Helpful Tips for a Healthier Holiday

By Nicolette Casano

The holidays can be a stressful time, especially if you’re trying to lose weight. Everyone has a favorite dish they look forward to at each holiday, so eating around the holidays can be especially tough. Below are some tips that will help you look forward to the holidays and embrace the foods offered.

Holidays are best enjoyed while maintaining your weight. It is hard enough to lose weight without the addition of holiday foods. If you have a fear of gaining weight during this time, it is important to eat until satisfied. That stuffed feeling after a holiday meal is what makes us dread each holiday. Choose foods that are your favorite and only served at this holiday. For example, during Thanksgiving, go for the mashed sweet potatoes with marshmallows on top instead of the regular mashed potatoes. This goes for appetizers, dinner, and desserts.

So now you’ve picked your favorite foods, but you’re feeling guilty about straying from your diet? Look at what is being served and create a balanced plate. Include your favorite foods, but make sure all of the food groups are present on your plate. Portion sizes are also important. During the holidays, food is usually served family style. This is where all the food being served is located in the center of the table waiting for people to take help themselves. It is important to remember to stick to the one serving rule. There is a better chance you won’t have that stuffed turkey feeling after just one serving.

 Alcoholic drinks can also contribute to excess calories and feeling overly stuffed. Alcohol can also influence your food choices. Drink more water throughout the day and save your glass of wine or bottle of beer for dinner.

Lastly, focus on the company and the conversation. Catch up on lost time instead of staring down the food. Make these holidays something to look forward to by playing board games, going for a walk after dinner, or having a catch outside. The holidays will be something to look forward to and a day of fun with your friends and family.

Additional Resources:
Holiday Eating Tips From MyPlate from Clemson
Holiday Placemat from Washington State

Nicolette Casano was an intern with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk Country’s Family Health and Wellness Program during the Fall of 2013 and is currently a Dietetic Intern at LIU Post. She is also studying for her Master’s in Nutrition at LIU Post. She grew up on Long Island and received her BS in Nutrition from LIU Post in September 2013.