The holidays are in full swing! Family gatherings, office parties, happy hours… Food and alcohol is at the center of every event.
So, how do we keep the scale from going up with the weekly buffets?
Here are a few tips that will help:
#1: Don’t go to parties hungry.
Make sure you get a good amount of protein in early in the day, and before you go. LOTS of protein and veggies early will balance out the fatty, higher carb selections you may make later. Let’s face it, most parties don’t prioritize protein. YOU can. Often times I hear people say “Oh, I’m not eating a thing until the party later.” This leads to terrible decisions, and overeating later because you show up STARVING. Setting yourself up.
#2: Bring a healthy snack.
If it’s a potluck, be that person that brings the huge salad, the veggie platter, the fruit tray, or that new recipe from Pinterest you’ve wanted to try. It’s okay to bring a healthy option, and trust me when I say that others will appreciate it!
#3: Don’t hang out by the appetizers.
Get a small plate of things you really want, and walk away, friend. Charcuterie boards are all the rage, and also often filled high calorie snacks like chocolates, dried fruit, and cheeses that add up to 1000 before you even know it.
#4: Limit alcohol.
The more we drink, the more we eat, then we drink more and all good decision making goes out the window. Holidays can be stressful, let’s find other ways to manage it…see number 5.
#5: Don’t skip your workouts.
At a time of year when stress is high and food is everywhere, get your butt to the gym. Start your weekends with a great Saturday workout with friends, go for a run with the fam before dinner, take a nice long walk with family after. Exercise is one of the best ways to manage this time of year!
#6: Hydrate.
Sodium is lurking in most holiday platters and dishes, and you’ll be a little dehydrated from those martinis at happy hour. Start your day with 8 oz of water before anything else, while you’re waiting for the coffee to brew, and you’ll be ahead of the game! Keep a water handy all day long to help stay hydrated! This is a good habit to keep all year long! So, start it now!
And remember, the holidays are about family, spending time with loved ones, traditions, and being thankful for all that we have. It doesn’t need to be about food.
Stay focused!
And Happy Holidays!