Time to read: 3 min
How to keep the holidays cozy and healthy
The holidays are delightful and cozy for many, but at the same time, it's the season of finding the right gifts for everyone, social gatherings, obligatory events, one too many drinks, and endless courses. Have you been mindful of your nutrition all year and just settled into a routine? With these tips, you can get through the holidays healthily without feeling like you're missing out.
1. Start your day right
Make sure you don't begin your morning with all sorts of sweets and/or fatty foods. Not only will you consume a considerable number of calories this way, but you'll also be up against blood sugar levels that fluctuate like a rollercoaster throughout the day.
You can also skip breakfast once in a while or opt for a breakfast consisting of only fruit.
2. Transform into a healthy chef
Be the one who prepares delicious and healthy dishes. Are you in charge? Great, now you have the opportunity to show that you can enjoy tasty and healthy food during Christmas. Surprise your family with vegan nachos, beet hummus, flatbread with pumpkin, oven-baked sweet potato fries, or whatever else you come up with. Yummie!
3. Negotiate with yourself
4. Exercise together
Make sure to stay active during the Christmas/holiday season. Exercising is for your health, so why stop in the last weeks of the year?
If you're not in the mood to exercise, make plans with others, join a group class, or try an app with a social element. Another good idea: arrange to take winter walks with a buddy. Exercising together makes it less likely for you to skip it.
5. Eat more protein
Proteins generally provide good satiety and keep you feeling full longer. Think of tofu, tempeh, beans, (soy) yogurt-curd, or a protein shake. If you consume more proteins during the day, the chances of overeating in the evening are much smaller.
6. Don't starve yourself
It's okay to save some calories, but keep it reasonable :) Skipping a meal every now and then is fine, but starving yourself the day before won't help and might even lead to overindulging during the Christmas dinner.
Eat light meals during the day with some fruit, lots of vegetables, proteins, and/or a salad. This way, you save calories for later in the day.
7. Fill up on the healthier options first
8. Eat slowly and savor it
This is also known as mindful eating. Be aware that you are eating and what you are eating. Eating is a natural and enjoyable activity meant for pleasure and satisfying hunger, not to see how much you can consume in one sitting.
9. Drink in moderation
Sip your drink leisurely, but try to spread your alcohol consumption throughout the evening and, if possible, keep it within limits. Can you count your drinks for the evening on one hand? Well done!
10. Relax and enjoy in moderation
Although we call it the holiday season, think of these days as festive moments. Enjoying good food and drinks is, of course, part of it, but you don't have to stuff yourself all day long. Just be mindful of it by making some agreements with yourself beforehand.
In summary
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