Part of what makes the holidays “the most wonderful time of the year” are all the seasonal dishes and treats we get to enjoy right about now. From the sweet to the savory, the holiday season is a foodie’s fantasy.
Unfortunately, it can prompt two contrasting reactions from people: either overindulging or skipping the flavorful fun in the name of good health. Mount Carmel Registered Dietitian Amy Lewis, MS, RD, LD isn’t a fan of either tactic. She believes that creativity and moderation are the keys to healthy holiday eating and offers these five tips for a more practical approach to yuletide nutrition.
1. Focus on adding, not subtracting
It’s easy to get caught in the mindset of replacing all your meals with healthy alternatives. Instead of trying to make everything healthy this holiday season, though, try focusing more on adding healthier options, like fresh seasonal vegetables, to your holiday dinners.
2. Use healthier ingredients
Instead of substituting entire meals for the sake of eating healthier, try swapping out specific ingredients in your holiday recipes. Use egg whites rather than whole eggs, brown rice instead of white, multigrain pastas, and low-fat cheeses. You’ll still be able to enjoy your favorite holiday foods but in a healthier way.
3. Listen to your body
The stomach has an amazing mechanism that lets your brain know when it’s getting full. By eating slowly, drinking water in between bites, and waiting 10-15 minutes before getting seconds, you’ll allow your body to signal when you’ve had enough to eat. So don’t mark anything off-limits, just take your time, consider your portions, and eat until you’re satisfied but not stuffed.
4. Control emotional eating
For a lot of people, the holidays can be as stressful as they are enjoyable. And with all the extra food and treats around, it can be easy to eat as a coping mechanism. And that’s not the healthiest. Instead, try to be more mindful about eating. Recognize the moments where you’re eating because you’re hungry and those when you’re bored or stressed. That can make a big difference when it comes to a healthier holiday.
5. Don’t let guilt control you
We all stray from the healthy eating path sometimes. Especially during the holidays. When you do, don’t be too hard on yourself! Just refocus and try again with your next meal.
Healthy eating isn’t about absolutes. It’s about making good choices more often than not and better choices when you can. So when you can this holiday season, take a measured approach to your diet and be sure to incorporate exercise as well. You won’t just eat better, you’ll feel better. And that can be one of the holidays’ best benefits.