating traditional holiday foods they enjoy. And there is bound to be plenty of delicious and tempting food included at every holiday gathering. However, with some planning and intention, you can be healthy, maintain a balanced diet, and indulge in your favorite foods. With a mindful approach using the following tips, you can enjoy your favorite holiday treats and still feel your best. 

Allow Room for All Your Favorite Foods  

• When you deny yourself certain foods, you may end up craving them even more. This could lead to unintentional overeating when you finally allow yourself to eat it. 

• Focus on choosing foods that you really love and savor every bite.  

• Some foods only appear on the holiday table once per year. Focus on enjoying those and pass on items that you can eat any time. 

• Plan ahead. If you are worried about maintaining a balanced diet, make or purchase something for a holiday gathering to share with others so you always have a choice that fits your overall diet. 

Don’t Skip Meals to “Save Up” for an Event 

Many of us are at risk of overeating at some point during the holiday season. However, if you don’t eat all day because you are saving your calories for an evening dinner party, you may be doing yourself a disservice.  

• Arriving at a party hungry may make you more likely to overeat.  

• Eat balanced meals and snacks throughout the day to manage your appetite. 

• Include plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains to keep you nourished and satisfied.  

Look at Your Diet Over Time 

No matter how often you are splurging on your favorite holiday foods, remember that it is how we eat over a longer amount of time that affects our health.  

• One day, or several days, of excessive eating and drinking isn’t going to make or break your health.  

• Consider your diet over the span of several days or a week and try to keep it balanced.  

Stay Hydrated and Move Your Body for Overall Health 

• Dehydration can lead to mental and physical fatigue, which makes getting through this hectic, and sometimes stressful, time even more difficult. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day and drink water before heading out to events.  

• Continue your regular exercise routine and choose activities that you enjoy. Instead of over-exercising trying to burn off extra calories, appreciate movement for how it supports your physical and emotional wellbeing.  Remember, exercise is a proven way to control weight gain, reduce stress, and control blood sugar levels.