By Colleen Bailey, MS, RDN, LD
This time of year, we often get the question, “How am I supposed to eat during the holidays if I’m avoiding the ‘all or nothing’ mindset?” Our Dietitians are here to help! Check out these 10 tips to help you to incorporate gentle nutrition.
My Top 10 Tips to Navigate Eating During the Holidays:
1.Don’t restrict beforehand to “save up your calories”
Include regular meals and snacks earlier in the day so you don’t go into the party hangry & feel the need to eat everything in sight.
2. Prioritize mindful eating
Take a plate of food, rather than grabbing from the bowl; put your fork down in between bites; ask yourself how physically vs. emotionally hungry you are.
3. Allow yourself fun foods, guilt free!
Completely depriving yourself from your favorite holiday cookies will likely leave you thinking about them long after the party is over. Eat the cookie & move on.
4. Try to create gentle balance
Can you choose the veggie pizza to add some extra fiber? Is there a fruit salad you can add to your plate? Can you bring a veggie tray as your appetizer contribution?
5. Stay hydrated
It’s easy to get dehydrated during the holidays. Try alternating alcohol (if you choose to drink) with water & keep up with your fruits & veggies.
6. Don’t force movement if it doesn’t fit!
It’s ok to take a rest day, week, or month if you need. But if you’re craving it, find ways to move that enhance your holidays (i.e. flag football, sledding, ice skating).
7. Be mindful with your alcohol
There is NO amount of alcohol that is beneficial to our health! Try opting for a NA seltzer with a lime as your next drink instead of the gingerbread martini.
8. Set realistic goals & be gentle with yourself
Avoid extreme ideas, especially when your environment may vary. Ask yourself, “is this something I can do for the rest of my life?” If not, try something more practical.
9. Reflect on your eating & drinking after the event
Stay curious, and not judgmental. Did you go to the party ravenous so it was hard to control yourself? Instead of seeing this as a “mistake”, view it as a lesson to learn from.
10. Don’t overthink it!
The most important part of the holidays is to celebrate with loved ones. Even your Dietitians don’t want you obsessing over every bite you take. You’ve got this!
Does any of this resonate with you? If so, let's get started! Working with a Registered Dietitian helps with understanding what is best for you body and it's specific needs. Whatever your goals are, we can help. Schedule a Discovery Call to learn more about how working with a dietitian can benefit you!
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