There are a ton of opportunities during the holidays to indulge in unhealthy eating. We look forward to consuming certain decadent foods exclusively during this season of the year. We might also spend more of our days and nights attending gatherings, dinners, and parties where there is a lot of food and drink. It should therefore not be shocking that a lot of people put on a few pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
There’s no need to abandon your commitment to eating healthily during the holidays, even though temptation may be stronger this time of year. Furthermore, there’s no justification for denying yourself the foods you enjoy. To maintain a healthy weight while adhering to a diet is to practice mindfulness and moderation. These pointers may also be useful:
- Make choices. Parties and dinners will provide an abundance of food, but you don’t have to consume it all. Leave the rest behind and eat what you enjoy or don’t get to eat often.
- Sample it. Rather than starving yourself of foods you truly desire, have a small portion and enjoy the flavor. Just keep in mind that the food is always best when it is first consumed.
- Move aside. You may be more prone to reach for more food if you are seated or standing close to a table that is loaded with food. Get up, take a step back, and start talking so that your attention isn’t solely on the food.
- Avoid arriving hungry. When you’re hungry, you tend to overeat or make bad eating choices. Before you arrive, have a small snack that consists of a combination of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein.
- Be mindful of the calories in liquids. Alcoholic beverages have calories that add up quickly, and after a few cocktails, you might be more likely to give up on your healthy eating habits. Drink a glass of water or seltzer in between each drink to control your alcohol intake.
- Consume mindfully. Your brain takes a while to register the fullness of your stomach. Take a break if you’re considering having seconds before determining whether you’re truly still hungry.
- Modify recipe formats. If you are the host, try preparing your favorite dishes with less salt, sugar, or fat. Online, there are a ton of nutritious holiday recipe options.
- Don’t arrive without anything. Make a dish or two-bringing offer. In this manner, you can be sure that there will be options that align with your diet. Your host will also be grateful for the offer.
- Most of the time, eat healthfully. It won’t negatively impact your diet to indulge at one party or eat more than usual at one dinner. Just immediately resume your course.
- Concentrate on the important things. Holiday gatherings revolve mostly around food, but spending time with loved ones is what matters most. If you remember that, some of the allure of the foods in front of you may fade.