Cookies, cakes, and carbs, oh my! 'Tis the season for the temptation to backtrack on all the progress you've made. You deserve to have happy holidays, but how can you keep working toward your goal while enjoying yourself?
Use these 5 holiday healthy eating tips to make merry and stay on track:
Tip #1: Think Fuel for Fitness
To keep on top of your goals, you're still going to exercise over the holidays, even if you're traveling. You might have to swap out a couple of gym days for a jog or a dance party with loved ones, but you can squeeze calorie-burning in.
So, eat like it! Aim to fuel your body for fitness with plenty of protein. As a bonus, protein helps you feel full so you're less likely to binge on other macronutrients like carbs or fat.
Tip #2: Know What to Avoid
With so many foods available during the holidays, it's wise to know which options are worst for you. When you're at a party or get together, check out all the foods offered before adding any to your plate to be sure you make the smartest choices.
Avoid:
- Red meat
- Full-fat dairy
- Sugary, fatty condiments and additives like sauces
- Pre-packaged desserts
Instead, opt for:
- Lean meat
- Fat-free or healthy alternatives to dairy
- Natural flavorings, like fruit or herbs
- Fresh treats in small portions
Tip #3: Find Healthy Recipes for Your Favorites
Whether you're hosting for the holidays or just making some favorites during the season, use healthy alternatives.
- Low-fat dairy instead of full fat
- Club soda instead of wine
- Roast veggies instead of candying them
- Make stuffing and sides fresh at home
- Opt for whole wheat when you eat bread or rolls
Tip #4: Use a Tracking Tool
With so much going on over the holiday season, it's easy to lose track of what you're eating. Download a tracking tool to count calories, balance macronutrient proportions, or even just to help yourself remember what you've eaten each day.
Tip #5: Plan So You Can Be Present
Impulse eating is more likely to happen over the holidays if you don't plan ahead. For example, you're likely to overeat when dinner isn't served on time or you have too many events back to back so you don't get a real meal.
Planning ahead can prevent these kinds of detours from your diet. Meal planning can help you maintain control and stay on top of the proportions of macronutrients you eat. Our FREE custom meal planning guide is a great tool for this!
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