It is the season of Christmas parties whether at work or at home and of course ringing in the new years. All of these events are usually accompanied with great food, great friends, family and alcohol. If the thought of all the drinking and eating of the holiday season stresses you out, don't let it. Hopefully by now we have all started a healthy routine that will carry us not just through the holidays but through the rest of the year as well. If you have not started a healthy regiment there is no time like the present. Healthy lifestyle practices should not be abandoned or forgotten because we get caught up in the spirit of the holiday season. In fact it should be revisited and renewed. Look at what you are doing or not doing now and set some realistic goals in place for the coming year.
For the most part we know what to do to improve our health: eat more fruits and vegetables, eat less processed products, drink plenty of water, and limit sugary drinks and sodas and exercise. With countless number of treats and our hectic holiday schedule, this can become challenging during the holiday season.
Do not despair. Follow these simple tips to continue eating healthy, get some physical activity in and reduce extra stress.
1. Do not show up to any event hungry, if you are attending a holiday party it is wise to eat a small well balance meal prior to arrival. Hunger leads to over-indulging.
2. Drink wine and other alcoholic beverages in small amounts. We all know alcohol is loaded with calories so limit your intake.
3. Replace traditional ingredients like white sugar with more natural ingredients like raw cane sugar (brown sugar), honey, maple or brown rice syrup or use apple sauce, bananas, and even 100% natural juices to add flavor to treats without the sugar.
4. Nix the margarine, and the butter use natural oils such as olive, sunflower, canola or another vegetable variety in moderation.
5. Try new and healthier recipes for your main courses and treats. Visit websites like: www.bhg.com/recipes/ , www.foodandwine.com/cooking_guides/healthy or www.foodnetwork.com/healthy-eating.
7. Indulgence in small amounts is fine. Savor every meal and every treat in moderation.
8. Remember what the holiday is all about, sharing with family and friends don’t let the stress of hectic schedules, and counting calories make you lose sight of all the things you have to celebrate and be thankful for.
9. Plan ahead. Planning will help avoid unnecessary stress, which can lead to overeating and indulging in unhealthy foods.
10. Hydrate every day with water, dehydration can cause headaches, and tiredness. Drinking up to 8 glasses will keep you energized and focus on all your holiday activities.
Whole Body Nutrition wishes everyone a happy, healthy and safe holiday season!
