It’s hard to believe that the end of the year is already upon us, and here we are in the thick of holiday celebrations with Santa himself. It’s a magical time to make memories with family and friends, but many of us are wondering how we can enjoy the magic without losing sight of our healthy eating habits. The good news? It’s totally doable.
Eating healthy during the holidays doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun. But with so many parties and foods out of the norm, it can’t hurt to have a few tricks up your sleeve to stay on track with your healthy habits this season.
In this article, we’ll talk about ways to enjoy the holiday festivities while staying true to your health and wellness goals. We’ll break down the science behind mindful eating, blood sugar management, and other tips for staying healthy during the holidays and as we head into the new year.
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A Memo: What Is Mindful Eating?
Mindful eating, the art of being present while you eat, is knocking diet culture on the back burner. And in this season of indulgence, it’s the real MVP of healthy holiday eating tips. So often, we get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of life that we rush through our meals and end up overeating, throwing our blood sugars out of whack, or missing out on important nutrients altogether.
During the holiday season, try to practice mindful eating at mealtimes to avoid eating empty calories. Go ahead and have that slice of pumpkin pie at the holiday party, but actually sit and enjoy it. Take in all the senses and savor every bite. And, of course, listen to your hunger cues and stop when you feel full. (Those hunger cues are key for weight management and blood sugar control, but we’ll touch on those healthy holiday eating tips later.)
Blood Sugar vs. Holiday Season
Ever wonder what Santa’s blood sugars must look like on Christmas Eve? Christmas cookies and other desserts are everywhere this time of year, and overindulgence can wreak havoc on blood sugar management efforts.
With so many food choices to navigate during the holiday season, it’s important to prioritize healthy eating habits. For example, avoid skipping meals to “save up” for a holiday feast. Skipping meals makes you more prone to overeating and can make it difficult for your body to keep your blood glucose under control.
Instead, plan ahead and know what foods you’ll enjoy at the holiday party and what foods might serve you better on another day. And, of course, keep a glass of water handy to ensure you stay hydrated during the celebrations.
