Tips for Eating Healthy During the Holidays
![Family enjoying a meal together](/sites/default/files/styles/width_731/public/2021-11/GettyImages-1177096544.jpg?itok=c6WJXbEc)
With the holiday season comes festive celebrations almost always involving food. Lots of food. You don’t need to deprive yourself of delicious food. Eating healthy during the holidays is a challenge but having a plan in place before the holidays begin can help.
10 Holiday Eating Tips
- Be selective – Spend your calories wisely on the foods you love instead of trying everything
- Pause before seconds – It takes a few minutes for your brain to signal to your stomach that you are full. Try to take a 10-minute break before going back for seconds.
- Take a stand - Standing next to the food at a party can make you more likely to snack without thinking about it. Try to physically distance yourself from the food table.
- Don’t go empty - Make sure to eat something before attending a party so you don’t arrive needing to eat right away.
- Be careful with alcohol – alcohol increases your appetite and reduces your ability to control what you eat.
- Veg out – Veggies are a great go-to snack at home or at a party
- Make it healthy - Whether cooking for yourself at home or bringing a dish to a gathering, make it healthier by limiting your use of salt, butter and other ingredients high in saturated fat
- Remember what is most important – while food is an important part of the holidays focus on family and friends
- Stay active – physical activity is important all year long but during the holidays staying active can help you counteract the additional eating and help you reduce stress.
- Get your rest – Not getting enough sleep can make you more likely to crave high-fat, high-sugar food. Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help protect against mindless eating.
Get more details on the importance of good nutrition.
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