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Holiday Health Tips

By Shana Hopkins, MS, CN, WAC Nutritionist


The holiday season is upon us again, and our lives are getting busier than ever. Eating healthy and keeping up a regular exercise routine may be the last thing on your mind between the social events, holiday shopping and family gatherings that occupy your time. However, don't throw it all out the window and eat to your heart's content. It can be challenging, but the best way to get through the holiday, and keep your shapely shape, is to keep the motto "moderation."

Make a commitment this holiday to stay on track and not let every holiday occasion be a feast of food. Here are some tips to get you on your way:

  • Eat balanced meals that include some protein and fat. Protein and fat help balance your energy and prevent low blood sugar. And preventing low blood sugar will help keep you from reaching for those sugary treats.
  • Do not eat sugary treats on an empty stomach. One bite can lead to many, many more. Sugar has a drug-like effect in this way. If you are going to have a holiday treat, save it for after a balanced meal when your cravings are reduced and you are more apt to keep sugary treats in moderation.
  • Do not bring sugary treats into your house. If you have children, they are sure to get their fix of sugar at their own parties and friend's houses. Not only will your body thank you, but so will your children's.
  • If you go to a party and want to sample the luscious appetizers or cookies, wait until you are about to leave. Then take a few with you on your way out. This way you are able to taste the great food without overindulging.
  • When you find yourself away from home, avoid becoming famished by taking your own healthy treats with you. Some good suggestions include raw nuts and seeds, string cheese, protein bars or fruit.
  • Limit alcohol intake. Because alcohol is a toxin to the body, it is metabolized before food in order to rid it from the body. This, however, can leave those high-fat meals in your stomach for hours before digestion, which can mean you are not digesting your dinner until 2 am when it is more apt to be stored as fat due to your lower metabolism during sleep.
  • Decide how much of something you are going to eat before you eat it. This way you give yourself limits and boundaries. This can be a very helpful way to keep treats in moderation.