The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and—let’s face it—a lot of food. But that doesn’t mean your health goals need to be tossed out like leftover fruitcake. With a little planning and mindfulness, you can navigate festive gatherings and still feel great. Here’s how:
1. Eat Before the Event
Arriving hungry is a recipe for overindulgence. Have a small, healthy snack before you head out, like veggies with hummus or a quick protein shake. This takes the edge off hunger and helps you make more mindful choices.
2. Know Your "Game Plan"
Decide ahead of time what balance you want on your plate. A good rule of thumb:
Half your plate: Non-starchy veggies (salads, roasted veggies, etc.).
A quarter: Lean proteins (turkey, chicken, shrimp, or beans).
A quarter: Indulgent items (mashed potatoes, stuffing, or dessert).
This strategy lets you enjoy the treats you love while keeping things balanced.
3. Bring a Dish You Love
Guarantee there’s a healthy option you’ll enjoy by contributing something yourself. Ideas:
A colorful veggie platter with a homemade Greek yogurt dip.
A hearty salad with seasonal ingredients.
Lean protein options like turkey meatballs or grilled chicken skewers.
A lighter dessert, like fruit skewers or a low-sugar baked treat.
4. Survey Before Serving
Before grabbing a plate, take a quick look at all the options. This way, you can prioritize the dishes that genuinely excite you rather than piling on everything out of impulse.
5. Watch the Liquid Calories
Drinks like eggnog, punch, cocktails, and sugary sodas can sneakily add up. Instead, opt for:
Water or sparkling water with lime.
Herbal teas.
If drinking alcohol, stick to 1–2 drinks and go for lighter options like wine, vodka soda, or spritzers.
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