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5 Strategies to Stay Healthy During the Holidays

December 26, 2017
Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash

Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash

The holidays are coming to a close, the new year is almost here, and now is the perfect time to check in and see how your healthy habits are holding up. It may be the season of warm beverages, sweet treats, and festive holiday meats, but small tweaks and simple swaps are all it takes to enjoy the festivities without overdoing it. Plus, it will feel great to start 2018 already on the right track!

Foodstand can help! Here are a few things to keep in mind as you navigate your New Year’s festivities:

Check in with yourself. Don’t forget to stay mindful and listen to your hunger cues. Having one cookie doesn’t mean you need to eat five just because they’re in front of you. After all, moderation is one of the most important keys to good health. Check out these tipss to help you keep each bite as mindful as the last.

Make healthy swaps. Whether you’re whipping up a pre-party snack or preparing dessert for family and friends, don’t forget that tasty, satisfying food or drink doesn’t have to be unhealthy if you’re careful with your ingredients. Serve seltzer with pomegranate seeds instead of soda, nosh on crispy chickpeas instead of chips, and make cookies with almond flour to add protein and cut the refined flour. Check out these swaps for some additional ideas!

It’s ok to say no…in a nice way! Feeling pressured by well-intentioned food pushers? Have some answers in your back pocket to decline without offending, such as “I will in a bit,” or “thank you, but I’ve had one already!” If they’re being super pushy, communicate that you’re feeling full or that you don’t want to spoil your appetite, and they’ll most likely respect your boundaries.

Stay hydrated! Don’t forget to drink lots of water—at least 8 glasses a day! This will help you keep your cravings in check while allowing your body to function properly. Particularly if you’re at a party and choose two have a drink or two, don’t forget about trusty H20. Ask for sparkling water in a wine glass with a slice of citrus so you still feel festive without overdoing the alcohol. Check out these tips to keep hydration fun and easy.

Fill up on fiber. Make it a goal to fill half your plate with fibrous fruits and veggies, and eat that before reaching for the heavier stuff. You’ll likely find that the fiber will fill you up, and you’ll feel lighter at the end of the meal.
With the help of these tips you’ll be able to finish the holidays off strong, and welcome 2018 with a renewed sense of confidence in your healthy habits—habits that will last throughout the year! Want some additional tips? Check out 5 Foods to Start and Stop Eating in 2017, How to Love the Holidays, and Heart-Healthy, One Bite at a Time. And as always, feel free to visit www.thefoodstand.com for plenty of free guidebooks on how to stay healthy year-round, one habit at a time.

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