How to Eat Healthy During the Holidays

‘Tis the season of hope, joy, generosity and, sometimes, overindulgence. Delicious treats are everywhere and can be tough to resist when they're shared by coworkers, family and friends. If we're not careful (or simply distracted by the festivities) we can come dangerously close to consuming our entire daily caloric needs in one sitting.

Committing to a healthy eating strategy will help you avoid temptation at this season's parties and family gatherings. It's also a great way to ensure you start the new year feeling your best. Here are a few dietitian-approved tips for staying on track in the coming weeks:

1. Don't arrive on an empty stomach.‍

Try not to show up to a holiday meal or party with an empty stomach. Skipping meals typically leads to eating more than if you had eaten something earlier in the day.

2. Check out your options.

‍You're more likely to eat less when you look over all your options first. So scout out the buffet table before loading up your plate.

3. Hang out with someone who eats slowly.‍

Find someone who you know takes longer to finish their meals and follow their pace. Eating slowly makes it easier to eat less and still feel satisfied.

4. Move away from the food!‍

If you linger around the buffet or dinner table, chances are you'll continue to nibble. Aim to be more than an arms length away from the food whenever you aren't eating.

5. It's okay to enjoy your favorite holiday treat.‍

Better yet, share the holiday spirit by splitting your favorite treat with someone else.

It's exciting to celebrate the holidays with food, fun and those you love, but taking a little time beforehand to focus on your self-control and health goals will go a long way toward keeping overeating impulses at bay. So enjoy the amazing flavors of the season (in moderation).

By AdventHealth