Eating Healthy During the Holidays

In the Service of Others
December 1, 2017
Bridging the Bayous
December 1, 2017
In the Service of Others
December 1, 2017
Bridging the Bayous
December 1, 2017

You’ve heard it time and time again: All things in moderation. Never is this truer than during the holidays. With the plethora of parties comes the all-too-real possibility of overeating. What can you do to avoid packing on pounds at end-of-the-year gatherings? Strategize now to avoid weight gain during the holidays.

Plan Ahead

If you know you’re going to be making the rounds at multiple holiday gatherings and parties, consider having a healthy snack at home. If you show up at a gathering starving, you’re far more likely to make poor choices, and overeat.


Say “No” to Fatty Foods

Avoid high fat foods as much as possible. Many traditional holiday and party foods are loaded with fats, including creamy dips and cheeses. If you can’t resist, allow yourself just a few bites.

Load Up on Veggies 


At almost every holiday party, there is at least one tray filled with fresh vegetables and fruit. Load up your plate with these items first. Also, skip the dip, which is typically loaded with extra calories. Hummus is an excellent option, as is veggie salsa.

Forget Fried Foods

If you find yourself reaching for a fried chicken finger, stop! Fried foods are loaded with flavor, so the urge to binge is understandable. But if you want something equally satisfying, go for high-protein, low-fat items like shrimp cocktails, roasted turkey, or Swedish meatballs.


Avoid Alcohol

Another thing to skip (or limit): adult beverages. Many alcoholic holiday drinks, including eggnog, hot cider, and fancy mixed cocktails are loaded with empty calories. Stick to light cocktails or spritzers, which tend to have less calories.

Get Moving


The holiday dinner table or party spread doesn’t have to be a battlefield. You can and should enjoy a few indulgences. Prepare now for the holiday season, and up your exercise routine a bit. Exercising certainly helps stave off weight gain, but it also helps lower stress levels – which tend to soar around the holidays.


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