Holiday Nutrition

The holidays are approaching and are a busy time of year. For many people, the holidays mean spending time with loved ones and celebrating the joys in life, like cooking, and eating traditional foods. You can still enjoy the holidays and enjoy the delicious foods without having to compromise your goals. Check out these helpful nutrition tips that can keep you motivated and reach your goals.

1.     Don’t skip meals.

Attending any event on an empty stomach can make you feel famished. This can lead to overeating due to increased feelings of hunger. An excellent pre-party snack can be complex carbs with protein and a fat. Example: apples and peanut butter or turkey, cheese and crackers.

2.     Choose drinks wisely.

High calorie drinks add up- alcoholic and sugar sweetened beverages. These beverages can set you back: sodas, eggnog, wine, beer, mixed drinks. If you have alcohol have a glass of water or seltzer between drinks.

3.     Visit with people.

Socialize away from food to avoid mindless eating. Distance helps the heart stay healthy and can keep you from overeating.

4.     Be mindful.

Eat until you are satisfied not stuffed. Eat slowly and check in with your body. It is important to have a mind-body connection. Take about 10 minutes before going for seconds. It takes a while for your stomach to signal you are full.