The holidays are soon approaching. We all look forward to spending time with
family and friends, enjoying holiday parties, and eating lots of great food. But, we all know, it can be challenging to eat healthy during the holiday season. There are food temptations all around us, So, how can you be successful? What will you do to stay healthy this holiday season?Suggestions for success at a holiday celebration
- Eat a healthy breakfast on the day of the party.
- Have a breakfast that includes plenty of protein. Some breakfast ideas include:
- Scrambled eggs with fruit and toast
- Yogurt and cereal
- 1 Tbsp peanut butter on whole wheat toast
- Cereal and milk
- Meal Replacement
- Do not skip breakfast and save the calories for later that day. This will lead to overeating at the party; you will be very hungry, the smells and sights of all of the food will increase your hunger, and you will likely make unhealthy food choices.
- Try to exercise the day of the party. You will burn extra calories and will feel good about yourself.
- Do not go to the celebration hungry. This will lead to overeating on the appetizers and snacks. Instead, have a healthy 100 calorie snack that contains protein to help satisfy your hunger. Also, drink a glass of water before going to a party.
- Prepare healthy food items.
- If you are going to someone’s house, offer to bring over a vegetable platter and a healthy side dish for dinner. This will allow you some healthy options.
- Have a salad at the beginning of the meal. You can add cranberries and walnuts to give it some added flavor and color.
- Limit yourself to one alcoholic drink. After that drink seltzer water, unsweetened iced tea, or water.
- At a holiday party, choose 1 or 2 things to indulge in (in small portion sizes) and walk past the rest. Moderation is key. For dessert, again, try to eat fruit salad or just choose one dessert and have a small piece.
Meal Ideas for Thanksgiving
- Turkey is often the main dish provided at Thanksgiving dinner. Turkey is high in protein and low in fat. Choose the white meat and be sure to remove the skin. Three ounces of white turkey breast will provide 120 calories and 1 gram of fat.
- Instead of gravy on your turkey, use cranberry sauce. This will provide moisture on the turkey without the added fat from the gravy.
- Prepare a healthy salad to eat at the beginning of the meal.
- Serve sweet potatoes, and top with sprinkled cinnamon.
- For dessert, serve fruit salad with whipped cream. Or prepare baked apples with cinnamon. Add a small amount of low fat ice cream. These are healthier dessert items.
What to do around the holiday season
- Be sure you are eating breakfast daily. Skipping meals will lead to overeating throughout the day and lead you to choosing unhealthy snacks that may be around your workplace.
- If eating out more frequently, choose salads with grilled chicken or fish. They will likely be healthier than other food options.
- Try to bring lunch to work during the holidays. This will provide a healthier lunch when lots of temptations are available.
- Bring healthy snacks (look at the 100 calorie snack list). Bring fruit, vegetables, and granola bars to work rather than being tempted by the vending machine or candy around the office.
- Exercise, exercise, exercise. If you are traveling to visit family or friends, go for a long walk and get some fresh air. If you are at home, be sure to continue or increase the intensity and duration of your regular exercise routine. Burning extra calories will help to reach your weight goals.
- Continue to drink plenty of water. As the weather gets colder, it is often easy to forget to drink water. It is often more comforting to drink lots of coffee to stay warm. Instead try herbal decaffeinated tea to keep warm, and drink water with your meals.
Enjoy the Holidays!
