5 Tips to eat healthy this holiday season!
We’re coming up on a joyful time of year. Holiday after holiday bringing families and friends together from all over! This is also the busiest time of year, on top of normal activities and grocery shopping, you have the added gift shopping and party shopping. No matter how much you plan out, you’re always on the go! Keep these tips in mind while preparing your own holiday meals and attending holiday parties.
While out and about: EAT before you shop! We all know how tempting the smell of Auntie Anne’s pretzels is. Have a good complex carb loaded snack with protein and unsaturated fat before you go out - like apples with peanut butter or turkey with cheese on whole-wheat pita bread. This will curb your appetite and keep you away from the treats at the mall!
While at home: Go for more soups this season, particularly veggie loaded, broth based soups. Avoid creamy soups to save on the calories! Roasted veggies are delicious as a side item, and easier to prepare than mashed potatoes, anyways! Lastly, if you must have cheese, go for light cheeses like goat cheese and feta. Avoid your heavy cheddar and bleu cheese.
Family get togethers: BYOVT! Bring your own veggie tray, and you’ll definitely have a healthy snack to fill you up! When it’s meal time, scan what food is available by circling the table once or twice. Choose your favorite 2-3 items instead of filling your plate.
Treats on the holidays: Baking is so much fun - but if you can control what you bake, choose the lighter options! Gingerbread men, peppermint bark, and thumbprint cookies are all light! Avoid the dense goodies like cheesecake bars, brownies, and pies! If you can’t avoid them, at least pick the smallest piece!
When you’re out at parties: Distance yourself from the appetizer table so you don’t keep grabbing more snacks! If this is a real problem for you, pop in a mint or some gum, you won’t be as tempted!