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We are slowly, but surely, approaching the holiday season! The aroma of pumpkin spice and peppermint flavors will soon be taking over coffee shops and filling grocery aisles, getting us excited for our favorite upcoming holidays. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Years are on the horizon, which means endless holiday parties, and family get-togethers. And what are these events without our favorite tasty treats?

It is almost too easy to put on some holiday weight, so here are four tips on how to stay healthy and not pack on a few pounds this upcoming season.

Eat your greens!

Before filling your plate with the main dishes, start off with a salad. Salads are very nutrient dense, meaning that they have very few calories relative to nutrients they provide while being high volume, so they begin to fill your stomach so you don’t overeat on something less nutritious.

Drink your dinner?

Stick to one or two glasses of wine. Alcohol is highly caloric, so establishing that you will only have a glass or two allows you to enjoy your night, and at the same time, ensures that you aren’t consuming too much.

Intuitive Eating

Practice intuitive eating. Intuitive eating is being aware of your hunger signals. It empowers mindful food choices without feeling guilty. It is perfectly normal (and encouraged!) to indulge during the holidays. Have that slice of pumpkin pie! Have your grandma’s famous mac and cheese! You can satisfy your cravings by having a little bit of everything, or a bigger portions of your favorite item.

Here’s a helpful tip: try to start eating when you’re at a 3 out of 10 and stop when you are at an 8 out of 10, where 1 is so hungry that you can faint, and 10 is feeling so full that you might explode.

Don’t Stress!

The holidays are a time of happiness, giving, and excitement, so try not to stress. Stressing that you overate not only causes you to actually gain weight, but isn’t doing your mental health any favors. Try not to ruminate if you overeat. Know that once you go back to your normal eating habits and regular schedule, you will likely return to your normal weight. Instead of worrying, go on a post-meal walk to help clear your mind and aid with digestion.

 

Written by GUADS guest writer Emma