Season’s Eatings: Healthy Habits for the Holidays

It’s holiday season- that time of year that’s full of friends, family, FOOD and parties! Did someone say food?! It’s a busy time of year and common for ‘healthy eating’ to fall to the bottom of the list of to-dos. 

Here are my top tips for healthy eating habits to get you through the holidays this year:

Give veggies a leading role

You’ve heard me say this many times before… Aim to make half your plate vegetables when you can, and include them as snacks (with a dip if you choose – my favourites are hummus and tzatziki) throughout the day.

Eat those veggies first

While we’re on the subject of veggies, eat them first! Before digging into the turkey, mashed potatoes and delicious savoury stuffing, try to have at least a few bites of the veggies on your plate. They are jam-packed with fibre and nutrients. 

Don’t skip meals

Skipping meals (like breakfast and lunch) to “save” calories for later, usually leads to overeating. Instead, plan for a healthy breakfast and lunch, and even an afternoon snack, on days you are celebrating later with family or friends.

Alternate between water and alcohol

Try having a glass of water between drinks to help minimize your intake of alcohol and keep you hydrated. 

Take 10 before going for seconds

After finishing your first helping, take a 10-minute break before going in for seconds. It takes a few minutes for your stomach to register the “Oh, I’m getting full” signal to your brain. 

Prioritize moving your body 

Consider including some winter physical activities into your holiday festivities. Sledding and skating are two activities that the whole fam can enjoy. I would count shoveling snow as one too!

All the best to you and yours this holiday! Stay safe, stay warm and stay healthy!

 

Jenn Giurgevich is the founder of Spark Nutrition & Health, a virtual nutrition consulting business.
Visit www.sparknutritionandhealth.ca for more information.