The holidays often bring with it an abundance of delicious food and treats, making it challenging to maintain a healthy eating routine. We've all been there in the middle of family gatherings, office parties, where you have a hondred things to choose from, and we tend to put a little bit of everything on our plates because it looks soooo delicious. Also mums are looking at you with a furious look if you left something on the plate.
However, it's possible to enjoy the festivities without overindulging. Here are ten practical tips to help you avoid overeating during Christmas and maintain a sense of balance and well-being.
1. Mindful Eating
Pay attention to each bite, savor the flavors, and chew slowly. Add breaks, chat a little, your body needs around 20 minutes to signal from stomach to brain the level of fullness. Mindful eating helps you recognize when you're full, preventing overeating. There are so many great flavours connecting to this season, taste something you haven't tried before and enjoy.
2. Plan Ahead
Before heading to holiday parties, have a light, healthy snack. This will curb your hunger and help you make more mindful choices during the event. You don't have to eat all the foods on the snack bar, choose 3-4 items and enjoy them fully.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink water throughout the day. Thirst can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, and staying hydrated can help prevent unnecessary snacking. It also helps to stay sober if you drink a glass of water with every alcoholic beverage. Avoid hangover and thank me later.
4. Portion Control
Use smaller plates and to control portion sizes. Start with smaller portions and allow yourself to have more if you're still hungry. Usually we eat multiple courses throughout these holiday meals, soups, main course, desserts, leave room for all the goodness don't fill up on the first one.
5. Balance Your Plate
Fill your plate with a variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Balancing your meal ensures you get a mix of nutrients without overloading on calories. However don't even try to count your calories, it's a time of celebration not the time of diets. Relay, enjoy your meals and the company.
6. Be Selective with Treats
Choose your favorite holiday treats and savor them mindfully. Be mindful of portion sizes and enjoy the treats without guilt. Holidays don't last for only a day, so maybe try a different dessert every day. You can also make your own and take it with you, this way you will know exactly what ingredients are in them.
7. Stay Active
Incorporate physical activity into your day, even during the holiday season. Go for a walk, stretch, excercise if you feel it, or engage in some fun outdoor activities. Play games with family and friends, good old twister can be a whole workout on its own
8. Socialize Away from the Buffet
Move away from the food area after serving your plate. Engage in conversations and activities that divert your attention from constant snacking. Participate in activities with friends or colleagues. Maybe you will have the opportunity to know someone better.
9. Bring a Healthy Dish
If you're attending a gathering, offer to bring a healthy dish you enjoy. This ensures there's something nutritious for you to eat, also if you have a special diet requirement (dairy free, gluten free, vegan, sugarfree), you can help the host with bringing options, so they don't have to cook only for you a different meal. They will be thankful, you will feel safe, and others can also taste your specialty.
10. Practice Self-Compassion
If you do overeat, don't be too hard on yourself. Acknowledge it, learn from it, and make a conscious effort to make healthier choices moving forward. Go for a walk with your family or your dog, stretch, try to move a little so you won't go to bed feeling sick with a full stomach.
Remember, the holiday season is about enjoying time with loved ones and creating joyful memories. By being mindful of your choices and incorporating these tips, you can savor the festive season without compromising your health and well-being. Happy holidays!
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