The holidays are here. See below for some tips to navigate through the next few weeks in a healthy manner. Remember this is a time to see family and friends, for gift giving and celebration.
1) Schedule in your eating plan: Have a healthy snack before your next gathering (think nuts/seeds, yogurt, fruit or veggies...), make sure that you eat routinely throughout the day to minimize overeating and choosing unhealthier options later on. Remember to prioritize your favorite foods and enjoy them in a smaller
portion (aka it's okay to have that cookie!).
2) Overflowing buffet tables and open bar: Take a look before diving in. Keep to a small plate and aim for the vegetables first. Wait at least 20 minutes before going back for a second plate. Try picking a space that is farthest away from the
tables, it’ll make it a little harder to go for seconds. Try alternating water or another 0 calories drink like seltzer with your alcoholic drinks. Aim for no more than two alcoholic beverages per event.
3) So much to do with so little time: Continue to exercise- look into #NEAT (non exercise activity thermogenesis). Examples are cooking or cleaning. Try to schedule routine exercise. At a gathering, be the first to help clean up, motivate others to go for a walk with you, or head to a dance floor and shake those calories off!
4) Keep up with your rest. Not sleeping enough can cause weight gain and add holiday
stressors. This becomes a recipe for poorer food choices, binging, and more stress. Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep nightly.