Healthy Holiday Eating Tips

The holidays are a time of gathering with your family and friends. Sadly, many people result in overeating and gaining weight that may build up over time. Here are a few tips to prevent weight gain during the holidays!

1. Plan time to exercise.

Exercising not only burns fat and calories, but it also releases a chemical called endorphin
that will help in reducing stress. You may feel the burn for a moment, but the results will make it worth it.

2. Be picky.

If you don't love it, don't eat it! Go for the special holiday dish and skip the foods that are always available. Also, don't think it's your responsibility to try everything on the menu.

3. Trim the trimmings. 

Cut back on unnecessary condiments such as gravy, dressing, butter, and whipped cream. These sneaky foods don't do much for the food but a lot for the waistline. Get a little less of each serving. Don't try to stuff yourself on one dish, but have smaller servings of each one and then go back for more of what you like most , looking back at #2.

4. Skip the snacking.

If you usually like to snack between each meal, you might want to stop during the holidays. Although this saves more room and calories for the big dinner, try to not stuff yourself but still be satisfied.

5. Check it out.

Survey all your choices and pick what you want the most. Be sure to scrutinize each dish and make wise decisions, or you will be more prone to overeat.

6. Fill up on healthy foods the first round.

Start off your meal with healthy fruits and veggies before diving in to the other dishes. This will fill you up and decrease the unhealthy food intake. 

7. You don't have to finish your plate. 

Yes, you hear your parents tell you to finish all the time, but in this case, don't do it if you don't want/need it! Not eating those last scraps could save you calories that will build up later on.

8. Bring a healthy dish.

If you're assigned to bring something for potluck, bring something healthy. This will encourage you and others to eat a little healthier.

9. Eat slowly.

While you are eating, chew slowly and appreciate the taste of your food. Don't devour it and scarf it down!

10. Wear snug clothes.

This seems like a strange tip, but it works! Your mind will be busy focusing on your stomach rather than overeating. 


Happy holidays! ---Emily: The Girly Girl Department <3