The holiday season is a time filled with celebration, togetherness, and, of course, indulgent food. Between family gatherings, festive parties, and traditional meals, it’s easy for healthy eating habits to slip. We get it! But with a little planning and mindfulness, you can still enjoy the season without derailing your goals. That’s why this month, one of your favorite Tewksbury gyms is here to share some tips on how to stay on track with your eating habits while savoring the spirit of the holidays.
Plan Ahead
Before heading to a holiday event, plan your meals for the day. Eat a balanced breakfast and lunch that includes lean protein, whole grains, and fiber-rich vegetables. This will help curb hunger and reduce the temptation to overeat at a gathering. Bringing a healthy dish to share ensures you’ll have at least one nutritious option available.
Practice Portion Control
Holiday meals often come with an abundance of food options. Instead of trying to sample everything, be selective with your choices. Focus on smaller portions of the dishes you truly enjoy. Using a smaller plate can help prevent overeating while allowing you to enjoy your favorites without guilt.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to confuse thirst with hunger, especially when surrounded by food all day. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps manage hunger and prevents overeating. It also helps you feel more energized, so you can focus on enjoying time with loved ones rather than feeling sluggish after a big meal.
Savor Mindfully
During the holidays, take time to savor your meals. Eating slowly not only helps you enjoy the flavors, but it also gives your body time to register fullness, making it less likely that you’ll overindulge. Put down your fork between bites, engage in conversation, and enjoy the company around you.
Get Moving
Stay active to balance out the extra holiday calories. Whether it’s a morning walk, an at-home workout, or even dancing at a party, physical activity can help you maintain energy levels and support your healthy habits.
Healthy Alternatives to Enjoy
When it comes to finding balance, try swapping some traditional holiday foods for healthier alternatives:
- Mashed potatoes ➔ Mashed cauliflower
- Sugary desserts ➔ Fruit salad or baked apples with cinnamon
- Heavy casseroles ➔ Roasted vegetables or a light vegetable gratin
NDB Fitness | Tewksbury Gyms
While we’ve shared some tips on how to stay on track with your health goals, it’s important to remember to keep everything in moderation and avoid cutting things out entirely. You are allowed to enjoy some of your favorite foods this holiday season!
Ready to make the first step towards a healthier you? Join one of Tewksbury’s favorite gyms, NDB Fitness! To explore our class schedule and membership options, we encourage you to check out our website or give our team a call today.