Tips For a Healthy Holiday

Tips for a Healthy Holiday

So here you sit, halfway through December and you are thinking that you have already blown your diet at a couple of holiday gatherings. Maybe you consumed too many unhealthy snacks and cocktails and now you feel like you might as well throw in the towel on your healthy habits. Of course you plan to start your healthy lifestyle all over again after New Year’s, like everyone else. Well, did you know that the average American gains between five and ten pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day? You do not have to fall prey to unhealthy temptations and you do not have to gain weight during the holiday season this year! On this week’s Wellness Wednesday we will discuss 5 Tips for a Healthy Holiday.

Here are a few helpful tips to keep you healthy during this festive season:

1. Do Not Skip Meals
It seems like it would make sense to skimp on lunch to prepare yourself for an evening dinner party, but if you go this route you will arrive starved and will undoubtedly overeat. The best plan of action is to just eat normal throughout the day. This will keep your metabolism in check and you will be less likely to overindulge. To take this one step further, have a light snack of vegetables or fruit before a party to help curb your appetite.

2. If you must Splurge, Splurge Only On Special Foods
The party spread looks amazing and with all the enticements, it is so easy to pile your plate full. Pause and take a step back and survey the entire buffet or dinner options before making your selections. Be sure to choose your most favorite foods and avoid items that you do not absolutely love. Keep your plate balanced by adding vegetables and fruits alongside your few special splurges. You could even bring your own healthy dish to the holiday gathering!

3. Drink Juice Everyday
Juicing is a great way to stay on track during the holiday season. Strive to drink at least a minimum one glass of juice each day. This will help you stay healthy and give you the nutrients you need that are not found in holiday appetizers and oh those tasty cookies! Green juices are especially good for balancing out blood sugar, if you made the mistake of havng too many sweets, and their nutrients will help keep your energy up.

4. Celebrate Without Food
In our culture, from party platters to cookie swaps, every celebration revolves around food. Now is the time to take the focus off of food and make a new family tradition that is non-edible. Plan game nights, do crafts with your kids, host an ornament exchange, and have conversations. Try focusing on relationships instead of food this year.

5. Make Time For Exercise
Staying active throughout the holiday season can help prevent weight gain and also relieves stress. Even if you have to take a break from the gym due to holiday travels and plans, it is important to stay active in other ways. Take brisk walks; go on a walking tour of decorated homes or light displays, even cleaning burns calories. Be sure to get yourself back on track with your regular routine as soon as the celebrations end.

Follow these 5 Tips For a Healthy Holiday and you’ll be doing what most people won’t this holiday season to ensure a healthy one and please, remember juice strong to live long!