Cookies, Cakes and Candies! Oh My!
Why people fall into such bad eating habits around the holidays is easy to figure out. Everywhere we go someone is gifting us with cookies, cakes, chocolates, wine and beer. Refusing would be rude, right? Sigh. Let’s not forget about the work parties, the friend parties and, of course, the school party. Then we travel to the grocery store and see all the wonderful treats in colorful packages tempting us. “It’s the holidays,” we tell ourselves, “a time for celebration with our friends and family.” Justifying why we should just give in and forego all the hard work we’ve put in throughout the year is too easy!
Food, friendship, family and festivities will always be major parts of the holidays—as they should be. However, keeping up during this stressful time requires lots of energy. That’s why eating right, exercising and getting plenty of rest are so important throughout the season. Here are a few more tips for making it through!
- When attending a party, don’t arrive on an empty stomach! Don’t skip a meal thinking that allows you to indulge at the party. Rather, eat your usual healthy meals throughout the day and fill up on fruits and vegetables before the party.
- Offer to bring a healthy dish to a party.
- Alternate alcoholic beverages with water when at parties.
- Continue your exercise program.
- Moderation is the key: Eat smaller portions when you’re out.
- Eat slowly, especially at a sit-down dinner. If it’s appropriate, leave the table when done.
- Remember the people! You are at a party to visit and socialize, not eat.
- If you don’t love the food, don’t eat it.
- Chew gum instead of eating.
- Keep your hands busy, talking or carry a bottle of water to drink.
- Wear snug clothes around your waist.
- Fill up at the party with vegetables and fruit instead of the heavier snacks.
Most importantly, enjoy the holidays. Plan time for something you truly enjoy. Attempt to incorporate healthy recipes into your meals and don’t restrict yourself from your favorites. When you find the balance, your body will thank you.
Melanie Yunger is a local wife, mother and nurse practitioner who will never give up sweets at the holidays but will incorporate many more fruits and vegetables!
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.