Parker’s 10 Healthy Holiday Tips

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10 Healthy Holiday Tips

Provided by Tammy Fogarty, Ph.D., RD, Dean of Health & Human Performance

It is the time of year again when celebratory cocktails, savory dishes, and indulgent desserts are all around us. I must admit, I LOVE the holidays. I love everything about it! The food, family, good belly laughs, shopping, and the anticipation of the upcoming holidays. It is a great time of year! But, with all the excitement, it is easy to overindulge during the holiday season.

As a nutritionist, I receive a number of new clients wanting to shed the extra holiday pounds come January. Therefore, I am excited to share my Top 10 Healthy Holiday Tips, so weight loss is not part of your New Year’s Resolution.

 10 Healthy Holiday Tips! 

  • Be realistic. Holidays are not the best time of year to plan for weight loss. Instead, focus on maintaining a healthy weight. 
  • Schedule time for physical activity. Put it on your calendar! Schedule time to get active, and do not let anyone cancel your appointment … including yourself! Moderate daily activity can partially offset excess calories from holiday splurges. Keep in mind, the more you eat, the more you need to increase your physical activity. 
  • Don’t skip meals. Eat breakfast! It truly is the most important meal of the day. Long periods of time without food leads to weight gain over time. Keep your metabolism going by eating small meals and snacks throughout the day. 
  • Eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. Practice mindful eating techniques. 
  • Do not go to the party hungry. Eat a healthy snack or meal before you arrive, so you do not overindulge in unhealthy options. High fiber foods will leave you feeling fuller for longer periods of time and will curb cravings for holiday treats. 
  • Don’t drink your calories. Holiday cocktails are festive and loaded with calories. A 3.5-ounce pour is about 250 calories. Add a mixer or juice, and you have a 400-calorie drink. 
  • Bring a healthy dish to the party. Be the salad go-to person that your friends rely on to bring a healthy dish. Yes! You be that person who always brings something healthy. 
  • Take the focus off food. Who says you must make holiday cookies? Make a holiday sugar scrub instead. Share the gift of soft skin instead of sugary treats. 
  • Count your bites. Most appetizers are approximately 60 calories per bite. Five bites = 300 calories. Bite small or less often. 
  • Get plenty of rest. Decreased amounts of sleep result in food cravings that may lead to weight gain.

Happy Healthy,

Tammy Fogarty, Ph.D., RD, Dean of Health & Human Performance