During the holidays, it can be very difficult to eat healthy. There are many temptations such as eggnog, pecan pie, candied yams, gingerbread and sugar cookies. The list of unhealthy holiday food goes on and on.
Throughout the month of December, we will share tips on how to enjoy the holidays without putting on unwanted weight.
7 Healthy Holiday Eating Tips from TVH Registered Dietitians
Enjoy several holiday eating tips from our Registered Dietitians Kristen Curtis, MS, RD, LDN and Sara Murray, RDN, LDN.
- Scope out the Spread: Peruse your holiday food choices before making a plate and take note of the most enticing options. This way, you won’t consume extra calories by stocking up on items you could do without. Enjoy the foods that are special to the occasion and skip the ones that are available to you on a regular basis.
- Don’t Skip Meals: Just because you plan to indulge in a holiday feast doesn’t mean you should skip the meals leading up to it. This will make you overeat and take in more calories overall. It’s also helpful to have a healthy snack before a holiday party so you’re not overly hungry going into an already tempting situation.
- Don’t Let Your Physical Activity Decline: The holiday season is the perfect time to be active with your loved ones. Maintaining or even increasing your physical activity this time of year can help prevent that unwanted holiday weight gain.
- Stay Hydrated: It can be easy to forget to drink water during the hectic holiday season, but it can help you avoid overeating so you can feel your best. It is recommended to drink six to eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
- Eat Fruits and Veggies: Focus on the abundance of fresh, nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables that are in season this time of year. For instance, squash, pumpkin, spinach, kale, sweet potato, apples, and cranberries are all in season and can add some color to your holiday festivities.
- Bring Healthy Dishes: Invited to a party? Offer to bring a healthy dish and incorporate one of these healthy holiday foods.
- Go Easy on Yourself: If you slip-up, don’t beat yourself up. Get right back to eating healthy with your next meal.
The holidays are about celebrating and connecting with the people you care about. When you focus more on the fun, it’s easier to focus less on the food.