You CAN Eat Healthy during the Holidays!

Putting on the holiday pounds doesn’t have to be a holiday tradition.

Follow these steps to give yourself the gift that keeps on giving all year — good health.

Make room for your favorite foods. Whether it be a special cookie, candy, or pie, don’t skip it — and instead, eliminate other less-than-healthy foods that don’t hold such a special place in your heart (and stomach). This can include starchy/carb heavy foods such as mashed potatoes or dressing that aren’t as difficult to avoid if you know you’re going to be indulging in your favorite dessert. If you must try everything, decrease portion sizes and/or skip the second plate.

Eat your veggies first.  Fiber-dense foods are filling and will help decrease over-eating and filling up on heavy calorie-laden foods.

Eat slowly and savor every bite. Eating slowly allows your brain to process the signal that you are full.

Avoid or limit alcohol. Alcohol tends to be full of empty calories, and it sends signals to your brain that can keep you from being discretionary about your food intake

Don’t skip meals to save up for a large meal. While this common practice seems like a smart way to make room for that afternoon feast, you’re actually more likely to overeat when you’re hungry.

Get enough sleep. You are more likely to snack mindlessly if you are tired.

Find time to exercise. Break activity into smaller sections spread through the day to make it more manageable.  Exercise (such as walking) can help reduce stress and combat increased food intake during the holidays.  Get family or friends involved to help stay motivated and make some extra holiday memories.

Give yourself grace. If you slip up and overeat, get right back on track with your healthy eating and fitness routine.

Source: CDC, “5 Healthy Eating Tips for the Holidays”