Here are some tips to help you maintain your progress over the holidays:
Prepare early- If you’ll be eating out at dinner or eating at a party where all kinds of treats will be served, be sure to eat a healthy breakfast and lunch. Add in extra protein and lower your fat intake earlier in the day.
Make a plan- Decide what or how many treats you’re going to enjoy before you go. This goes for drinks as well. Decide BEFOREHAND what you’re going to do. Set yourself up for success. If you know ahead of time what’s being served, go ahead and log it into your food diary and plan the rest of your day around it.
Enlist a buddy- Share your goals with a friend who’ll be attending with you, so you have some support!
Keep a glass in hand- Keep a glass of water so you have something to do. Many times we just mindlessly grab whatever, while we’re talking and having fun without thinking. Just having a glass in your hand can help.
Build a healthy plate: Always start by adding protein and veggies before anything else.
Practice mindful eating- Again, avoid mindlessly grabbing whatever. Instead, take time to enjoy what you’re eating. Think about what you’re putting on your plate and savor the flavors of the season.
Don’t go hungry- Eat a little something before you go- be sure you don’t head out famished.
Pitch-in? Bring something healthy to share!
Enjoy the company. Now more than EVER, appreciate the ones you’re celebrating with. The food is usually always great but the main event are the people we love. Focus on the people you’re spending time with.
Bottom line- Enjoy yourself. With a little preparation, we can indulge in some of the special holiday dishes and treats without ditching our health goals.
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