Happy Holidays, Everyone!
The end of the year is always a great excuse to eat, drink, and be merry with your family and friends. Unfortunately, however, if you don’t watch your intake, those extra drinks and treats can stick with you for months after the holidays.
While you should definitely celebrate and enjoy yourself, here are five big tips to keep in mind when managing the extra calories!
1. Don’t drink your calories!
Stay CLEAR of all the sugar-loaded “holiday” cocktails and opt, instead, for a wine spritzer or light beer. This will allow you to drink more without overloading on the calories. Yup, you heard that right! Drink more!
2. Bring a healthy dish to share.
Holiday parties are usually chock-full of unhealthy dishes. Anytime you get an invite, offer to bring a fun fruit or veggie tray. Even if you are the only one that eats from your dish, you’ll still have one healthy option to load up on!
3. Stay Hydrated!
Regardless the occasion, you should already be drinking 8oz of water every hour. Because people tend to stuff their faces with sodium-rich foods during the holidays (guilty as charged!), a majority often feel sluggish or hungry when they actually may just be thirsty or dehydrated.
4. Eating rule: Veggies > Holiday Treats > Fruit
Pack half of your plate with fresh vegetables and fruit—and no, green bean casserole does not count. Begin by filling your tummy with the greens and interspersing them with small portions of your favorite holiday eats. Then, finish everything off with a piece of fruit to trick your sweet tooth!
5. Wear your skinny pants!
I didn’t think of this one until one of my clients texted me Thanksgiving morning saying she was wearing her “tight pants” to avoid overeating. While we all want to wear our strechy jeans and yoga pants during the holidays, wearing something tighter can help you feel full faster.
I would love to hear your tips for staying healthy during the holiday season! What helps you might inspire others!
Eat, Drink & Be Merry!
Peace & Love,
Emily Burkhardt
@thehealthyhustle
Cut Food Photography via Beth Galton