From LEW to You: Healthy Eating During the Holidays
Healthy Eating During the Holidays
We’ve all been there - holiday dinner completed, the waistband of our pants uncomfortably snug, stuffed after indulging in delicious and rich holiday foods. Although gorging on holiday foods may seem enticing, enjoying meals without feeling like you are bursting at the seams is better for your health and will allow you to enjoy the rest of your day comfortably.
1. Don’t Starve Yourself All Day to Prepare for a Holiday Meal
Going through the whole day on an empty stomach is uncomfortable and can also lead to fatigue. By the time dinner comes around you may feel ravenous and end up drastically overeating in a short amount of time. This can lead to bloating, gas, discomfort, and sleepiness. It is best to eat frequent, balanced meals throughout the day. Eating regularly will get your metabolism going, your energy up, and keep fatigue at a minimum.
2. Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables First
Eating your fruits and vegetables first will help to fill you up and avoid eating a whole stomach’s worth of salty, greasy heavier foods. Try eating a salad topped with fruits and nuts before heading to the mac and cheese or sliced ham. This way, you’ll get to experience great holiday food but in reasonable and healthier portions.
3. Don't Feel Pressure To Eat Everything On Your Plate
If you’ve put off eating for hours just to prepare for this holiday meal, it is easy to “eat with your eyes” and put more on your plate than you can consume. If you only make it through half your meal, that is okay! Put your dinner in the fridge and have it for lunch the next day. Try adding sliced turkey or ham with cranberry sauce to your sandwich for lunch and/or adding sweet potato as a side!
Learner Equity & Wellness wishes you and your families a wonderful holiday (including delicious holiday meals!). Contact us for help maintaining a healthy lifestyle year-round.
