Trying to eat Healthy over the Holidays does not have to be punishment

Stick to the basics
Focus on the foods that are traditional and whole or made from scratch. Avoid canned or processed foods, for these usually have additives that are not healthy. Look for the obvious warnings, large portions, over eating, salty or sweet snacks and too much alcohol. Turkey is good, and so is most of the trimmings as long as you’re aware of the way it was prepared. Simple is better when it comes to portions, stick with what you know. Watch out for the same foods that you would normally stay away from, i.e. greasy, fried, salty, sugary and fatty foods etc.

When you eat is important too
If you eat too early, you will eat again in the evening. To avoid eating too many meals eat in stages, as if it were a lunch, then a dinner. Keep your snacks in between meals healthy, for example; carrots sticks, celery, lo salt chips and salsa etc. drink plenty of water and this may help you to feel full and avoid over eating.

Desserts are NOT the enemy
With desserts you do have to be aware of the amount you eat and what you eat but there is a plan. Avoid eating too many. A trick I use to eat a piece of fruit before trying grandma’s cheesecake, you will take a smaller piece and then be satisfied. You can also be selective among the table full of sugary delights. Pick out one you really like and eat that, don’t experiment and try everything.


Keep moving and get off the couch
Sure the game is on and I will be watching too!...but grab up the kids and go play outside. Play some football, throw a Frisbee, get the gloves out and play catch. If that’s too much, take a nice evening walk as a group. It’s okay to sit around too but don’t slump on the couch, play some games and stay active. Laughter burns calories and as I have seen once a group starts playing some of these “scene it” type games on the TV everyone is jumping and screaming in total laughter. Usually a good time is had by all and it burns a lot of energy.

Most of all, don’t punish yourself, food is good for you!...good food is just better. Enjoy the festivities and all the taste bud delights. It is a day of giving so lets leave the calories on the table and not TAKE them with us LOL!!!! Have a great Holiday Season!!!!!