Watching What You Eat? How to Navigate Meals This Holiday Season

How to Navigate Meals This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it can also be a challenge for people who are watching what they eat. Between all the parties and gatherings, it can be difficult to stick to your healthy eating habits. But with a little planning and some mindful choices, you can enjoy the holidays without derailing your progress.

Here are some tips for navigating meals this holiday season:

1. Set realistic expectations.

Don't try to be perfect. Everyone is going to indulge a little bit during the holidays, and that's okay. Just don't let a few extra treats turn into a full-blown binge.

2. Make healthy choices.

When you're faced with a buffet table full of tempting treats, take your time and make smart choices. Choose whole foods over processed foods, and focus on fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

3. Don't go to parties on an empty stomach.

If you arrive at a party hungry, you're more likely to overeat. Eat a healthy snack before you go, so you can avoid getting too tempted by the unhealthy food that may be served.

4. Bring a healthy dish to share.

This is a great way to ensure you have something healthy to eat, and it can also help to encourage others to make healthier choices as well.

5. Be mindful of your portion sizes.

It's easy to get carried away when you're surrounded by delicious food, but be mindful of how much you're eating. Use a smaller plate, and serve yourself smaller portions.

6. Drink plenty of water.

Water can help to fill you up and keep you hydrated, which can help you to avoid overeating.

7. Don't stress.

The holidays are supposed to be a time of enjoyment, so don't stress yourself out too much about your diet. Just relax and enjoy yourself, and remember that you can always get back on track after the holidays.

Here are some additional tips for specific holiday situations:

Thanksgiving:

* Choose roasted turkey over fried turkey, and avoid the skin and dark meat.

* Load up on vegetables, and choose whole wheat stuffing over white bread stuffing.

* Have a small slice of pumpkin pie, and make sure to enjoy it slowly.

Christmas:

* Choose baked ham over honey ham, and avoid the glaze.

* Focus on the healthier side dishes, such as green beans and mashed potatoes.

* Have a small piece of fruitcake, and make sure to enjoy it slowly.

New Year's Eve:

* Choose sparkling water over sugary cocktails, and limit yourself to one or two drinks.

* Fill up on healthy appetizers, such as vegetables and hummus.

* Stay active, and avoid sitting around all night.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the holiday season without derailing your healthy eating habits. So relax, enjoy yourself, and make some healthy choices along the way.