Healthy Eating for the Holidays

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Although we won’t be experiencing the same temptations of holiday parties, community events and large family get-togethers this year due to Covid-19, it may be even more challenging to keep our health in check when we’re stuck at home with nothing to do.

The last thing we want to do is add onto the ‘Quaran-15’!

It’s going to take more than will-power to make sure your holiday season is healthy and doesn’t completely sabotage your fitness goals. Let’s face it – when a table full of goodies is staring you right in your face and you know this may be your last chance to indulge in your favorite holiday treat until next Christmas, it’s difficult, if not impossible, to stick to your program.

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Instead, you have to create a plan, establish some guidelines and use a little “give and take”. 

For example:

I’ll drink 2 glasses of water for every glass of wine.

I will fill my plate with vegetables and eat those first.

I will use a smaller plate.

I will make sure that I’m drinking half of my body weight in ounces of water daily.

I will eat regularly throughout the day so I’m not starving at any point.

I will make sure that I engage in conversation away from the table of food.

I’ll make sure that my dinner contribution is a healthy choice so I know I’ll have something to rely on.

I will put my fork down in between bites and eat more slowly.

I will remove all leftovers and treats from my home.

I will enjoy one treat or share a treat with someone.

I won’t eat it unless it’s a big indulgence. I won’t waste calories on something I could take or leave.

I will encourage everyone to go for a walk after our meal and before desert.

I’ll go for a run or hit the gym in the morning so I feel great and will be less likely to over-indulge.

Post-meal or when I’m baking, I will brush my teeth or chew gum.

I will make new traditions. Instead of baking cookies for the holidays, we will make ornaments, wreaths or crafts.

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Remember, you deserve to look and feel your best.

Remember that saying “no” to some things means saying “yes” to things that are more important to you, like your overall health.

Finally, keep in mind that it’s ok to lighten up on your strict fitness and nutrition plan over the holidays. It may help give your mind and body a rest and help to motivate you to work even harder in the New Year. Even elite athletes have off seasons so don’t beat yourself up about indulging a little here and there – just don’t completely let everything go and force yourself to have to start from scratch in the New Year!